Malvern 18 pts Ross-on-Wye 12

WITH their unbeaten league season behind them, Ross were looking for a testing encounter as a warm-up for their Combination Cup matches this weekend and certainly got that in an entertaining clash with Malvern.

Malvern kicked an early penalty but Ross were soon into their stride, dominating territory and possession before an excellent move involving Hugh Bellamy, Adam Clements and Simon Gwynne provided the opening for Wayne Bishop to cut inside to score. Chris Gage added the conversion.

Malvern defended strongly as Ross continued to push forward and their resolute work brought its reward when their winger pounced on a mistake in midfield and raced 60 yards to score.

Worse followed for the visitors shortly afterwards when the Malvern number eight outpaced the Ross defence to score, leaving the south Herefordshire club 15-7 down after a half they had dominated.

Alistair Rees and TC Leach produced some good play to set up Andy Hunt to power over for a try with 15 minutes to play but Malvern hit back almost immediately with a penalty. And although Ross battled hard in the closing stages, they were unable to close the gap.