THE University of Worcester men’s first team has been promoted after a successful play-off match against the University of Bedfordshire.

The city side won the home match 5-4 on penalties after a closely-fought game, which saw both teams score three goals.

The Henwick Road-based outfit has now been promoted to the British Universities and Colleges Sports (BUCS) Midlands Conference League 1A.

Team captain Dale Williams said: “It was a very tight game but we managed to pull out a win on penalties and are delighted to be back in League 1A next season.”

Worcester went 1-0 up after 20 minutes courtesy of a Rob Hendry goal from a well-worked Tom Thorley cross.

Thirty-five minutes into the game Bedfordshire equalised and they went on to take the lead after the break.

However, Worcester’s Leigh Downing blasted the ball past the Bedfordshire keeper from a Tom Warmer pass.

Worcester dominated the early possession in the first-half of extra-time and created chances for Williams, Downing and Rob Hendry.

But no breakthrough came and, going into the second-half of extra-time, both teams were eager to finish the game the stronger.

Bedfordshire took the lead with a well-struck half-volley past Worcester’s keeper Jack Stern.

Then, with five minutes to go, Worcester grabbed a dramatic equaliser from a free-kick scored by Thorley.

The match went to a penalty shoot-out and Worcester held their nerve to secure promotion with a 5-4 win.