AT the final count Malvern Town would not have been too disappointed with a point against a rapidly improving Star side in this Banks's League Premier Division fixture on Wednesday night.

STAR 1, MALVERN TOWN 1

But during the first half it might have been a different story, with Town generally in control of the game and they were left kicking themselves when a scrappy 44th minute equaliser prevented them from going in one up at the break.

Showing a number of changes with Dave Cannon and Matt Upton making their first first team starts of the season and also switching to a three at the back and five in midfield, Town's approach play was in sharp contrast to the home side's direct approach and it was no real surprise when leading scorer Andy Shepherd broke free of his marker, to superbly loft the ball over the on rushing keeper to give Town a 25th minute lead.

Five minutes later Shepherd broke free of his marker and crossed to the impressive Upton who saw his overhead kick come back off the foot of the post.

Star had posed little threat at this stage, but Town paid a heavy price for some sloppy play in the 44th minute, losing possession in midfield the ball was played into the box, no one took responsibility to clear and a lone Star striker nipped in to scramble the ball over the line.

The second period saw the home side come more into the game and their attempts to get the ball forward quickly started to ruffle the Malvern defence.

Town's hearts were in their mouths on two occasions, once when it appeared that Star had taken the lead, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside and then Star had claims for a penalty turned down, despite vociferous protests.

Malvern gradually regained their composure and started to press once again. Dene Whittal - Williams saw a ferocious drive flash narrowly wide and Raj Sharma fired over, Whittal - Williams then headed into the side netting.

In the 89th minute Town had their own appeals for a penalty waived away, when a Steve Walker free kick appeared to be blocked by a hand in the crowed penalty area.

This was an improved Town performance and one that will help build confidence prior to next Monday's WFA Senior Urn final.

Town assistant manager Richard Anson said: "We changed the system a bit and brought a couple of players in for their first starts of the season and I think we can feel reasonably pleased with the nights work. There were one or two excellent individual performances."

Town: Sanders, Cannon, Damore, Clayton, Sharma, Walker, Whitall-Williams, Phillpotts, Slade, Shepherd, Upton, Subs (not used) Jones, Sollis.