Almost a full complement of Worcester City Youth sides were in action as win, lose or draw, players enjoyed being back on the pitch and involved in matches again in the famous blue and white stripes.

The Under 9s, 10s and 11s took on Pro Pathway, Wilden and Solihull Academy, whilst one of our two Under 8s teams and the Under 15s met Paget Rangers. Playing their fourth game in seven days, the latter showed no ill effects of a busy week as they recorded a deserved 2-1 win thanks to goals by Charlie Grubb and Cian Sheehan.

Also in Nerf Junior Premier League action were the Under 13s who, despite only fielding 10 players due to injury and illness, played well at WBA Foundation. A 1-3 defeat with Rafe Green on target but a sterling performance in the circumstances nevertheless which the lads should take great credit for.

Two of our Under 12 teams prepared for their return to league action this weekend with friendlies. Thea Richmond and Maisie Jackson netted for the Lionesses as they were beaten 2-4 by Wyre Forest, whilst the boys warmed up for their first JPL encounter since the resumption against South Staffordshire RTC on Saturday by defeating Warndon Villages 7-2. Damian Duncan was in top form with five goals; Pierce Lancaster and Louie McLean the other marksmen.

Having delivered a good show against City's first team last weekend, the Reserves produced another excellent display in their friendly outing against Bartley Reds at Claines Lane.

From the first whistle, the side's sharp passing and interplay was evident as they romped into a 3-0 half-time lead courtesy of an Adam Turner hat-trick. A second-half own goal completed an impressive 4-0 triumph - the perfect tonic for a competitive cup match that the squad will be playing versus Allscott on Saturday.

On Monday night, with the Midland Floodlit League programme curtailed, our Under 18s participated in their opening Ray Mercer Memorial Shield tie.

Against Tividale, City adapted positively to a difficult surface by opening up a 2-0 lead thanks to a Brandon Croft header and a delightful Owen Oxley free-kick.

After the break, the visitors continued to flourish in their first game since Christmas by dominating possession and their efforts were duly rewarded. Oxley grabbed his second before a mazy run by Tristan Webby served up a goal for Josh Schuck, whose later strike completed an emphatic 5-0 victory.