MALVERN travelled to Dudley Kingswinford on Sunday and were able to wear the shirts donated by HSBC for the first time.

DUDLEY KINSWINFORD U16S 5pts, HSBC MALVERN U16S 19pts

Malvern were not at full strength, but had the welcome return of Mike Wenden.

The conditions were poor to say the least, with strong wind and rain lashing the pitch, and although Malvern ran out worthy winners, they were not playing to their full capability.

The whole team had worked well to create the space for Martin Tilley to score in the corner. The forwards were driving the opposition back in most of the rucks and mauls, but were letting themselves down in the line outs.

That was the only score for the first half, and with the wind against the in the second half, Malvern should have found it more difficult, but J P McCumisky and Liam Miller both showed their strengths on the wings, J P McCumisky has speed and Liam Miler determination. Both scored a try, both converted by Martin Tilley, after good work by all the team.

Mike Wenden's return was short lived with him having to leave the field at the end of the first half.

He was ably replaced by Jason Tolley, but with Rob Harker having to leave the field halfway through the second half, Malvern were forced to defend for the remainder of the match.

Dudley Kingswinford scored an unconverted try, but it was because of Malvern's silly mistakes at penalties, rather than poor defence.

Playing at less than at their best and winning is an indication of how strong HSBC Malvern Under 16's are, but if they are to compete with the best teams for the rest of the season they will need to control their game more.