HARD work in training failed to pay dividends as Kidderminster Carolians gave a lack-lustre display in losing their Midlands Three West (North) opener.

Several players were injured or unavailable on Saturday but KCs should have performed better than they did in the 21-6 defeat at newly promoted Telford Hornets.

The visitors took an early lead through stand-off Andy Stooksbury's penalty but Telford drew level on the half-hour with three points of their own.

Poor defending allowed a try in the right-hand corner for the home side on the stroke of half-time.

KCs rarely got into their stride in the second period and Telford quickly added another try after a kick-ahead was followed up.

At 13-6 down through another Stooksbury penalty, it did not look as if KCs could hope to reduce the deficit.

The game was over on the hour with a third unconverted Telford try and later a second penalty.

KCs will have to improve matters if they are to beat visitors Bridgnorth in Saturday's first league encounter at Marlpool Lane.

Jones and Whitehouse scored converted tries with kicker Iain Crockett also adding a penalty as KC 2nds lost 21-17 to Shrewsbury.

The thirds beat Bewdley 46-0 with tries from Matt Such (four), Richard Bradley, Ben Jones and Dave Betson. Matt Woodward added four conversions and a penalty.

Fixtures, Saturday: KCs 1sts v Bridgnorth, Telford v 2nds, 3rds v Telford (all 3pm).