MALVERN Town beat Haughmond 4-1 in the West Midlands League Premier Division as both sides were reduced to 10 men.

The hosts rode the tackles in the first-half and sparkled in the final 30 minutes, climbing up to fourth in the table before the midweek fixtures.

In the sixth minute, Dave Reynolds fired a low free-kick from just outside the area towards goal but it was deflected away by a Haughmond defender.

The corner was played deep to Joe Endacott, who volleyed the ball just over the bar.

Sam Jones' goal-kick fell short and Sam Rathbone ran into the box only for the keeper to make up for his error.

Kirk Layton had a shot pushed away by Jones after Aaron Richards and Reece King combined in the 26th minute.

Four minutes later, Rathbone burst up the left but his cross was fired wide by Lee Hooper.

Jones ensured a goalless first-half by tipping away Hooper's free-kick close to the break.

Seven minutes into the second period, Malvern were made to pay for their missed chances by Carl Rogers' looping header after keeper Chas Weaver denied Louie Irvine.

Malvern quickly hit back with Reynolds' effort gathered at the second attempt by Jones.

The HDanywhere Community Stadium hosts levelled on 67 minutes when Reynolds fired home for Ben Hayes' fine run and pull-back.

Five minutes later, Hayes ran up the right and sent in a penetrating cross which just lacked a decisive touch.

Ed Ashlin received his second yellow followed by a red card for Haughmond on 74 minutes.

Against 10 men, Malvern went ahead three minutes later when King headed in Hayes' cross.

But the numbers were evened up on 83 minutes when Town's Richards also received a second booking.

However, the home side finished stronger with two goals, starting with substitute Matt Turner on 89 minutes after Rathbone's shot was saved.

In the last minute, Turner repaid the favour to Rathbone, who side-stepped Jones and slotted home the final goal.

The under 21s drew 1-1 at Kington Town in Division Two, while Powick Rangers lost 1-0 at home to Bilbrook.

Division One leaders Bromyard Town won 2-1 at St Martins and host Penncroft on Saturday (3pm).