HOCKEY: Redditch Ladies may have lost their friendly 4-1 at Stourport but they put in an impressive display against Midlands League opposition.

Emma Preston went close to opening the scoring before Stourport struck the opening goal against the run of play.

The home side added a second before Angela Taylor found the net with the faintest of deflections from a fierce ball into the circle from the hard-working Becky Southwell. But the umpire did not see the deflection and the goal was not awarded.

Taylor then had a dubious penalty flick saved but Redditch's pressure was finally rewarded when Jo Stafford converted another penalty stroke.

Stourport added another before the break and although the visitors pressed hard and worked the goalkeeper, it was the home side who added to the scoreline, making it 4-1 late on.

Redditch are at home to Dudley in the cup on Saturday (noon).