MALVERN Town won their 18th league game to extend their lead at the top of the Midland Alliance to six points with a game in hand over second-placed Romulus.

MALVERN TOWN 2, LOUGHBOROUGH DYNAMO 1

Although not playing their usual high-paced attacking game at Langland Stadium, Malvern, just about did enough to win, with both goals coming from set-pieces.

Malvern took the lead in the sixth minute when Nathan Jukes' inch-perfect quick free-kick was rocketed into the net by Darren Bullock's flying header.

The home side then had a flowing move ending with Duncan Preedy's cross being met by Mark Owen, but his shot was saved by Windgard.

Malvern then went on the defensive as Loughborough stepped up in search of an equaliser, Davis headed wide for the visitors before Alvin Jarvis rose unchallenged to head home.

Humphries then kept Malvern on level terms with a brilliant save from Davis. At the other end, Shepherd went close, narrowly heading wide.

Malvern started the second-half well and Jukes set up Owen, who totally mis-kicked in front of goal. Loughborough hit back and Jones fired wide.

Town's Phil Preedy had a shot deflected away for a corner before Malvern had two free-kicks. Windgard had to dive full-length to keep out Bullock's effort but from the second one, Mark Shepherd rose to head home powerfully from Jukes' free-kick.

Loughborough then upped their game and pushed Malvern back. Rich Tomkins' goal-line clearance kept Malvern in front then on a Malvern breakaway, Windgard saved from Owen.

With time running out, Humphries saved brilliantly from Andrews to give Malvern a hard-earned three points.

Malvern's new signing, Ashley Walker, a central defender from Kidderminster Harriers, fitted in well and the youngster was impressive, especially with his poise and awareness on the ball.