A POOR first-half display cost Chaddesley Corbett as they failed to reach the final of the Worcester Nursing Cup for the first time in three years.

Their run was curtailed at the quarter-final stage by ICIS Combination Premier Division strugglers Fernhill County Sports in a 2-0 defeat.

The Worcester side opened the scoring with an unfortunate Andy Birch own goal on 15 minutes and added a quick second through Dean Tudge.

Chaddesley keeper Steve Parker said: "It was one of those days when nothing went right for us. Andy Birch's own goal summed it up and we're all disappointed.

"However, it allows us to concentrate on ensuring third place in the league now."

Fernhill's first serious threat on goal brought the opener after a quick counter-attack when Alex Kilgour had an effort saved for Chaddesley.

Wayne Berry's cross was smashed into his own net by Birch from eight yards, giving Parker no chance.

Five minutes later, poor Chaddesley defending allowed a well-worked corner to be flicked on for Tudge to beat Parker.

Ashley Phillips appeared after half-an-hour for his first game in three months, replacing Birch in a tactical switch.

But Chaddesley failed to fashion any clear chances though Craig Pratt fired just wide from a difficult angle on 34 minutes.

The home side had more problems at half-time as the injured Matt Baynton had to be replaced by Steve Wainwright.

Chaddesley battled more in the second period with Pratt putting a header wide and having another cleared off the line.

Parker was only troubled once at the other end, saving excellently at full stretch from a free-kick.

But his team-mates lacked the final ball too often despite promising build-up play which included mazy runs from man-of-the-match Richard Ash down the wing.

Chaddesley's players are asked to meet at The Land Oak pub at 12.45pm for Saturday's game at Mahal.