REDDITCH United finish a mixed Southern League Premier Division season with a visit to Merthyr Town on Saturday.
Tim Harris’ side head to Wales on the back of a highly entertaining 3-2 home win over top seven side Tiverton Town on Saturday in which Adam Page bagged a brace for United.
The Reds had to dig deep to seal victory after defender Tom Fishwick was sent off in the second half, eventually clinching victory thanks to a 73rd-minute goal from Page.
Tim Harris’ side had made a flying start through Stuart Fleetwood’s second-minute opener but Tiverton hauled themselves level just four minutes later through Jared Lewington.
Page restored the hosts’ lead on 19 minutes, Thomas Bath netted a second equaliser for the visitors midway through the second half, but the hosts were not to be denied.
After the match United keeper Ethan Ross, who has spent the season on loan at the Trico from West Bromwich Albion, took to social media to thanks supporters.
“Really enjoyed every minute of playing with the lads this season and will take it onwards in my experiences,” said Ross.
“I’ve played with virtually two squads this season but would like to wish all the players past and present the best of luck next season.
“Redditch as a club can have a very positive season next year with the current management team in charge so it’s important everybody gets behind and backs the gaffer, Sykes, Rands and all of the players to make it happen.”
The Reds will be without the suspended Fishwick this weekend but boss Harris hopes Tyler Weir and Josh Ezewele will overcome injury. United are 14th and could finish the campaign anywhere from that position to 17th.
IT WAS a disappointing weekend for Redditch United Ladies as their West Midlands League Division One South title hopes suffered a setback with a 3-2 defeat at Solihull United.
This was United’s first defeat of the campaign and leaves them second in the table – a point behind leaders Gornal with a game in hand and three league matches remaining.
Coventry Sphinx are third – two points behind the Reds with a game in hand – and a thrilling finale is in prospect with Gary Barrell’s United facing home and away games against Sphinx, who also have Gornal still to play.
Redditch found themselves 2-0 down at half-time at Solihull on Sunday to two controversial penalties, but fought back to level after the break through Sam Berry and Ellie Gerhold.
However, with the visitors looking the more likely winners, Solihull sealed victory when a deep cross fortuitously fell to a home player who made no mistake from close range.
The Reds have the perfect chance to bounce back this Sunday when they face Coventry Sphinx at Stone Dominoes FC (Staffordshire) in the West Midlands League Cup South final.
YOUNGSTERS will be able to get their hands on the Premier League trophy when it comes to the Trico Stadium.
The Reds will be inviting local primary school children to the gorund to have their picture taken with the silverware, as well as take part in various football and classroom activities, on Thursday, May 24.
In association with the West Bromwich Albion Foundation and Premier League Primary Stars, the Baggies’ academy coaches will host a series of training sessions on its 3G pitch, while a fun classroom environment will be set up for tutors to teach subjects, such as literacy and maths.
Each child will then have their chance to pose with the Premier League trophy and West Brom mascot Baggie Bird will also be flying in to make an appearance.
BEFORE that, tickets are available for a sports evening at the Trico with former Scotland, Birmingham City and Nottingham Forest star Kenny Burns.
The fun kicks off at 7.30pm on Friday, May 18, with doors opening an hour earlier. Burns will be speaking about his football career and the audience will also be entertained by a comedian and compere Craig Dixon.
Tickets are priced £20 and include a pie and chip supper (vegetarian option available). Contact the club on 01527 67450.
