LUCTONIANS can take a major stride towards the Midlands One runners-up spot with victory over the present second-placed side, Whitchurch on Saturday.

The Mortimer Park team, who continued their fine run of form with victory at Spalding last Saturday, can move to within four points of Whitchurch, with three games in hand, with a home win.

Meanwhile, Malvern and Bromsgrove will be hoping to kick start their seasons after a disappointing end to 2002. Both clubs tailed off after solid starts and Malvern, on the back of three consecutive defeats, will be confident of adding to Spalding's problems. Bromsgrove, however, face a tough test at Leicester Lions as they bid to overcome their crippling injury list.

Another big game sees Midlands Three West (North) leaders Kidderminster Carolians visit third placed Stoke who are closing the gap on the Marlpool Lane side.

Fixtures

Midlands One - Leicester Lions v Bromsgrove, Luctonians v Whitchurch, Spalding v Malvern.

Midlands Two (West) - Hereford v Old Laurentians.

Midlands Three West (North) - Stoke v Kidderminster Carolians.

Midlands Three West (South) - Evesham v Keresley, Ledbury v Southam, Old Coventrians v Pershore.

Midlands Four West (South) - Droitwich v Berkswell & Balsall.

North Midlands One - Bromyard v Upton, Redditch v Worcester Wanderers, Stourport v Veseyans.

North Midlands Two - Bredon Star v Old Griffinians, Tenbury v Bloxwich.

North Midlands Three - Chaddesley v Stourbridge Lions, Dudley Wasps v Greyhound.