HEAD coach Ian Bletcher hailed Kidderminster Carolians’ defensive qualities after their vital win over Droitwich in the Midlands Two West (South).

KCs ground down their rivals for a top-three finish and strangled the life out of their attack at Marlpool Lane, as they played out a hard fought 14-3 win.

Victory means they have a six-point lead over their county rivals, although Spa do boast a game in hand.

Bletcher said: “That result was like getting a monkey off our back.

“Everybody at the club had been very nervous before the game and I am not sure there were any fingernails left by the end.

“I thought Droitwich Spa played really well and they surprised me with how strong they were.

“But what pleased me the most was the fact we didn’t let them score a try and they didn’t even come close to doing so.

“I thought Chris Pinner and Tom Maher were superb but everyone played well.”

KCS now turn their attentions to the North Midlands Shield at Three West (South) side Kings Norton, who are based at Hopwood Park near Birmingham.

Bletcher is set to ring the changes and give rests to a host of first team players, giving the club’s squad a chance to impress.

“I did not make a substitution on Saturday, which is quite rare,” said Bletcher.

“The players understood and did not moan but they will all get their chance against Kings Norton.

“Players like Tom and Chris have had tough seasons and they need to recharge their batteries.”

n Match report — Page 99