REDDITCH bounced back from a cup disappointment to put themselves within reach of the top three.

Nev Mason's side bowed out of the Birmingham League Knockout competition to Premier Division side Halesowen in last week's quarter final but continued their good run in the league with a winning draw against Wednesbury.

Redditch were invited to bat and Chris Gibson made 19 before retiring hurt together with Richard Young to put on 31 for the first wicket. Then Danny Protherough with an effective 55 with watchful support from Ben Davis, 41 not out, put on 99 for the second wicket and Marcus Busfield, 13, enabled Redditch to reach 153-3.

In reply, Wednesbury were never at ease against the Redditch attack of Neville Mason, 4-34 and John Lostitch 1-39 and slumped to 71-6 off 30 overs. They batted out the last 9 overs, however, to force a draw.

After a tough time last season, the Birmingham Two West side sit fifth in the table having lost only to top two Wroxeter and Smethwick.

Redditch entertain Wheaton Aston on Saturday (1pm start).

The visitors lifted themselves off the bottom at the weekend with a first win of the season against Penn, but with just three points separating Redditch from third placed Shifnal, Mason's side will fancy their chances.

Gibson is doubtful along with fellow bat Brian Powell who was a late withdrawal at the weekend.