DIRECTOR of rugby Phil Knowles hailed Kidderminster Carolians’ impressive team display after they saw off high-flying Moseley Oak.

A fourth straight win saw the Marlpool Lane outfit tighten their grip on a top four place in the Midlands Division Two West (North).

More importantly, victory drew them within a point of Moseley Oak.

Last week, KCs had overwhelmed Moseley in the semi-finals of the North Midlands Shield at home. But Saturday’s league clash was on a narrower pitch in Billesley Common, which was more open to the elements.

Despite missing first-team regulars such as Layton Wilkinson and Chris and Alex Baldwin, they ground out a hard fought 22-13 win.

That was despite losing two players to the sin bin and being outnumbered twice in the second half.

Knowles said: “It was another excellent team performance.

“Moseley did everything they could to make life difficult. We were on a smaller pitch which did not suit our game, it was quite high up and it was windy and cold.

“We were missing quite a few players but the lads really played for each other It was a great team display.

“What pleases me the most is that the lads are clearly listening to what our coaches Stu Such and Andy McLellan are telling them and taking it onto the pitch.”

KCs face another daunting task on Saturday when they tackle second-placed Old Saltleians at home.

Old Salts won eight games in a row before losing to leaders Bridgnorth a fortnight ago but bounced back well as they saw off Camp Hill 26-14.

KCs coaches face a selection headache as all the missing players are available for duty once again.

Knowles added: “Old Salts are far and away the second best team in the league and not that far behind Bridgnorth, so we’re in for a hard game.”