Jack Watts scores twice in Malvern's 2-2 draw with Paulton Rovers

Watts scored both goals in the 2-2 draw to keep Malvern out of the relegation zone, whilst also taking his own personal tally for goals up to eight for the season.

Jack Watts has now scored eight league goals for Malvern this season (Image: Cliff Williams)

The Hillsiders remain winless across their last seven matches in all competitions and continue to struggle with Step 4 football in what is their first season back at the level for 14 years. 

But the character shown during the 90 minutes will have pleased managers Lee Hooper and Stephen Cleal, with their side twice coming from behind to secure a positive result. 

It was another slow start for the hosts and after six minutes, Paulton took the lead when David O'Hare raced through the middle of the Malvern defence to score past stand-in keeper Archie Burford.

The response was quick, however, with Ben Hayes' inviting ball into the box expertly turned home by the in-form Watts five minutes later.

Jack Watts equalises in the first-half (Image: Cliff Williams)

Malvern grew into the game and Justin Hall's low strike was saved by Robert Brown as they looked to take the lead.

But as has often been the case this season, a lapse in concentration saw Malvern go into half-time behind. A loose ball in defence was jumped on by Kye Simpson, who set-up Toby Stephens to convert for a 2-1 lead.

The home side came out swinging after the break and Joe davies and Hall both went close to finding the equaliser. 

Watts was denied by Brown later in the half as the search for a goal went on, but he would not be denied 13 minutes from time, guiding a header past Brown and into the net for 2-2.

Jack Watts' late equaliser secured a point for Malvern (Image: Cliff Williams)

Malvern were the side with the momentum and it was they who pushed for a late winner, but the game ended all square.