Redditch 7

Birmingham & Solihull 33

Redditch ended their season on Saturday losing out to Birmingham Solihull in the semi-final of the North Midlands Vase.

Birmingham came to Redditch as hot favourites after romping to the title in the league above the Kingfishers in addition to reaching the Powergen Junior Vase final at Twickenham.

However had it not been for a lapse of concentration for three minutes in the first half, Redditch could have easily won the game.

Birmingham used the slope to their advantage in the first half and opened up an early lead.

Redditch continued to play the better rugby and held the visitors in the set-pieces. When the backs had the ball they spread it well.

But three minutes of meltdown cost the home side as they didn't have time to catch their breath as three tries were scored in quick succession to open up a 28-0 interval lead.

Undaunted, Redditch began the second half well and dominated the proceedings. With 14 minutes gone Joe Alekna broke the cover tackling to charge through to score, Sam Johnson converting the try.

But although Redditch were now playing with belief, the visitors shut the hatches and used every bit of their experience to slow the game down and retain possession.

And although it was Birmingham who bagged the final score, Redditch took heart from the fact they dominated and outscored their visitors after the break.

Glen Francis was named man of the match.

The outstanding league clash with Kings Norton looks set to go down as a 0-0 draw as the game could not be played before the end of the season.

It all means Redditch will finish the campaign in third place and added to a successful season by reaching th elast four of the North Midlands Vase.