Lady luck certainly wasn't smiling on City as they slipped out of the Worcestershire FA Saturday Under 14s Cup after a closely-fought contest at Kidderminster Harriers, which they dominated in the early stages.

On a difficult playing surface, City started strongly and penned their hosts back in their own half for most of the opening exchanges but cruelly went behind somewhat against the run of play.

Moments after the ball just wouldn't drop for the industrious Archie Thurston in the Harriers' penalty box after he had worked an opening for himself, the home side took the lead which they didn't hold for long. Thurston fed Guy Collett and, from 25 yards out, he sent a dipping effort over the Harriers keeper to level matters.

Harriers regained the advantage somewhat fortuitously as the balance of play swung in their favour - Josh Reed-Jones making his second excellent save of the half as he tipped over a half-volley.

City then conceded a third disappointing goal but ended the half the stronger. Will Cottell had a goal disallowed after the referee adjudged the ball had bobbled up and hit his hand and he then rebuffed two penalty claims on the excellent Thurston.

The second period was shaded by Harriers who created the most clear-cut chances but found Reed-Jones in good form as he made two more good saves during the half.

City were found wanting at a corner when a Harriers' player was left unmarked at the back post to poke in their fourth.

There was better at the next corner they were asked to defend though when the ball was cleared upfield to Harry Rebbeck and held off the defenders to score.

However City's hopes of getting back into the tie were extinguished after they gave away a cheap free kick on the edge of their box - the second in quick succession. When the free-kick taker slipped, it kindly rolled the ball in off the far post.

More lessons learned in the development of this City side, which now looks forward to defending their unbeaten four-game run in the JPL next weekend when they welcome Cirencester to Perdiswell.

Worcester City FC

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