AFTER narrowly failing to pip Hereford at the death three weeks ago in the Midlands One encounter, Malvern's improving rugby team travel to Wyeside in the Intermediate Cup tomorrow (Saturday).

Director of Rugby, Dave Robins said: "Having hauled ourselves back from a 17 point deficit in a match where we were under strength and not as canny as we should have been, the lads have improved tremendously and are now up to pace with Midlands One rugby.

"We put in a superbly controlled performance to beat Luctonians soundly last Saturday and the mood in the squad is upbeat."

Malvern rest double try scorer Rob Young, on the bench to allow ex Hereford veteran Dave Beech another run out against his old club. Former Northampton and Worcester back row specialist Dave Merlin makes his competitive debut for the Spring Lane outfit at flanker following the termination of his physio duties at Sixways, whilst new boy David Viles comes in at number eight.

A student at the University in Worcester, Viles has been in the Coventry Development Squad and has also played at under 21 level at Sixways and had a taste of the same at Newport.

Wily veteran prop Kim Withnall gives James Daniel a breather on the bench, and former Dudley-Kingswinford centre Andrew Ruddock joins Ridley, Daniel and Young as a replacement.

Robins continued: "Having played catch-up rugby at home to Hereford, we know that they are strong going forward but have weaknesses under pressure. Their physical game can become indisciplined when they are forced backwards, as we saw at Spring Lane.

"We must try to take the initiative from the off, as we did against Luctonians to stifle their danger men."

Robins only worry is scrum half George Blakeway, nursing a recent wound which turned septic.

Robins concluded: "The antibiotics seem to be working, but we won't risk George if he doesn't feel 100 per cent. Dan Sparrey, now back to full match fitness, is on stand-by if required.

Malvern expect a good travelling support for the game, which kicks off at 3pm.