REDDITCH were unable to repeat their FA Cup exploits when they tumbled out of their second cup competition in four days after a 3-1 FA Trophy defeat at Mangotsfield.

Crowds have tailed off since United's FA Cup exit and efforts to get the punters back in will have been hit by an early exit from the only remaining national competition, which came despite Naved Arshad's opener.

Mark Taylor made his Reds debut after being released by Halesowen Town and winger Alex Cowley (ankle) and defender Dennis Mulholland (hamstring) recovered from injuries to start.

Richard Anstiss recovered from an injury suffered against Evesham United last week but midfielder Richard Softley, who limped off last week, was absent from the squad.

Youngster Kevin Casey was on the bench for Redditch.

United's attempt to play their Worcestershire Senior Cup Round One tie at Sutton Coldfield Town was again frustrated last night because the hosts were replaying an FA Trophy tie at Tamworth.

The first attempt was abandoned with Redditch trailing 1-0 with 17 minutes to play and the next blank date for both sides is Tuesday, November 26th.

The tie has increased in importance for the Reds as one of few remaining chances of silverware this season.

United return to Dr Martens League action at home to Bedworth on Saturday (ko 3pm) and visit Solihull Borough on Monday (ko 7.30pm).