PLUCKY Stourport could not prevent University of Exeter rising to the top of Slazenger English League Men’s Conference West despite a spirited performance in a 4-2 loss.

The Wyre Forest side, who remain sixth in the table, went ahead through promising England Under 21s player Chris Griffiths.

However, they were stunned by three goals in the space of four minutes from Tom Carson, Toby Roche and Ian Haley.

Stourport, though, battled back and Luke Edwards scored following a penalty corner in the 29th minute.

In a close second-half, the hosts prevailed when Carson increased their advantage.

Stourport Women suffered a rare loss, 2-1 to Leighton Buzzard in Midlands Division One.

Despite being under pressure, Stourport took the lead through a breakaway goal by Hannah Goss.

Their good work was undone when they conceded a goal from a short corner just before half-time.

Stourport stepped up a gear in the second-half but could not take advantage of a host of goal-scoring chances.

They were made to pay when Leighton bagged a late winner.

The seconds got among the goals when they beat Droitwich 4-0 in Worcestershire League Division One.

Caroline Siddell, Claire Dodd (2) and Fran Baron hit the back of the net.

Stourport Thirds edged Bromsgrove Seconds 1-0 in Division Two with Holly Lashford on target.

The fourths went down 6-1 to Droitwich Seconds with Kate Bailey grabbing a consolation.