RAMPANT Droitwich Rugby Club maintained their 100 per cent start to the season at the top of Midlands Two West (South).

They beat second-placed Malvern 24-18 though their Worcestershire rivals earned a losing bonus to leave them six points off the summit.

Droitwich, who visit second-from-bottom Nuneaton Old Edwardians on Saturday, were rewarded for getting the game on at the Glyn Mitchell Memorial Ground.

Winger Brad Cook scored two tries in the first half while front rowers Rob Poke and captain James Shewell dived over in the second period watched by a large crowd.

Bobby Scott-Walker converted two of the four tries in difficult conditions for the kickers during an entertaining contest on a bitter afternoon.

Droitwich director of rugby Adam Drew said: “Although we won the game with a try bonus, there is still a lot for us to work on.

“We conceded too many penalties — I’d have to check the stats but possibly as many as Malvern — and I thought the forwards were a bit greedy with the third try, walking it in from the 22 when we could have spun it wide, but these are things we can work on.

“I was also disappointed with conceding the charge-down try late in the game which gifted Malvern a losing bonus point against the run of play. Malvern are an excellent team with some great backs if you let them play. We didn’t.

“I must thank everyone who made it up to the club early to get the game on despite the wintry conditions.

“My thanks also go to the referee, supporters and club staff.”

Droitwich scored first with Cook winning a kick and chase to the corner for an unconverted try.

Malvern’s pack forced their way over with Jon Bywater touching down and director of rugby Rob Cook’s extras gave the visitors a half-time lead.

Former Gloucester player Rob Cook extended the advantage with a penalty but then Droitwich powered to victory.

A strong driving maul allowed them to regain the initiative by two points but Malvern hit back with Bywater’s second score.

But Droitwich showed why they are top with a catch and drive to retake the lead.

Rob Cook’s penalty put Malvern in front by one but Droitwich had the final say as a penalty took them into the attacking 22 and another driving maul secured the winning converted try.

Malvern end the first half of the season on Saturday when they entertain Earlsdon at Spring Lane.