VILLAGERS looked to win back some pride on Sunday after their 6-0 thumping last week by the same team in the Worcester League division three.

DOVERDALE ARMS 3, VILLAGERS FC 1

But with two players coming back into contention, there was another set-back in three players failing to show.

Strangely though, the first-half started well with Jamie Plant and Nathan Wanklin combining well in central midfield and getting back to make some timely interceptions. Plant also going very close with a 30-yard effort.

Chris Broad on the wing looked to play the early ball every time and the contrast seemed to be working well until, with 15 minutes gone, Doverdale scored against the run of play.

Mark Tilley came close with a 20-yard free-kick but it started to look like it would not be the Villagers' day.

Doverdale took the initiative and began to combine well themselves up front and through midfield.

Mark Wild again looked comfortable at the back and the defence was unlucky to concede a second goal, which Sadi Ali got fingers too.

Villagers began to regain the momentum and with Plant becoming more involved again, Neil Morgan scored from just inside the box.

Shortly after Morgan's goal Carl Regan rode a tackle wide on the right and got himself a shooting position from eight yards, his effort went just wide.

Villagers left a throw-in short on 75 minutes and the opposing striker ran on to score with ease past a despairing Ali.

Paul Knivett had an exceptional game at centre back.

On Sunday, Villagers entertain Northwick Sports and with both Tom Smith and Phil Dyde returning, will be looking to gain a good result.

Thanks to match sponsors E&E Engineering Ltd.