MALVERN battled through a seven-goal thriller to earn a place in the next round of the FA Cup.

MALVERN TOWN 4, MICKLEOVER SPORTS 3

In a thrilling cup tie, after a very cagey first half, the second half saw an exciting finale.

The first half started slowly and it was not until the 20th minute when, from the first serious attack from either side, the visitors went in front. Betteridge's cross saw the flat-footed home defence fail to get in a challenge and Kettle rose unopposed to head home.

Malvern equalised on 38 minutes when Bullock's quick free kick to Phil Preedy beat the defender and the ball went back for Mark Owen to score.

Malvern went in front after good play from Mark Shepherd, who was pole-axed in the box. The ball broke for Luke Whittington to put Malvern in front at the break.

On 48 minutes, Owen missed a good chance to increase the lead and on 55 minutes it was 2-2, when Kettle set-up Betteridge to score from close range.

Malvern went in front again when Shepherd laid the ball back to Phil Preedy, whose cross saw substitute Duncan Preedy powerfully head home with his first touch.

On 81 minutes, Malvern were reduced to ten men when Phil Preedy was sent off by referee Gratton for time-wasting after receiving his second yellow card.

This seemed to inspire Malvern and on 84 minutes, the tireless Shepherd threaded the ball to Duncan Preedy, who smashed home from 12 yards. There was still a sting in the tail when on 90 minutes, Betteridge fed Strzyzewki for a good goal.

Malvern Town still had two more good chances but Wilson saved well from Owen and Preedy and Humphries then denied Mickleover a replay when he saved well from Hanson.