MALVERN remained top of the Midland Alliance with this narrow victory against a well-organised Quorn on Saturday.

MALVERN TOWN 2, QUORN 1

That lasted until Tuesday when Stourbridge edged ahead with a 3-2 win over Cradley.

Malvern had Ashley Walker back to strengthen the defence and Duncan Willetts started in preference to leading scorer Mark Owen.

Malvern threatened early on and Burrows' effort was deflected for a corner. After a spell of Malvern pressure, Quorn broke away and took the lead when Craig Humphries made a point- blank save from Griffiths but the striker had time and space to net the rebound.

Malvern responded and a quick throw-in by Duncan Preedy saw Steve Lutz's first-time cross netted by Duncan Willetts close in.

Malvern kept up the pressure and Nathan Jukes' cross-field pass resulted in Phil Preedy's volley forcing a diving save by Nurse at the foot of the post.

Griffiths should have put the visitors back in front just before the break but mis-kicked in front of goal.

Malvern started the second-half still on top with Willetts and Mark Shepherd both going close. Quorn were still dangerous on the break and Humphries saved well from Sherlock. Malvern looked better when playing ball to feet instead of some of their long-ball tactics.

Willetts caused trouble with his jinking runs and tried to get his flank players going. He sent Duncan Preedy through but the winger failed to control the ball.

Malvern deservedly took the lead when Nathan Jukes fired home a twice-taken free-kick from 20 yards. They then had two great chances to increase their lead but headers from Lutz and Willetts both just missed the target.

The nearest the visitors got to an equaliser was when a sliced clearance by Burrows saw Humphries diving full length to save.

Tomorrow (Saturday), Malvern Town are away at Biddulph Victoria (3.00).

A supporters' coach to Biddulph will be leaving Langland Stadium at 11.30am and the Three Pears, Warndon, Worcester, at noon.