MALVERN Town ended 2019 with a commanding 3-0 home victory over Shortwood United in Hellenic League Division One West.

Two first-half goals from George Hayes and a strike after the break from Kyonn Evans saw Malvern move up to fourth in the table with a deserved three points.

“It was a satisfying all-round performance,” said co-manager Lee Hooper.

“The whole squad, to a man, played their part with great work-rate and every battle won.

“In possession we kept the ball really well and created some good chances.

"If anything we could have been more clinical in front of goal and won by a bigger margin.

“To keep a clean sheet was also a great achievement, particularly as all of our centre-halves were missing, but the lads that stepped in did well in an unfamiliar role and I was also pleased for Pinds (chairman Chris Pinder) that he kept a clean sheet.

“The back-line were well protected by the midfield who dictated the pace of the game whilst the front two were great again and so difficult to defend against.

“Kyonn got his reward with the third goal whilst the wide men got up and down the pitch well and George deserved his two well-taken goals.

“All three substitutes made an impact and gave us that push for our third goal.

“It was a really pleasing performance for us and the fans who once more turned out in good numbers and really got behind us throughout.

"I am certainly very excited by what 2020 holds in store for the club.”

Hayes, who put in a lively and energetic display, said: “I was really happy with the team’s performance and the part that I played in it.

“We managed to show how good we are on our day, something that we haven’t been able to do as consistently as we would have liked so far.

“I was buzzing to get a couple of goals because they don’t come round too often for me!

“The ultimate thing is to ensure the team keeps picking up points and winning matches and hopefully I can carry on making a contribution.

“There’s definitely a buzz around the club at the moment, something that we can use to drive us on and keep building momentum.

“The level of support that we receive is also important. Our fans are first class and it’s nice to be able to give them something to cheer about.

“I’m really looking forward to what the new year holds in store for the club, with everyone working together we can really push on up the table.

“The new 3G pitch is quality, the same goes for all the other new facilities that we have here.

"It’s created a great atmosphere amongst the boys which we will be sure to channel into more good performances.

“My main aim as I look towards 2020 is to continue enjoying my football and help the team with more assists and goals along the way.”

Malvern: Pinder, Smith, Hunt, Harris, Craven (B Febery 77), Loader (Skidmore 63), Hayes, Turner (Platt 75), Evans, Reynolds, Clark. Sub not used: Hooper.

Attendance: 177.