LEDBURY delivered a commanding performance to secure a decisive 38-7 victory over Malvern in the first round of the Papa John’s Men’s Community Cup.
The match took place on Saturday (April 12) at Ross Road.
After a disappointing league defeat the previous week, the home side fielded a considerably altered lineup, providing opportunities for several players from the Ledbury Lions and the second team.
Malvern also made multiple changes following their earlier defeat to Ledbury.
The home side started brightly, with their set-piece causing problems for Malvern.
Ledbury opened the scoring in the ninth minute when Arron Almond capitalised on an overthrown lineout to touch down, with Jack Hughes converting to make it 7-0.
Malvern struggled to penetrate a solid Ledbury defence, which remained resolute throughout the first half.
The hosts continued to create scoring opportunities, with John Parker breaking through tackles to set up further attacks.
After some sustained pressure, Ed Wallin barged over for a try in the 20th minute, again converted by Hughes, extending the lead to 14-0.
The physical dominance of Ledbury was evident, and Parker added to the tally with a superb try in the 25th minute, deftly rising a gap and strolling over to make it 21-0 after another successful conversion from Hughes.
Malvern responded just before half-time, with their number eight scoring a well-worked try to bring the score to 21-7.
However, the home side remained in control as the second half commenced, with their scrum continuing to trouble the visitors.
After Hughes returned from a yellow card, Ledbury built a coordinated attack that saw Blessing Mwaisoloka score between the posts, converted by Hughes to make it 28-7.
Despite some promising moves from Malvern, they failed to register any further points.
Hughes added a penalty to extend the lead to 31-7.
In the closing stages, Hughes intercepted a clearance kick and linked up with George Wallin, who scored a brilliant try from 40 metres out, bringing the final score to 38-7 after another conversion by Hughes.
Ledbury will look to build on the momentum as they prepare to face Stratford in the second round of the knockout competition on Saturday, April 26.
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