KIDDERMINSTER Carolians just missed in a 13-12 defeat at home to Sutton Coldfield.

Within five minutes, they had conceded a try and a penalty to trail 8-0.

Mat Rigsby was unlucky not to score for Carolians when he was pushed into touch over the line.

A great passage of play by the backs and forwards alike saw the side again come close but the Sutton line held firm.

However, with Ben Turner running strongly and the KCs forwards able to drive the opposition back, Nathan Small touched down after a strong run from the base of the scrum.

KCs had the opportunity to draw level with 15 minutes to go but Stooksbury's penalty faded just wide of the posts.

Chris Pinner and James Whitehouse then combined well to release Eddie Ross but the final pass was adjudged to be forward.

With time running out, a poor cross-field kick was caught by the Sutton winger who out-sprinted Turner to the line.

KCs were not finished and another excellent back move allowed Pinner to combine with Quinn and Whitehouse and Ross out-stripped the defence to score.

With Stooksbury's conversion good, KCs were within a point but the referee's whistle blew for the end of the game to leave them agonisingly short.

Next week Kidderminster Carolians entertain Old Yardlians at Marlpool Lane (2.15pm).