HOCKEY: The DTZ League Midlands One season got off to a terrible start for Kidderminster who were thrashed 5-0 at home to West Bridgford.

But the town team gave their all against organised opposition from Nottingham and must hope for better when they travel to Solihull Blossomfield on Saturday.

Telford 3 Kidderminster 2nds 2

Kidderminster 3rds 0 Telford 3

The thirds can take heart from an encouraging first half though they fell behind just before the break in West Midlands Division One.

Telford took advantage of a defensive mishap at a penalty corner and then grabbed two more as the home side pressed for the equaliser.

Although a poor result, the four debut-making U-16s, Craig Bourne and Steve Almer in defence along with Joe Sorrell and Scott Edwards in attack, impressed.

The fourths' fixture was cancelled due to a lack of players.

Worcester Norton 4ths 0

Kidderminster Ladies 6

Kate McGowan marked her return from a four-year stay in the USA with a hat-trick in a comfortable victory.

McGowan scored two in the first half, one a penalty, and Kaye Ford added another as they led 3-0 at half-time.

Kidderminster's defence had little to do though Amanda Williams impressed at the back and they ran away with the game in the second period.

McGowan completed her hat-trick to add to strikes from Lucy Prior and Rachael Fidoe from a penalty corner.

Fixtures, Saturday: Solihull Blossomfield v Kidderminster 1sts, 2nds v Solihull Blossomfield, Old Wulfrians v 3rds, 4ths v Old Wulfrians.