PERSHORE are just four points behind leaders Ludlow after defeating Chaddesley Corbett 4-1 in West Midlands League Division Two.

The dominant hosts go into their mid-term break with the best display of the season under their belts.

Pershore capitalised on the extra space offered in midfield and their patience held after 15 scoreless minutes to take the lead.

Gareth Rushton created a yard of space to deflect Toby Whiting's thunderous 20-yard pass into the roof of the net.

Pershore took their foot off the gas and were soon punished by an equaliser.

Whiting saw a penalty flick saved but he made amends minutes later, finding Rushton who steered the ball home.

Stalwart Richard Lisle, in his last game before emigrating to Australia, capped an excellent second-half display with the third goal from a short corner.

Whiting completed the scoring in similar fashion to confirm a well-earned three points.

Unbeaten league leaders Bromsgrove beat Pershore seconds 3-0 but the visitors showed plenty of fight.

Two scrappy goals put Bromsgrove ahead in the first-half with Pershore's defence stopping to question an umpiring decision for the first.

Andy Wright, James Massingham and Andy Tayler produced battling displays.

Bromsgrove snatched an early third goal in the second period from a good move.

Pershore hit back with good hockey and have a fine mixture of youth and experience to lead them into the second half of the season.

Pershore thirds drew 3-3 with county rivals Evesham who started with 10 men.

But the arrival of their 11th man inspired the visitors to take the lead, despite the determination of Pershore's Mark Bulford and Gary Stephenson.

Graham Handley was a thorn in Evesham's side and Gary Tucker equalised with a fortunate cross-shot.

Twice more Evesham grabbed the lead only for Pershore to level on both occasions through Tucker and Gavin Pugh.