MALVERN Rugby Club director of rugby David Robins believes his side has what it takes to win promotion from Midlands Two (West) after an 18-7 victory over Newbold.

Malvern made six changes through injury and non-availability for a match played at a rain-soaked Spring Lane.

And Robins said: "Any team that can suffer six changes and win in conditions like these has to be in contention for promotion. There's lots of spirit in this team -- they want the league title and we go to Stafford next week in fine spirits.

"Nick Smith, man of the match, was outstanding and the front five had an enormous game, beating Newbold in the strongest area."

Robins also believes winning leagues is not just about the starting 15 but the 30 in the squad who provide strength in depth.

Whipped

With Andy Longley, the league's leading kicker, still sidelined by injury, Steve Ott took over kicking duties and opened Malvern's account with a tenth minute penalty.

The Warwickshire side gradually came into the game and took the lead when hooker Taylor went over from a driving maul and stand-off Pope converted.

Malvern led at half-time after the ball was whipped out to Young from a penalty and he went over, making him the league's top scorer.

When Newbold dared to venture into Malvern's 22-metre area, Richard Fleming was there to give his most assured game to date.

The young full back joined the attacks, going over the line at one point but was unable to ground the ball.

Malvern moved closer to victory when Steve Ott kicked another penalty. But the killer punch was delivered by Fleming in some style after midfield general Gareth Richards rang the changes and Ott took the final two points.

Meanwhile, Droitwich Spa continued their poor start to season with a 17-0 home defeat to Silhillians in horrible conditions.

The wet conditions played their part in what a scrappy encounter won by the team adapting conditions best.

The first-half was even with both teams making handling errors. But it was the visitors who made the breakthrough on the 30-minute mark when they went over for a converted try after a good period of pressure camped on the Droitwich five-metre line.

After a spell of second-half pressure in the Droitwich half, Old Sihillians extended their lead with a penalty after a Droitwich infringement.

Twenty minutes into the half and the visitors killed the game off with a second try after finding a gap in the home back line.

Droitwich fought back with Gareth Knight going close with a superb solo run late on.