Malvern win the loose ball against Peterbrough on Saturday

Luctonians are still in contention for a play-off place after battling to a 12-7 win over Hinckley on Saturday.

Lucs relinquished top spot in Midlands One last week after three straight defeats but are still only one point behind league leaders Broadstreet.

Meanwhile Malvern are safe from relegation after their hard-fought 20-10 win over Peterborough.

The win was Malvern's fifth on the trot and takes them 10 points clear of bottom side Bedford.

Lucs were rewarded for their constant pressure when winger Pete Smith raced under the posts and a conversion by Chris James took them 7-0 in front.

They piled on more pressure and eventually number eight Paul Hulland increased his considerable try tally by barging his way over.

Home hooker Dave Masserella crashed over and his try was converted to take the score to 12-7.

It was a step up in intensity for us and just showed how good the spirit and camaraderie of this team has become Malvern's director of rugby David Robins

Despite Hinckley battling hard for the win, Lucs held on to collect the points.

Malvern wing Greg Summers gave his side the lead at home to Peterborough with an 18th-minute try, the only score of the first half.

With the wind at their backs, Malvern started the second half explosively as outside-centre James Martin crossed for a fine try.

From the restart Malvern full-back Chris Hooper went over and Cameron Pimlow put over the conversion.

Winger Alex Ciuchlejus replied with two tries for the Borough but a 72nd-minute penalty from Pimlow proved to be the days last scoring action.

Malvern's director of rugby David Robins told BBC Hereford & Worcester: "[It was] our best performance of the season.

"It was a step up in intensity for us and just showed how good the spirit and camaraderie of this team has become.

"They backed each other all the way through against quality opposition who play a very physical game.

"The lads weren't intimidated and got on with their own gameplan, took the first half then put in two killer scores right after the break."

Luctonians and Malvern clash in the North Midlands Cup at Mortimer's Park on Saturday 21 March (kick-off 1400 GMT) and admission is free.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version