MALVERN Town extended their unbeaten run to 11 games with a 2-0 home victory over Black Country Rangers.

Dan Noke's first senior goal and Dave Reynolds' strike on his home return secured the West Midlands League Premier Division points against opponents that went into the game level on points with Town.

Fourth-placed Malvern went close in the first period when Matt Turner's shot was cleared off the line and keeper Connor Hopkins produced a point-blank save from Reynolds.

Home keeper Charlie Weaver had to make an important stop but Town were also denied just before half-time when a header was ruled out for a push in the area.

Noke nodded Harry Clark's corner firmly home three minutes into the second half.

Turner went close twice before Reynolds made it two on 75 minutes after Hopkins failed to deal with a poor back-pass.

“Overall it was a very pleasing performance from the lads,” said Town co-manager Dene Whittal-Williams.

“We kept our shape extremely well and I felt we were very much in control of the game throughout.

“Defensively we were excellent. Dan and Adam Sauntson partnered well in the heart of the back-line and I was chuffed to see Dan get his first senior goal for the club.

“Our midfield pair managed the play well in the central areas and it was good to give George Hayes his first start for the club.

"He showed good energy and picked some nice passes. I am sure that in time he will settle in well and become a key member of the team.

“In attack our front-men linked up well at times and created some decent opportunities.

"Milky (Turner) pitched in with a good performance having not started for a few games whilst it was great to see Reyno (Reynolds) back on the scoresheet for the club.

“It may not be the prettiest goal he has scored but it shows that chasing lost causes can sometimes be rewarded.

“It’s great that we have been able to maintain our unbeaten run and as Lee (co-manager Hooper) suggested last week we can only keep the pressure on and hope that the teams around us slip up.

“We go into our next game at Bilston Town Community (on Saturday) full of positivity and optimism.”

Malvern: Weaver, Webb, Griffiths (Wickett 80), A Sauntson, Noke, Harris, Turner (Smith 83), Loader, Reynolds, Hayes (Fusco 82), Clark. Subs not used: Whittal-Williams, Hooper.