BARNARDS Green 'singles' first ever match in the Crusader Worcestershire County League Division Five was spoilt by the weather.

Despite being in a commanding position the Green lost out by 0.02 of a run when play was abandoned with seven overs left.

Freeman won the toss and asked Cutnall Green to bat, believing local weather forecasters that the day would brighten up, sadly his faith was misplaced. Cutnall, in the shape of Neil Fletcher dominated the innings with his usual assured display and found a much needed ally in Derek Higgins following the loss of two early wickets to Spiers.

Green rotated the bowlers and it was the introduction of divisional debutante Phil Spencer that did the trick. The wily campaigner kept things tight and deceived Higgins (34) with his googly. The deep set field was frustrating Fletcher as Spencer nipped in for two more wickets. Fletcher then tried to hoist Spencer out the ground but Spiers took a well judged catch to see him depart for a well struck 97.

Spencer completed a four wicket haul and Faulkener was the only other bat to reach double figures as Cutnall closed on 174 for 8.

Green started their innings in light drizzle and found runs difficult to come by. Freeman and Genever negotiated the opening attack and had just started to accelerate when Freeman went for 19. A break for a sharp shower gave the wicket new life and dramatically slowed the outfield. Good shots from Beavon and Genever failed to find the boundary and lots of running ensued. Beavon was cutting and pulling to give Green the necessary impetus and Genever perished for an accomplished 39. Tolley (15no) and Beavon added 32 quick runs until Beavon went for an excellent 47. Andy Wheeler (16no) survived a catch off a no ball before launching two mighty sixes out of the ground. With Cutnall appealing against the light it was agreed that the match be abandoned.