WORCESTER Raiders gave a disciplined performance to win 2-0 at Darlaston in West Midlands League Division One.

Nick MacPherson and Sam Carey gave fifth-placed Raiders their advantage in the first half to go within one point of Tipton Town in fourth spot.

With four key players out and two carrying injuries, Raiders faced well-organised, experienced hosts with just 16-year-old Casey Gormley on the bench.

But the Claines Lane side demonstrated their improved discipline this season when up against a vociferous home support.

MacPherson fired Raiders ahead on six minutes with a far-post half-volley from Anthony Smith’s cross.

Raiders pressed further but found the Darlaston keeper in fine form.

However, from a corner a despairing dive could not keep out a looping header from versatile midfielder Carey.

Top scorer Martin Newman almost made it three with a superb volley that was tipped over.

Matt Tyler, struggling with a hamstring injury, was replaced by Gormley before half-time.

He went up front and acquitted himself well with MacPherson and Smith moving into midfield.

Darlaston went all out to reduce the arrears but came up against a brick wall led by defender Joel Hobbs despite a foot injury.

Raiders host local rivals Bromyard Town on Saturday (2pm).