EVESHAM Rugby Club’s fortunes are unchanged in Midlands Two West (South).

They remain precariously positioned just above the drop zone in 10th position after a 44-12 home defeat to third-placed Malvern.

The visitors dominated the first half with two converted tries and two penalties to lead 20-0 at the break.

Four more tries followed for Malvern in the second period but Evesham did produce some good passages of play.

Wilf Watson and Jack Jeffery both scored well-taken tries with Mike Diston converting one.

Evesham entertain second-placed Nuneaton Old Edwardians on Saturday (2.15pm).

Meanwhile, Pershore returned to winning ways with a 25-0 victory over fourth-placed Old Yardleians in a game switched to Worcester with Mill Lane unplayable.

It was perhaps Pershore’s strongest showing of the season as they controlled the ball and played the elements smartly.

Martin Hope, Richard Smith, Tobie Vermeire and Luke Hardiman’s forceful running laid the platform with speedsters Ash White, Stef Ellis and Dave Oliver causing havoc on the outside.

Tries from Ellis, George Meadows and Oliver plus two conversions and two penalties from Oliver gave Pershore a deserved 25-0 lead at the interval.

Old Yards stepped up their game but resolute defending and clearances kept the visitors out.

Brian Ranns and Greg Hitchcock tackled well ably assisted by Josh Hardiman and Nick Creswick, allowing Damien May and Dan Mayfield to steal ball at will.

Seventh-placed Pershore host leaders Upton on Saturday.

Bredon Star visit Cheltenham Civil Service in Wadworth Gloucestershire Two North on Saturday.