MALVERN Women's Hockey Club were eagerly looking forward to this League fixture to capitalise on their previous week's good form, however this match was disappointing and very scrappy at times with Malvern's defence struggling to cover the well-drilled Bromsgrove attacks.

MALVERN WOMEN'S HOCKEY CLUB 1, BROMSGROVE 2

In goal Lucy Kelsall played well and showed much improved mobility making numerous saves to keep the visitor's score down to two.

As ever Nicky Harvey and Kerry Tudge played well in midfield but an overall lack of cohesion and understanding between the Malvern players gave Bromsgrove a deserved victory.

In the dying moments Malvern at last played to their ability and put together some strong moves which eventually led to a goal from Emily Swinswood.

Squad: Lucy Kelsall, Jeanette Tudge, Clare MacAleese, Nicky Jones, Nicky Harvey, Kerry Tudge, Louise Jelley, Sarah Hopkins, Katie Evans, Emily Swinswood.

Malvern will aim to improve their teamwork to play Kidderminster tomorrow (Saturday) in a re-arranged League fixture at the Chase, start 12.30pm.

Other than their Christmas Social (details tba) Malvern then have a break until January 6.