MALVERN produced a spirited fightback in a narrow 22-19 defeat against Newark in the National Under 17s Cup Midlands divisional semi-final at Spring Lane.

An impressive Newark outclassed Malvern in the opening 25 minutes to open up a 22-7 lead which ultimately proved the difference in an enthralling contest.

Newark belied their two-hour journey to Worcestershire and started at pace, which left Malvern supporters fearing a rout.

Malvern were second best in all aspects of the game and were starved of possession and territory in the early stages.

However, Malvern hit back and, against the run of play, scored an outstanding individual try from flanker John Friths, in his first full match after a serious leg injury.

Dan Batty slotted the conversion to put Malvern 7-0 ahead.

Newark made a swift response and drew level with a converted score. After gathering a line-out on the Malvern 22, Newark showed quick hands for the winger to score a fine try.

Newark dominated the next 10 minutes, repeatedly recycling ball leaving Malvern flat-footed.

Another try was inevitable and arrived after another cleared out ruck on the Malvern five-metre line and a clever switch to the blind side which resulted in a simple converted try.

Newark looked in control and notched their third try with a piece of individual brilliance.

Newark’s centre chipped the ball on half-way, caught his own kick, kicked through again and the visitors recovered possession to open up a 19-7 advantage.

Newark were now all over Malvern and only a superb tackle prevented them from running in a fourth try. However, Newark were awarded a penalty from an offence at a ruck and they stretched their lead to 22-7.

Malvern looked in deep trouble with little likelihood of getting back into the contest but they gradually managed to get some possession and started to gain a foothold.

A moment of magic from Malvern Number 8 Jack Curtis inspired the hosts, outstripping the Newark backs to score near the posts and Batty converted.

Malvern ended the first-half 22-14 down but, with the wind at their backs, took control of the tie in the second-half.

They opted to kick and competed for everything. Malvern began to apply pressure on the Newark line which held firm without clearing their half.

Dan Batty tapped and barrelled over the line from a five-metre scrum to cut the deficit to just three points with six minutes remaining.

Malvern attacked relentlessly in the dying minutes but each time Newark somehow cleared the danger.

The last minute became an arm-wrestle for possession which Newark eventually won before the full-time whistle sounded to bring an end to Malvern’s cup run.