DELIGHT after recording their first Crusader Worce-stershire County League win of the summer turned to despair when Pershore could only land a losing draw at basement outfit Pedmore.

Saturday's crucial first division clash saw skipper Trevor Ridings ask their fellow strugglers to bat first and early wickets were taken on a track that proved even more helpful to the bowlers as the match advanced.

However, a stand of 105 between Danny McDonnell and Matt Porter helped the hosts reach 172 from their 50 overs despite losing five wickets in an incredible last over.

Lee Wilks improved his figures with two wickets in a spell of 5-60, while there were also three run-outs in six balls of chaotic action.

Fielding five players under 19, Pershore were never in the hunt as only Ben Bales (32) came to terms with the home attack.

It was left to almost 90 minutes of resistance from Paul Bozward (28) to deny Pedmore a first outright win of the season as Pershore's reply closed on a disappointing 132-9.

There was better news from The Bottoms where the club's second string made it three wins on the bounce.

Pedmore started well when inserted but Dave Corfield (4-67), Rich Pearman (2-15) and veteran John Brookes (2-40) bowled well to restrict the visitors to 194-9 from their 50 overs.

Corfield (39) then produced the goods with the bat, adding 69 off 12 overs for the first wicket with Phil Taylor (30).

Once departed, skipper Steve Meers came to the crease and his undefeated half-century steered Pershore to a five-wicket win helped by an incredible 50 extras!

Lack of availability has forced the club to withdraw its second team from the Worcestershire Sunday Clubs League.