MALVERN were left to rue attacking errors in a 21-5 Midlands One West derby defeat at Worcester.

In the first league match between the rivals Worcester used the wind and slope to their advantage throughout the first half to enjoy most of the territory.

They went ahead through a penalty from ex-Malvern centre Ollie Meadows after the visitors had to defend desperately.

Worcester dominated the set scrums which led to a further penalty from Meadows to double the advantage.

Another penalty resulted in a Worcester scrum and a converted try as Malvern's defence was kept under the cosh.

Just before the break a Malvern fumble let the city outfit in for another score and a half-time lead of 21-0.

Despite the slope and conditions in the Spring Lane club's favour an initial period of Worcester possession was successfully defended.

Improving Malvern then started to dominate amid waves of attacks through kicking deep into home territory.

However, attacks fizzled out due to knock-ons or dropped passes.

Third-from-bottom Malvern were denied a certain score when the referee blew the whistle for a suspected head injury although the player involved was up quickly.

As the penalty count mounted in their favour Malvern finally scored from a catch-and-drive after a lineout with Glen Potter touching down.

Ninth-placed Worcester defended extremely well though at the cost of two men in the sin-bin for repeatedly offending.

But Malvern could not break through again as Worcester took the local bragging rights.

Malvern were left to rue the mistakes that led to attacks breaking down which would have seen more tries on the board.

They host second-from-bottom Moseley Oak on Saturday (2.15pm) for another crucial match before welcoming title-chasers Newbold-on-Avon on December 8.