CENTRE-BACK Gavin Podmore went between the sticks to help leaders Worcester Raiders claim a 0-0 draw at third-placed Sikh Hunters in West Midlands League Division One.

In a game of few chances the hosts struck the bar when Raiders goalkeeper Lewis Pinches was down injured following a blow to his ribs.

Having already made three substitutions Podmore agreed to take the gloves for the final 10 minutes.

Despite being a man down Raiders held firm and almost snatched victory late on when Roland Krol saw his shot saved after being teed up by Ryan Rowe who has joined from Bewdley Town.

The city side are one point ahead of Darlaston Town going into Saturday’s potential title-deciding clash between the top two at the Paycare Ground (3pm).

Raiders boss Karl Gormley said: “It was another tough game with very few chances.

“Lewis got a kick in the ribs and we had used all our subs so Gavin had to go in goal.

“He had a couple of saves to make and did well. We probably had the best chance of the game with a few minutes to go.

"Rowey knocked it down for Roland whose shot was saved from seven or eight yards out.

“It was a fair result that keeps us in the driving seat.”

The experienced Rowe, 30, boasts spells at Stourbridge, Kidderminster Harriers and Worcester City.