POWICK consolidated their second position in the Worcester Saturday League premier division with a sound victory over a Lamb and Flag side who have enjoyed mixed results this year.

LAMB & FLAG 2, POWICK 5

Powick welcomed back Kevin Downes, following his year in Australia, and his work-rate soon shone through. Despite playing into a strong wind, Powick looked comfortable until after 15 minutes a defensive lapse saw the home side take the lead with a shot that just evaded Steve Newman's despairing dive.

Newman then made an outstanding point-blank save following Michael Pearson's slip in the box.

With 15 minutes left, Powick began to keep the ball and Dean Drinkwater, Stu Harvey and Jamie Abba all registered worthwhile efforts.

The equaliser came when good link-up in the midfield saw Downes race clear and slot home. Phil Skilton was magnificent under pressure from the high balls played into the Powick area and defensively Powick got stronger as they adjusted to the blustery conditions.

As the half closed out, successive excellent deliveries from corners by Pearson put the home side under pressure but Powick were unable to capitalise.

Playing with the wind behind them, Powick came out full of energy and soon took the lead when a long through-ball saw Stu Harvey outstrip the defence and calmly finish. Shortly after this, Drinkwater sent Abba through and he lobbed the static goalkeeper.

With tails up, it was no surprise that Harvey bagged his brace to put Powick in command. Excellent skill by Dale Humphries led to a break-away move that saw a superb Drinkwater pass play in Jamie Badham, who made no mistake. With the game effectively won, Powick slackened off and the home side once again threatened.

In the final minute, a clumsy challenge allowed leading striker Bennet to dispatch a consolation goal from the resulting penalty.