UNDERDOGS Malvern were foiled in their third North Midlands Cup final appearance.

They lost 27-3 to Solihull on a wet, muddy Stourbridge RFC pitch which suited the big Solihull pack far more.

With the ball like a bar of soap, Malvern's natural instinct to run from deep in their own half got them into trouble several times.

Solihull's pack featured several ex-professionals from the parent Pertemps Bees club.

A driving maul paved the way to the opening score in the 14th minute.

But Malvern fought their way into the Solihull half, forcing a series of penalties for Ryan Watkins to pull back three points.

Malvern were unable to match the power and mastery of the conditions shown by Solihull.

Just before half-time, the Malvern defensive line was breached by a converted try.

With more of the same in the second-half, Solihull crept further ahead with two penalties.

Even when they lost their scrum-half for 10 minutes, Malvern were unable to make the extra man count. The match was put out of reach by a penalty try for interference.

Malvern picked up their game and Richard Fleming was unlucky not to break free for a score towards the end.

Director of rugby David Robins said: "Solihull played the conditions far better than us, they used all the experience at their disposal and were far more streetwise.

"However, our lads have put in some great efforts this season in a period of rebuilding and will have learned a lot.

"We hope to strengthen the side in the close season with a mixture of new and returning players so we can make a determined push for promotion."