TONY Gore was in philosophical mood about his side's 4-1 defeat at home to local rivals Black Country Rangers.

The Dudley Sports boss is still pleased with his side's start to the West Midlands Premier season despite the loss.

Despite another goal for leading scorer Dean Williams, Sports have now slipped to eighth in the table despite be overtaken by Saturday's conquerors.

"I didn't go overboard about things when we were winning games and I won't when we are losing them," said Gore.

"We have 19 points from 11 games and it shows how far we have come this season that we are disappointed not to have performed.

"I felt 4-1 flattered Black Country, but no complaints, they deserved to win."

Gore now turns his attentions to Shawbury United away on Saturday.

He will be without left-back Jamie Parker who came off against Rangers with a knee injury that looks like keeping him out for several weeks. Oliver Staten injured his knee in training and Jonathan Letford (work) and Ben Davis (holiday) are both unavailable.

"We have a decent squad and it gives opportunities to other players. Really it's more a case of keeping them all happy, players want to play every game."

Meanwhile central defender James Taylor has come through a couple of games unscathed for Bartley Green. He has been out for almost two seasons and has gone to Green to get match sharpness.

James is still part of our plans," said Gore. "He just needs matches and I can't give him them at the moment."

Sports drew 0-0 at home to Malvern Town last Tuesday.