BROMSGROVE Rovers Reserves held on to top spot in the Midland Combination reserve division depsite a 1-0 defeat at Gresley.
A much-depleted Rovers side threw everything except the kitchen sink at their hosts in an attempt to salvage a point.
Steve Cotton's side fell behind when a pass, flick on and chase caught young Nathan Battle unawares and Tate sped down the left and crossed low for Bruce Lwando to bundle the ball home.
Bromsgrove saw several chances to equalise come and go before the interval.
Richard Tomkins had a shot tipped over the bar by Wayne Wright and further efforts from Andre Whyte and Sean Maynard were pushed out for corners.
Maynard, Steve Ruck and Langford all went close with shots for Bromsgrove in the second half.
Bromsgrove brought on Tiago DaSilva for Battle late on and switched to three up front but they could not break Gresley's resolve.
The Reserves now face two away fixtures in 48 hours.
They travel to Oadby Town this Saturday (2.45pm) and visit Worcester City at St George's Lane on Monday (7.45pm).
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