MALVERN v COOMBS WOOD

MALVERN travelled to Coombs Wood on Saturday and came away with a much-needed 24 Worcestershire County League Division Two points.

Malvern batted first, Andrew Cullen taking the attack to the home side before being dismissed for a bright 16. Ollie Bendall joined Mark Baugh, Bendall immediately went on the offensive dominating a second wicket partnership of 57 which was broken when Baugh was caught behind.

Rob Francis and Bendall were scoring freely and at 111-2 the platform for a massive score had been set but Bendall (62) was then out, and when Francis followed shortly after Malvern's innings fell away, closing on 196 all out in only 42 overs.

A very disappointing effort after such a bright start.

Malvern needed early wickets and they got them, as Francis accounted for Burgoyne and Jeremy Lee got rid off Whyte. The home side slumped to 31-5 but a good partnership put them back in the game and as 125-6 they game was in the balance.

A superb catch by John Kirkby put Malvern back in control and though Coombs Wood kept fighting Malvern just edged home by 13 runs.

Francis (5-55) with yet another five wickets was the main wicket-taker with Tom Poole also bowling another fine spell.

Malvern's league game on bank holiday Monday was abandoned due to rain with visiting Feckenham on 78-5. Malvern collected seven points.

Malvern visit Luctonians tomorrow (Saturday).