MATT Blount bagged a hat-trick for titlechasing Ludlow in their 7-0 home win over Yardley in the ENER-G West Midlands League Division Two.

Andrew Richard hit a brace, while James Pratt and Gavin Hughes also netted for second-placed Ludlow, who stormed into a 5-0 lead at the break.

Ludlow are now just four points behind table-topping Bromsgrove after a strong display against lower-graded Yardley.

A depleted Ludlow 2nd were without eight regulars and crashed 10-1 at thirdplaced Tamworth in 2nd XI Division Two.

Young Jake Watts provided a moment of hope for Ludlow but they were 5-1 down at the break.

It was not all one-way traffic as there were some lively attacks from Lyam Hutchinson, Charlie Lyth and Tyler Davis.

Mike Wilson and Sam Pratt also kept the Tamworth defence active.

Ludlow Women were beaten 9-0 at Bromsgrove in the Wocestershire League Division One.

But there was better news for Tenbury Women, who picked up a point from a hard-working performance at Harborne, also in Division One.

It was an emotional match for Tenbury, who held a private minute’s silence in memory of the late John Walker, the dad of ex-players Mel, Emma and Claire Walker.

Jo Rusling gave an inspiration display in goal and Jenny Schenke and Amy Bywater dominated the midfield.

Becky Gwilliam made a welcome return from injury, while Abi Thomas had a shot well saved by the home goalkeeper.

Tenbury host Stourport this Saturday in the league at Bridge Street, noon start.