MALVERN U15s began their North Midlands Cup campaign in cold and muddy conditions on Sunday, and had to work hard against tough opposition before grinding out a victory.

CAMP HILL U15s 5pts, MALVERN U15s 24pts

Missing several key players, Adam Blackmore's side took some time to settle and were on the back foot during most of the early exchanges. The pressure was finally relieved when Ross Tolley took a tap penalty, the backs ran the ball to within yards of their opponents' line and Richie Richardson burst from the ensuing maul to cross over for a try.

The home side then lost possession at their own line-out and could then only watch as the ball flew along the three-quarter line for a brilliant score in the opposite corner.

The second half began in similar style, with Ross Tolley converting another breakaway try. But Camp Hill refused to give up and after poor defending of a kick ahead Malvern conceded their first points of the season which lifted their opponents. Another score now and things might have finished differently. But Malvern defended in numbers, rode the storm and had the last word with a try by Liam Maloney after the forwards had driven over 20 metres. Tolley again converted.

There were several unsung heroes in Sunday's game. Dominic Taylor fitted in well at fly half, with good hands and quick distribution, Andy Powell worked tirelessly on and off the ball, and Marc Soley took a big hit setting up the second try. But above all it was team spirit which saw Malvern home, along with their ability to make the most of limited possession.