WITH their Powergen Cup exploits over after narrow defeat by Walsall last Saturday, Malvern embark on the new league programme with a tough away fixture against Whitchurch tomorrow (Saturday).

The North Shropshire side have had four seasons in the National League playing against Northern clubs, so will have a wealth of experience.

Malvern's director of rugby David Robins is upbeat about his side's chances of consolidating themselves in the Midlands One division but knows that every game will be fought to the finish.

Robins said: "With a solid performance last week and excellent training sessions, the team has prepared well for the league campaign, which is likely to be even tougher this year. It would appear that more sides are paying players and attracting professionals from the National leagues, so we will have to treat every game like a cup tie."

Although final team selection is not made until late last night (Thursday), the probable side features some changes from the Walsall match.

Malvern bring in University College, Worcester centre Andrew Isaac, who joins returning lock Chris Smith on the bench. Andy Logan retains the hooker position, with James Daniell and the fit-again Shaun Lancett propping. Matt Williams joins skipper Vince Hill in the second row, Paul Hart is at number eight, with Simon Reiter and Dave Hill on the flanks. Sam Hardcastle again starts at scrum half with George Blakeway unavailable, partnering fly half Paul Jenkin; whilst the back line is unchanged and full back Richard Fleming has his farewell game before starting his university career. Tim Allies is the replacement prop under the rotational system.