In scorching conditions a greatly depleted Arrows squad made the long trip north to take on experienced Gateshead Senators only to see a gallant effort fail with a 20-0 defeat.

The Arrows were missing nine of their regular players for what was their opening game of the regular season. But they still held on and only lost to three late touchdowns.

Redditch, who started with just 23 players, shared the honours in the first half holding Gateshead to a 0-0 half-time score with neither team having great success in moving the ball and with both defenses in control.

Problems with Arrows' depleted squad worsened shortly after the start when three more players were forced out of the contest with injuries.

The second half continued in this vein with the deadlock finally being broken late in the third quarter when a blocked punt gave the Senators their best field position of the day on the Arrows eight-yard line. The home side took full advantage with a four-yard rush that opened up a six-point lead.

The fourth quarter saw the Senators extend their lead with a further four-yard rush. A successful two-point conversion and a final three-yard rushing touchdown eight seconds from the end completed the scoring.

Despite the result the Arrows can be proud of their performance with all of the team making excellent contributions -- many playing both in offense and defense.

It is hoped the Arrows will be able to turn the tables on the Gateshead side when the teams play their return match at Kings Norton in three weeks. By then, the Arrows squad should be back up to strength.

On Offense, Richard Wilde ran for 28 yards, Anthony Perkins for 40 yards and Dave Mills for 45 yards. On Defense Karl Watkins had five unassisted tackles and two assisted while Steve Jones had four and six.