MALVERN Rugby Club coach Rudy Smith believes his side will come up against their biggest test of the season so far on Saturday.

The Spring Lane side travel to Old Laurentians in Midlands West Two buoyant after their fine start to the season.

Malvern, who have won five out of five games so far, lead the table on goal difference from Hinckley and Old Laurentians.

The Fenley Field club also have a one hundred per cent record in the competition and Smith knows something will have to give at the weekend.

He said: "We will know how good we are after Saturday's trip.

"It is, without doubt, the biggest test so far this season - it's a massive game for us. Old Laurentians and Hinckley will be our main rivals for the title so it is important that we get a result against them."

Smith makes a number of changes to the side which dismissed Belgrave 36-0 at home on Saturday. Out go second rows Chris Smith and Duncan Short to be replaced by John Owen and Vince Hill. Also George Blakeway comes in at scrum half for Dan Sparrey. Dave Beech and Mark Humphries also return.

"It's just a case of rotating the squad because I have a very solid squad system," said Smith.

He added: "I thought the team did very well against Belgrave because it wasn't the best of games. The visitors just wanted to spoil it with physical tactics - basically because they knew they weren't as good as us. I think the return fixture at their place will be very interesting next year.

"There is still a lot more to come from Malvern this year and although we are top I want us to improve our performances because we have some tough games coming up including Bromsgrove and Hinckley."

Meanwhile Malvern have boosted their squad with the signing of former Worcester development squad prop Carl Thomas and former England colt, hooker Andy Logan.

Director of rugby, David Robins said: "With the loss of Mike Boardman we tried to recruit a player from a local side in the lower leagues but were frustrated in our efforts.

"With the pressures of a longer league season and the possibility of a good run in the intermediate county cups, we are delighted that Carl and Andy have come to Spring Lane."