MALVERN Rugby Club start their crucial Midlands Two West run-up to Christmas tomorrow (Saturday) with a visit to Stoke.

Following their fabulous win at unbeaten table-toppers Burton a fortnight ago, Malvern now head the table with the same points as Burton but boasting a better points scored difference.

The trip to Stoke, who are in the bottom half of the table with four wins from nine games, should yield two points for the Spring Lane side but then two important home games follow.

The first visitors on December 11 will be third-placed Hinckley, who have only been on the losing end twice this season, and then comes what could be the title decider when Burton travel to Spring Lane on December 18.

Malvern have the psychological advantage after their recent win but Burton will be desperate to turn the tables.