HIMBLETON CC First XI had wayward bowling to thank for a 41-run victory at Alveley.

Both sides scored 112 with the bat from their innings but Himbleton moved into third in Worcestershire County League Division Four via 60 extras conceded by the hosts.

Captain Oliver said: "I am very pleased that we are third and very pleased that we are still undefeated.

"I expected a good battle against Alveley but it became a very one sided game. I expected more, their batting has always been their strength but it lacked any sort of confidence.

"Very good bowling ensured we did not accumulate a big score, however praise must go to the four Himbleton bowlers - Sam Jenkins, Jamie Alford, Steve Mills and Richard Pretty - who stuck at their task and ensured we collected maximum points."

Alveley, relegated from Division Three last year, won the toss and elected to field.

Himbleton got off to a slow start due to some fine bowling from Ian Waugh and Nick Turford. Steady progress was made though, with the highlight of the innings an unbeaten 49 from skipper Dean Oliver. Veteran Pete Rogers also contributed 30.

But almost a third of Himbleton's 172-6 were given to them by their hosts, who conceded 60 extras. Tim Weaver was the pick of the Alveley bowling, taking 5-37.

Alveley's reply started poorly and they lost wickets steadily throughout, with the final pair coming to the wicket with the score at 89-9.

Some big hitting by Dean Baker and Rich Turford put panic into the Himbleton ranks before 15-year-old Jamie Alford ensured victory by 41 runs by bowling Baker.

l Himbleton Seconds won the reverse fixture by three wickets.

After bowling Alveley out for 231, thanks to G Wright's 5-73, C Wright hit an excellent 127 to steer the hosts home.