DROITWICH Mens contrived to throw away another lead in this summer league derby when they were edged out 4-3 by Redditch.

Spa were edged out in a topsy-turvy clash where both sides exchanged the lead.

Droitwich once more conceded an early goal after two minutes from a penalty corner as a Redditch attacker deflected the goal-bound shot high into the net.

Despite this setback the hosts grew into the game, moving the ball around the back creating overlaps in this high-energy game.

Spa’s equaliser duly arrived after 22 minutes with Lee Wakelham rounding off a flowing move to score on the right.

They then edged ahead as Matthew Lee capped another fine move after Marcus Claytor played the decisive ball.

But Redditch equalised within a minute with a field goal after Droitwich conceded needless possession in the middle of the park.

The Kingfishers had a glorious opportunity to score after a move down the Spa left-hand side but George Robertshaw smothered the effort as Redditch forwards piled in to win the ball.

The remainder of the half saw both sides continue to attack but the away side’s frustration grew, resulting in poor tackles.

As the half was about to end, Alexei Payne pounced on a mistake by Redditch midfield and Payne waltzed around the defence before slotting the ball home to give Droitwich the 3-2 lead into the break.

After the break, Droitwich hit Redditch as Mark Barte drove forwards on numerous occasions, only for their final pass to let them down.

Redditch punished these missed opportunities as they once more equalised six minutes after the restart.

Robertshaw continued to keep the home side in the game with commanding performance in goal and keeping out several efforts.

Wakelham had the ball in the back of the net, but the umpires had blown for a stick check prior to his effort.

Claytor had further opportunities wide on the right to deliver crosses but always picked the defender.

Spa attacked down their left with seconds left but paid the price for conceding possession and Redditch scored the winner late on.

They travel to Baford Tigers next, seeking their first win of the season which could move them above their opponents.

Meanwhile, Droitwich Ladies lost 3-1 to Stourport White, with Julie Hall on target.

Droitwich Mens will play Bromsgrove next.