Luctonians take derby day honours

Luctonians need to win their last two league games to make the play-offs

Luctonians won the local Midlands One derby against Malvern 15-3 to keep alive their play-off hopes.

A second-minute penalty from Lucs' Alex James opened the scoring before number eight Paul Hulland went over for a try, which James converted.

Chris Hooper's boot pulled back three points for Malvern but Andy Garrod finished a fine move to make it 15-3.

The second half was scoreless, with Lucs on top but Malvern keeping them out with some determined tackles.

Lucs stay in second place in Midlands One a point clear of Kenilworth - and three points behind leaders Broadstreet.

Malvern coach Dave Robins knows his team are safe from relegation

The defeat ended Malvern's fine league run but director of rugby Dave Robins was happy with his side's spirited showing.

"Although we are disappointed to have lost," he said, "the fact that we had so many changes was negated by the way every single player put his body on the line.

"We have tremendous spirit in the club, with players at all levels really wanting to wear the Malvern shirt."

Malvern take on Chester at Spring Lane while Luctonians go to Newport this Saturday (4 April). Coverage of both games on BBC Hereford & Worcester in Sport on Saturday.