MALVERN Town are looking forward to a “juicy” clash against Worksop Town in the first round of the FA Vase after a stunning fightback against Birstall United.

Dave Reynolds netted a 115th-minute winner as Malvern recovered from a 2-0 deficit to secure a dramatic 3-2 win at the HDanywhere Community Stadium last night.

The striker sparked Malvern into life when he scored from the spot on 70 minutes before Dene Whittal-Williams netted an equaliser in the dying seconds.

But it was “phenomenal” goalkeeper Chas Weaver who kept Town’s hopes of progressing in the competition alive.

Leading 2-1, Birstall had a chance to all but seal victory when they won a penalty late on but Weaver came to Malvern’s rescue.

And the keeper produced the goods again seven minutes into extra-time when he saved a second Birstall penalty.

Manager Les Jones insisted he “never lost hope” despite being seconds away from being knocked out and hailed his players’ “fantastic character”.

“I am absolutely delighted,” said Jones, whose side had also battled out a 2-2 draw over 120 minutes at Birstall on Saturday.

“To come from 2-0 down and get the winner in extra-time in front of a big crowd was fantastic.

“Earlier this month, we came back from 3-1 down to win 5-3 and it’s a different character each time who steps up and helps turn the game for us.

“On Wednesday night, Chas had a phenomenal game along with Dene and Reece King who drove us on.”

Malvern have been rewarded with a home tie against Northern Counties East League side Worksop on Saturday, October 22.

“It’s a really juicy tie,” Jones added.

“It’ll be extremely difficult as Worksop are a level above us and are a big club having come down a couple of leagues.

“So I hope all the town will get behind us and make it a really special day.”

However, Jones’ side’s attentions now turn to West Midlands League Premier Division action as they travel to Pegasus Juniors on Saturday (3pm).

“The last two games have been physically tough, so we may have picked up some knocks,” he said.

“I am hoping they will be OK as we need to be really up for this game.”

Meanwhile, Town have secured the signing of versatile Max Kontic-Coveney, who was playing for Hereford last season.