Thursday, May 3, 2001

BROMSGROVE Rovers have vowed to bounce back after suffering their third relegation in five seasons.

Rovers, who were playing Conference football just four years ago, were sentenced to the drop from the Dr Martens League Western Division after a 2-0 home defeat against Atherstone United last night.

Rovers now face the prospect of the Midland Alliance next season.

Chief executive Pat Bannister said: "It's disappointing but the most important thing is that we still have a football club. The fans appreciate that, and we are now in a position where we can go forward."

Rovers dominated the first-half with Paul Lloyd hitting the post, Costas Xiourouppa having a goal disallowed and Steve Frost, Lloyd and Quentin Townsend forcing fine saves from goalkeeper Dale Belford.

But they lost their way after the break, and Atherstone capitalised to take the lead through Ian Purvey on 55 minutes. Former Worcester City striker Anton Thomas made the most of a Townsend error to add the second in injury-time.

Bromsgrove: Olden 7, Watson 7, Hughes 6, Townsend 7, Frost 7, Yates 8, Bridgewater 6, Lloyd 7(Beckett 68, 6), Xiourouppa 6, Banner 6, Hackett 7. Subs not used: Sumnall, Ball. Attendance: 361.

* Rovers bow out at home to promotion-chasing Bilston Town tomorrow (3pm).