Claverley 161 Tenbury 162-7-

TENBURY claimed their first victory of the season when they produced a good bowling and fielding performance in humid conditions to restrict their Worcestershire League Division Four hosts Claverley to 161, then reaching their winning target off the second ball of the final over, with three wickets in hand.

Visiting skipper Joe Reynolds won the toss and elected to field in the heat of the day. Although the decision was not met with enthusiasm his team buckled down and made life awkward for the home batsmen.

Reynolds and Andy Adams bowled tightly and gave the team encouragement by each taking an early wicket.

It was the introduction of left arm spinner Aaron Morris which turned the match. He showed admirable control and, backed up by excellent ground fielding and catching, claimed 5-50 in an inspired spell to restrict Claverley to a modest 161.

Chris Giles and Ian Taylor made a steady start but with the total at 19 Taylor perished for 10.

This was the start of a minor collapse as Tenbury lost a couple of quick wickets, but Morris joined Giles to steady the ship.

Morris played the anchor role as Tenbury edged towards their target and when Giles departed for an excellent 64, they still required 21 runs for victory.

With wickets in hand Tenbury were clear favourites, but they lost wickets regularly as they chased that elusive first win.

It was left to skipper Reynolds and Darren Ingram to steer them home, with Ingram hitting the winning run .