FOURTH-placed Pershore narrowly missed out in a 3-2 defeat at fellow high-fliers Bromsgrove in the Worcestershire Women’s Hockey League Division One.

The hosts took an early lead before Pershore settled and levelled through Kate Adams slotting home Emma Gardner's cross from the top of the circle.

Kelly Jones and Emily Capaldi defended well but Bromsgrove found a way to score just before half-time.

Pershore pushed hard in the second period and the unmarked Zoe Nicholson smashed home another fine Gardner pass.

But Bromsgrove quickly regained the lead and denied Pershore despite their fine team display with Capaldi and Heidi Deacon starring.

Pershore visit leaders Harborne seconds on Saturday.

The men's firsts return to action at home to Atherstone Adders on Saturday in West Midlands Division Two.

Pershore seconds beat Kidderminster 4-0 in a friendly through Ali Sanderson (2), Tom Quantrell and Steve Quantrell.

The thirds lost 5-2 at Market Drayton thirds in West Midlands Division Two despite taking the lead through Simon Gardner.

The pacey hosts replied with two quick goals only for Vince Crowley to equalise with a fine strike.

However, Market Drayton scored three second-half goals with fine finishing.

Evesham host Barlaston in West Midlands Division Two on Saturday after going down 5-1 at leaders West Bromwich. Matt Haines scored.