BROMSGROVE suffered another narrow defeat in the South West Division when losing out 27-20 to second placed Old Redcliffians from Bristol at Finstall Park.

Tries from winger Ollie Bache and scrum half Adam Whiteman, both of which were converted by inside centre Jon Critchlow, who also kicked a couple of penalties, kept Bromsgrove in contention throughout.

Head coach Dan Protherough admitted: "It was the same old story, so near, yet so far."

The result means Bromsgrove have lost to the top four sides in the league by seven points or less.

That includes a 23-19 reverse to leaders Cambourne, 20-15 against third in the table Dings Crusaders and 30-28 to fourth placed Ivybridge.

Protherough insisted: " We are moving in the right direction, but we're just lacking that cutting edge which we need to get over the line.

"We've proved we can compete with the best sides in this division and we've remained competitive throughout despite the fact we're missing some key players.

"There has been plenty to build upon and we just have to keep going. All the players are working hard for each other and while we've got that spirit and attitude, then you always have a chance."

Bromsgrove make the long distance trip to Bournemouth this Saturday and Protherough is keeping his fingers crossed that both Tom Hardwick and Paul Norris will be back available.

.