THERE could be plenty of satisfaction taken from Kidderminster Carolians' season after a third place finish in Midlands Three West (North).

But for one or two small hiccups KCs could have won the league although playing in a higher division may have been too much, too early for a relatively young and inexperienced squad.

However, the emergence of several teenagers has been perhaps the most important feature of their year with as many as five named in the side.

James Lloyd Jones, Will Hill, John Mounter, Ben Turner, Jon Easton, Ben Stanier, and Luke Higley are all teenagers with plenty of ability.

They complement others in their early 20s, while veterans such as Paul Drew, Adrian Taft, Andy Stooksbury, Ambro Neri and Lee Southerton lend a physical aspect and crucial experience.

KCs encountered nowhere near the number of injuries suffered the previous season which proved an important factor.

The Marlpool Lane club had their problems but they centred on just two positions, scrum-half and stand-off, where several players have been tried.

To replace someone of stand-off Stooksbury's experience was not easy but Mounter and Tom Oakes have had a fair number of games and will have gained from that.

Ben Stirling started the season at scrum half but, although he often looked the part, would be the first to admit it is a hard position. Recently, both Hill and Matt Such have also had a go.

Lloyd Jones moved from centre to full-back and made the position his own.

The youngster is exciting to watch and when the raw edges are cleaned off could be a big name for the future.

KCs are always blessed with quick wingers and can boast 18-try top scorer Neri, Eddie Ross and Andy Webber.

Matt Smith has continued as a stylish centre, while Hill is also improving quickly.

KCs' strength often lied in a good set of forwards and it was a relief when Stuart Such returned to the squad.

Tireless worker Matt Bennett, another young player, was hit by injuries but found his fitness quickly to prove a key player.

But his second-row partner Simon Wilks has been unable to shake off a long-term injury so Easton has filled in and looks to have a bright future.

Cliff Tomkinson , a newcomer from Stoke, settled in well and with either Drew or Ben Turner, the selectors have a superb combination of props to chose from.

Neil Shillingford arrived on loan from Dudley-Kingswinford and immediately created a big impression but was recalled for his team's promotion push.

The club are hoping Shillingford may figure again next season.

KCs' back row saw few changes and worked well with the enthusiastic Jason Sunderland enjoying a fine season.

Bruce Hodges has had injury trouble but experienced coach Ross Baxter has played in most of the games.

And first team manager Phil Knowles again put in countless hours seven days a week to make life a lot easier for KCs.

They were backed by good support which usually outnumbers the home crowd.

KCs are hoping to go one step further next year and build on their experience to gain promotion.