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MALVERN II 20, EVESHAM I 0 AFTER a six week lay off following a disappointing series of cry-offs and weather affected postponements, Malvern's seconds finally got back in the saddle last Saturday with a battling win against a spirited and organized Evesham side.

The heavy rain on the preceding Friday had flooded Evesham's pitch, where the fixture was scheduled to be played, but to Malvern's relief the game was switched.

The effect on the Spring Lane pitch, although less severe, still made open, flowing rugby difficult for both sides.

Early pressure from the hosts created several chances, but dogged defence and playing right on the limit by Evesham ensured Malvern's 10-minute spell inside the visitors 22 without troubling the scorers.

Malvern's dominance at the set piece gave a significant measure of control to their efforts, and the power of their pack provided a genuine threat.

When a catch and drive was employed ten metres out, the Evesham line was finally breached as scrum-half Sam Jones touched down for the first score of the afternoon.

The lengthy lay off showed in Malvern's lack of cohesion and less than slick handling.

This, coupled with Evesham's excellent defence, prevented the hosts from making their pace and power count as they have done so often this season.

But the side's ability to change their game plan showed as they took the opposition on up front, scoring one more drive over try, courtesy of skipper Mark Chivers, before half time.

Malvern grabbed two tries more in the second period through Sean Lancett and Dan Sparrey.

As the game wore on and the conditions improved slightly, Evesham rallied, putting in a series of good attacks through their three-quarters and playing some of the best rugby of the afternoon, but the hosts defence held firm to secure the win.

3:13pm Wednesday 16th January 2008

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