ALCESTER RFC captain Andy Flynn saw his troops finish the season with a flourish at the weekend.

Derby day rivals Shipston were beaten 10-6 away from home as Alcester secured five wins from their last eight league matches.

The Kings Coughton side were assured of a place outside the bottom three last week after fellow strugglers Claverdon lost their final league game.

And with the pressure off, an Alcester side destined for the drop as late as January, finished with a win.

The match marked injured skipper Flynn's last competitive game in charge.

"I think everyone's pleased to see the end of the season," said Flynn.

"We finished with championship form rather thane relegation and there is hope for a more successful time next season.

"We need to get our injured players back and get some competition for places.

"But I will be stepping down as captain because it is just not the same from the sidelines."

Alcester are set to finish their season with two friendly fixtures but Saturday's trip to Bournville (ko 3pm) is in doubt, scheduled just hours after the club dinner on Friday night.

Flynn said a handful of long-term absentees are returning to fitness but would not return so near the end of the season.

Back Scott Carmichael is fit after a broken leg, fly half Matt Gwynn is recovering from knee ligament damage, flanker Charlie Kay has recovered from a broken wrist and Tom Heneghan will be back next season after a year off through university commitments.