WORCESTER Wanderers began 2017 with a 29-13 home defeat to high-flying Burton in Midlands One West.
They slipped to second from bottom in the table as a result but only three points separate ninth position and Wanderers in 13th.
Hereford are five points off in eighth after a low-scoring 9-0 home win over Whitchurch.
Wanderers have a big game at Weston’s Fields on Saturday (2.15pm) when Stoke, who are one point ahead in 11th, visit.
Malvern won 16-15 at Pinley in a feisty Midlands Two West (South) encounter.
Pinley bagged the opening converted try but full-back Ben King kicked a penalty and then added the extras when centre Rory Atkins scored for the visitors.
In the second half, Malvern’s Glen Potter was sin-binned and Pinley went ahead with an unconverted try.
But the penalty count against the hosts mounted and King made it 13-12.
A 40-metre penalty gave Pinley the lead late on but King responded in style from 45 metres out to seal a well-deserved Malvern win.
Droitwich took another step towards the Midlands Three West (South) title ahead of a big cup tie.
Spa won 32-10 at basement boys Bedworth to extend their 100 per cent record in the league to 12 games after relegation last season.
They are 11 points ahead of second-placed Ledbury and visit Northampton Casuals in the RFU Midlands Senior Vase semi-finals on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer of the Year Awards have been launched with England Rugby.
They are part of the Volunteer Recognition Programme with prizes from match-day hospitality to unique experiences.
Club members, players and supporters can nominate a volunteer who has made a real difference. Nominations are open until noon on Monday, February 20.
For more details, visit englandrugby.com/mitsubishivolunteers.
OTHER RESULTS
National League Three South West: Dings Crusaders 40 Bromsgrove 13.
Midlands Three West (South): Shipston-on-Stour 17 Ledbury 31.
Division Four West (South): Alcester 27 Bromyard 10; Pershore 20 Coventry Welsh 22; Redditch 22 Coventrians 15.
Division Five West (North): Greyhound 3 Tenbury 11; Market Drayton 60 Stourport 0.
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