HANLEY Castle and Upton were soundly beaten by a spirited and efficient Himbleton team in their latest WCL division four fixture.

HIMBLETON V HANLEY CASTLE & UPTON

Finding themselves batting on a lively track and in cloudy and humid conditions, the Hanley batsmen struggled to find any form.

Only Richard Watkins (42) and Simon Rawlings (50) were able to construct anything like a reasonable stay at the wicket. A series of poor shots and superb catching saw all of the Hanley wickets fall as catches.

Slow right arm spinner Taylor was the main beneficiary of the generosity from the Hanley players as he claimed five wickets for 16 runs in only six overs. The final total of 166 all out was a modest effort on such a small ground.

Tony Hutchings continued his recent good form with the ball and had all of the Himbleton players ducking and diving, his 2-51 was scant return for another terrific display of attacking bowling.

The Himbleton batsman rode their luck, built partnerships and dug in resolutely as their target came in sight. Murray (49) and Oliver (41no) were the highest scorers but they were assisted by some big hits from Thomas (35no).

Tomorrow (Saturday) Hanley and Upton entertain league leaders Old Halesonians.