KIDDERMINSTER Carolians Director of Rugby Phil Knowles has offered a collective pat on the back to the club for their efforts this season following victory in their final game at Leamington.

That win secured third place in Midlands Two West (South) and come the start of next season Knowles, who is also first team manager, predicts promotion will be very much on the cards.

“We just missed going up but to be honest I don’t think we were ready to go up,” said Knowles. “But with the strength we will add for next year we have a real good go at the league.”

Knowles was full of praise for the players and the role played by first team coach Ian Bletcher, team administrator Andy McLellan, as well as the efforts of chairman of rugby Adrian Taft.

“We have managed to field four regular teams thanks to Adrian, he has done wonders for us with the lower sides, whereas a lot of teams can only field two.

“We have had a few of the Colts come through into the first team which is brilliant for the club and the seconds, thirds and fourths have all done well.

“But also a big well done to Bletch and all the players who have worked really hard this year when we have suffered so badly from injuries. I really do think we can have a good go at the league next year,” said Knowles.