LUDLOW FC boss Chris Waldron believes his team are reaping the rewards of consistency after climbing to fifth place in the Salop Leisure League Premier.

An Aaron Dovey goal and a Tom Everall penalty, awarded after a foul on Sean Evans, gave Ludlow a 2-1 win at Wrockwardine Wood Juniors, the 10-man hosts pulling a goal back late on.

Ludlow now face a tough test this Saturday, travelling to league leaders Shrewsbury – but Waldron says they will do so in good heart.

He explained: “We were disappointed with our start to the season but we had lost a few players in the summer so it was a rebuilding job at the beginning.

“We had troubles with availability and injuries, and we were a bit short for a few weeks but now we seem to have more of a settled side the last month or so – and results have reflected that.

“Shrewsbury are the best side in the league and will be favourites to win it but we will give it our best.”

On the hockey field, Ludlow men’s first XI lost their unbeaten home record, beaten 3-2 by Olton and West Warwicks in a highly-competitive match.

Ludlow fell behind against the run of play in the first half but two quickfire Ben Crump goals put them ahead, only for the visitors to score twice in the final five minutes to snatch victory.

Ludlow Ladies, meanwhile, consolidated top spot in their league as goals from top scorer Amy Cookson, Clodagh Beddow and Shaunagh Yarham clinched a 3-1 win over Kings Heath Pickwick.