Malvern RFC

Malvern continue to exploit teams in the league as they grab a bonus point win away to Leamington. The home side were coming into this game in 5th spot after some impressive performances so far this season.

This game saw Jack Longley grab his 75th cap for the club and it also saw a first team debut awarded to Arran Carr, who’s been impressing in the 2nd’s side this season.

The weather once again proved to be a hinderance with a high number of dropped balls from both sides. A reshuffle in the midfield for Malvern didn’t help this, with Luke Milton moved to fly-half; Rob Cook to outside centre and Ethan Sommerwill at full-back.

The match started off slowly with both teams trying to adapt to the slippery conditions, but, as always, Malvern began the scoring. A dominant driving maul put Malvern in a good position inside Leamington’s five metre line. The ball was then shipped out to Sommerwill, who secured his first try for the club.

Another Malvern line out gathered momentum as the ball was inside the five metre line. The ball was then wizzed across to Lewis Hardiman to dive over in the corner to secure a try.

Malvern continued to keep the scoreboard ticking. The ball was shifted over to Hardiman, as he used his pace and agility to work his way over the whitewash. Bringing the halftime score to Leamington 0 - 17 Malvern.

Malvern started to lose their discipline in the second half. The referee having to march the visitors back several times due to backchat. This gave Leamington a chance to manufacture something to get themselves back into the game.

Shortly after, they did just that. Their forwards battled hard for many phases. Then the ball was popped up for their hooker to smash over the try line. However, Malvern maintained their distance as a Dan Batty penalty gave the visitors a 15 point lead going into the last part of the game.

The infamous bonus point was then secured, as Laurie Essenhigh charged down a kick that allowed him to dive onto the ball to secure the points.

Malvern continued to inflict punishment on the home side. A quick tap penalty was passed out to Sommerwill, where he used his blistering pace to get his second of the game. A penalty from Batty concluded the game with Malvern coming out on top.

Now Malvern look to the National Cup. Where they have a home fixture against a tough, robust Northampton Old Scouts side. Malvern are offering free entry for all spectators! Please come down to support the lads in this crucial fixture.

Up The Vern!