Sat 7 Dec 2019
Malvern 8 - 31 Stratford Upon Avon
Malvern finally lose their first game of the season against a hard-running, diligent Stratford side, who were worthy winners on the day.
This game was highly anticipated by supporters, with both teams flying high in the division. Malvern were looking to carry on their form after a strong cup performance the week before. Malvern were without Rob Cook for this game, but this saw a first-team debut for Harvey Smedley, who has been making an impression for the 2nd team this season.
Before the match commenced, both teams and their supporters paid their respects with a minute silence for the late John Barker. He was a real gentleman and had been a member of Malvern Rugby Club for many decades. Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones.
Malvern began the scoring through a Dan Batty penalty, after an offside penalty from the opposition. Stratford tried to level the scoring through a penalty of their own but failed to convert.
However, soon after, Stratford did mange to get onto the scoresheet. Their forwards worked up a a good position inside Malvern’s 22-metre line, the ball was then put through the hands for their winger the go over for the score.
Stratford then had a man put in the bin after many penalty offences in the red zone. Malvern failed to capitalise on the man advantage, and it was Stratford who got on the scoresheet again. An extremely powerful driving maul pushed Malvern back over their own try line.
Malvern managed to get back into the game through a try. A number of ‘pick-and-go’s’ allowed Malvern to get into a strong position inside the visitors half. Laurie Essenhigh then decided to put the ball down the blindside, where Luke Milton wrestled over in the corner.
Unfortunately for Malvern, this was short lived. Stratford regained the lead with two tries in quick succession. This saw Malvern trailing by 18 points at the break, a very unusual situation for Malvern; something they haven’t experienced at all this season.
The second half demonstrated the defensive quality that Stratford posses as they managed to keep Malvern scoreless during this period of the game. The home side saw a lot of the ball but failed to use this possession to their advantage.
With 5 minutes to go, Stratford sealed their win. After a loose line out, Stratford’s flanker reacted first and ran the ball over for the points, ending the game miserably for Malvern.
This game ended Malvern’s 10 game unbeaten streak, after a blistering start to the league campaign. Malvern look to bounce back next Saturday against league leaders Nuneaton Old Edwardians at Spring Lane. This game promises to be another cracker!
Up The Vern!
Ash Bajwa
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