ONLY a second-half own goal consigned Malvern Town to a 1-0 weekend defeat at leaders Bridgnorth in the West Midlands League Premier Division.

Les Jones’ sixth-placed side played down the slope in the first-half and James Lush was fouled on the edge of the box in the first minute.

As a result, Lee Hooper’s cross-shot was dropped by Bridgnorth keeper Chris Cook but no-one could get to the loose ball.

The hosts threatened on 12 minutes when Liam Bood shot wide but otherwise Malvern had the brighter moments.

Hooper’s corner was headed on by Joe Endacott but deflected out for another corner.

In the 32nd minute, Matt Turner hit the bar with a volley and then Kirk Layton’s shot hit a defender and was cleared off the line.

But Malvern keeper Chas Weaver had to be at his best to save from Karl Griffiths on 38 minutes.

A minute before half-time, Malvern’s Lush crossed to Harry Wickett but his shot was deflected over.

Malvern started the second-half in similar fashion to the first as the home keeper dropped another cross but the visitors could not force the ball home.

However, disaster struck in the 48th minute as the ball was played down the slope on the right-hand side and then crossed into the Malvern box.

Weaver dived and just got his fingertips to the ball but deflected it onto defender Endacott, who was sliding behind him, and the ball went into the net to give Bridgnorth an unlikely lead.

Malvern searched for an equaliser without joy as Endacott tried to make amends only to head over from a corner in a rare chance as Bridgnorth held on.

Town keeper Weaver had to be replaced by Niall Hacking after a nasty collision, suffering suspected broken ribs.

The under 21s moved up to seventh in Division Two after a 2-1 home win over leaders Oakengates Athletic and have a county derby at Worcester Olympic tomorrow (2pm).

Ben Hayes and Jake Hollylee netted.

Malvern’s under 18s won 2-0 at local rivals Bromyard Town to go third in the Midland Floodlit Youth League Southern Division.

Sam Daffin and Sam Hayes scored the goals.

Meanwhile, West Midlands League Division One leaders Bromyard Town drew 1-1 at Hereford Lads Club in a county derby.

They host Shenstone Pathfinders tomorrow (3pm).

Powick Rangers beat Bredon 4-2 in the Worcestershire FA Saturday Junior Cup second round.

David Perera, James Argent and Sam Harper were on target alongside an own goal.

Bromyard lead The Hereford Times Herefordshire League Division One by three points from Ledbury Town Reserves.

They won 4-1 at Brimfield with Chris Jefferson (2) and Dale Allen among the scorers.