FROM the outset Malvern U9s took the game to a strong Old Halesonians mixed U9/U10 side.

Joe Budd, taking the ball straight from the kick-off, scythed through the home defence as if it wasn't there. The home team came back with a vengeance, using their bigger players as battering rams.

Eric Carlen again excelled in his ferociousness, tackling and driving forwards, and the mercurial man of the match Matt Wren turned his team's aggression into points.

It was really all over at half time Malvern leading by three tries to nil.

The second half followed the same pattern. Rhys Williams was outstanding with his sniping runs. James Merley, Sam Beale and Peter Milnes were ruthless in applying the pressure. Nat Wallis and Matt Wren adding to the scoreline. Pemberton scored a consolation try for the home side before Matt Wren sealed the victory with a fine individual try. Final score 30-5 to Malvern.