MALVERN Rugby Club’s colts put on a brave display in earning a try bonus point from an enthralling 45-26 defeat at a powerful Walsall team.

The young visitors went 21-0 down after 20 minutes but responded with Bertie Bannister’s well-worked try converted by George Blannin.

In the second half Malvern controlled a lot of the play as a further try from Bannister and a thrilling Finn Potter score were both converted by Blannin to make it 21-21.

However, a speculative kick on the 4G pitch led to a try as Walsall surged back ahead.

Malvern dug deep and Will Hughes was hauled down with the ball recycled for Bannister to complete his hat-trick.

The conversion was just missed but an older Walsall side then bagged two tries to secure the success.

Malvern coach Gareth Richards said: “The colts will take heart playing away to an older and larger set of colts. The Malvern character in adversity was awesome.

“Our squad numbers are increasing and going forward we are in a good place. This bodes well for the club.’’

Malvern’s first XV host Nuneaton Old Edwardians in Midlands Two West (South) on Saturday in a third v second clash.

Last weekend’s game with Leamington was postponed due to a waterlogged Spring Lane pitch.