DUDLEY Town managed to defy the wet weather this week thanks to landlords Sporting Khalsa's 4G pitch in Willenhall.

But the prospect of stealing a march on their waterlogged rivals backfired as they were beaten 4-3 by next door neighbours Bilston Town.

Hinesh Patel plundered a couple of goals for the Robins with Dan Jones also on target.

Bilston responded with goals from Kevin Nickle, Jordan Smith-Williams and Alex Cameron to leave the score level at 3-3.

The outcome was eventually decided by a disputed penalty which Nickle duly converted to leave Dudley Town empty-handed.

It means the Robins slip out of the top six as a result of AFC Bridgnorth's 5-2 success at next to bottom Wem Town.

Dudley Town have a hectic week ahead. They host Pershore Town on Tuesday night in the West Midland Premier Division League Cup before visiting Wolves Sporting Community in a league fixture on Saturday.

Tividale based Smethwick Rangers turned the formbook upside down at the weekend with a splendid 2-0 triumph at third placed Worcester Raiders courtesy of goals from George Taylor and Harvey Walker. Victory propels Smethwick up to 10th place.

Bewdley Town's proposed trip to Pershore proved to be a washout.

But Bewdley will be hoping for better luck from the weather this week with two key fixtures coming up.

Bewdley entertain National League North neighbours Kidderminster Harriers on Tuesday in the Worcestershire Senior Invitation Cup.

Busy Bewdley then return to Ribbesford Meadow on Saturday for the West Midland League's match of the day when they attempt to become the first side to dent Shifnal Town's 100 per cent league record so far this season.

Impressive leaders Shifnal have won all 12 league games to date and have built a convincing 12 points advantage over second placed Bewdley who will be bidding to cut the deficit.

Rock bottom Cradley Town will be desperate to accumulate some points as well on Saturday when they host Pershore Town while Dudley Sports host Shawbury United at Hillcrest Avenue.