SWASH-BUCKLING centre Andy McLellan's 26-point haul ensured relegation battling Kidderminster Carolians RFC grabbed a vital 31-18 win over Old Coventrians at Marlpool Lane on Saturday.

McLellan was in sparkling form as KCs got back on track in the Midlands Division Three West (South) after two defeats.

Victory ensured that they remain third from bottom and stretched their lead over Old Silhillians, who occupy the drop zone, to three points.

The versatile McLellan kicked six penalties and a drop goal and scored a fine try to take some of the pressure off embattled KCs.

He opened his account after only two minutes with a penalty but a wayward pass put the hosts in trouble behind their own tryline and from the resulting five metre scrum the visitors won a penalty to level the scores.

A great break by John Mounter opened up the visitor's defence and right wing Craig Wilkinson finished off the move for an excellent try.

A slip by the home side allowed Coventrians to grab a converted try and take a 10-8 lead.

KCs battled back into the match and a drive from the back of a scrum by Layton Wilkinson put McLellan in possession and a silky break saw him sprint away for an individual try.

But the hosts were dragged level by a penalty in the final minute of the first half.

KCs though took control of the game after the break and three McLellan penalties gave them a 22-13 lead.

The visitors hit back with a try but the missed conversion gave the hosts confidence.

McLellan made sure of a much-needed victory by scoring two penalties, with a drop-goal sandwiched in-between.

KCs face a tough task on Saturday when they take on leaders Leamington away. If they avoid defeat they could ensure their place in the division for next season.