WORCESTER Raiders took to the field for the first time in almost three weeks as they beat 10-man Hereford Pegasus at Sixways to go level on points with league leaders Studley.

Rory Worthing's red card in the 28th minute for a dangerous tackle proved to be pivotal in the end as second-half goals from Isaac Cooper, Kai Mahon and Ollie Thompson sealed all three points for Raiders.

Having been stunned by lowly Cirencester Town Development in their first game of the year and after the shock announcement that co-manager Mark Owen has stepped away from the game for a period, it was a result that provided a much needed boost for the hosts.

They are now tied on 51 points with Studley, who do have a game in hand on Worcester, as the title race looks set to go down to the wire.

The home side looked rusty early on as Hereford dominated the ball and the visitors had the ball in the net after seven minutes but it was ruled out for offside.

Jordan Cox pulled a shot wide as Raiders looked to get a foothold in the game but that was about it in terms of chances until Worthing's reckless challenge.

The midfielder went into a challenge with Joe Billingham with studs showing and the referee did not hesitate to give the Hereford man his marching orders.

Worcester took their time to make the man advantage count but after just four minutes of the second-half, Cooper found the net with a brilliant solo strike.

Nine minutes later it was 2-0 as Mahon's inswinging corner beat everyone to nestle in the back of the net.

Thompson then added a third late on to seal the points and a much needed victory for Raiders, who's title charge is back on track.