WEST Malvern lost 4-1 at home to Hanley on Saturday to continue their disastrous start to the season due to players returning to university, injuries and suspensions.

WEST MALVERN 1, HANLEY SWAN 4

The West were always struggling to get a side with two players crying off injured on Saturday morning they thought things could not get worse.

But when two players failed to put in an appearance and two turned up ten minutes late they were forced to kick off with nine men.

By the time they were up to full strength after ten minutes they were already a goal down. The rearranged side began to find some semblance of team work and created chances but failed to make the most of them.

They went two down when a Hanley defender head home when left unmarked at a corner.

The second half started brightly for the West but once again they were caught flat footed at the back and allowed the Hanley midfield player to run through to make it 3-0.

West rallied briefly and reduced the arrears with a goal from Sebastian Butsford.

But not to be denied Hanley came back and scored a fourth once again from bad marking at a corner.

Tomorrow (Saturday) West Malvern are at home to Goodrest Sports in the league. Players meet at the dressing room 2pm.

The West are sponsored by Amey.