Hockey

REDDITCH Ladies had a successful start to their season, reaching the semi-finals of a tough tournament at Cannock.

With many of the sides in higher leagues, this was a perfect test and Redditch came out of it with many encouraging signs for the forthcoming league campaign.

Redditch drew 1-1 with Rising Brook in their opener, Jo Stafford scoring a fine late equaliser.

They followed up with two decisive victories against Warwick 2-0, Angela Taylor scoring both goals, and Derby 2-0 with Taylor again on the scoresheet along with Becky Southwell.

Redditch were narrowly beaten 1-0 by Blossomfield in the semi-final, with Anna Stafford having a fine shot saved off the line in the final minutes.

Fielding a 2nd XI side for the first time for nearly a decade and with an encouraging blend of youth and experience, Redditch began their season with a good 1-1 draw against Hampton.

They took the lead through a goal from a short corner from Helen Hartiss early on.

Gail Meads and Suzette Davenport were strong at the back but Hampton still netted a late equaliser.

Redditch Hockey Club will start their junior training sessions on Sunday from 9.30am on the new Bromsgrove Road Astroturf. The coaching is open to boys and girls aged 11 and over.