MALVERN Town fell at the first hurdle after manager Les Jones called for 12 points from their next four games.

The HDanywhere Community Stadium hosts took the lead twice, but lost 3-2 to bottom-half side Dudley Town in the West Midlands League Premier Division.

Malvern went ahead in the 21st minute when Sam Rathbone slotted home Matt Turner’s pass, after a move involving Jack Cullity and Lee Hooper.

But Hooper, Rathbone and Turner put chances wide, with Dudley making them pay on 34 minutes with the equaliser.

Following a couple of blocks, the ball fell for Shawn Devonport to fire into the net.

Turner’s header was held by keeper James Scarrett, before sixth-placed Malvern regained the lead in the 41st minute.

Cullity ran down the right and sent in a fierce cross, which defender Alex Byatt could only deflect into his own net.

Dudley’s Rion Francis-Mills chipped just over as Malvern maintained their 2-1 lead at half-time.

Passing football was difficult as the pitch cut up badly and the ball stuck in the mud.

A mix-up in Malvern’s defence allowed Dudley captain Lee Smith to blast in a 53rd-minute equaliser.

The hosts’ Reece King fired over and Dave Reynolds curled a shot against the angle of post and bar.

However, With 10 minutes left, Malvern’s Aaron Richards was sent off for a second yellow card.

Dudley took advantage with the winner five minutes from time through Devonport.

Malvern visit basement boys Wednesfield on Saturday (3pm).

The under-21s lost 3-1 at Sikh Hunters in Division Two, and host Worcester Olympic on Saturday (3pm).

Powick Rangers entertain leaders Darlaston Town (2pm).