IT was victory at last for Avoncroft Cricket Club's First XI as they overcame Tenbury by the narrow margins in Worcestershire County League Division Four.

Avoncroft's first win of the season was hard fought as Tenbury made a spirited effort to overhaul 'Crofts 240 for eight.

Asked to bat first on a lively wicket that had been refreshed by a heavy shower, 'Croft were given a good start by Chris Townsend (27) and Pete Jukes posting a half century stand.

When Townsend's promising innings ended, the mercurial Jukes was joined by the menacing David James in a scintillating partnership that saw 88 runs added in quick time. Jukes's ebullient knock clocked up 15 fours and a six in his innings of 75.

Three quick wickets followed, including James for 42, before Jon Bird (23) and Craig Southwick (26) steadied the innings to secure the initiative for 'Croft.

With Steve Reynolds, Rich Sinclair and Nigel Jukes all contributing valuable middle order runs, the innings was concluded in style with a monster six by Jukes to end the allotted overs on 240 for eight -- another excellent batting display by 'Croft.

For Tenbury, Barry Gorden claimed five for 36.

Dangerous

Even with the early loss of two wickets, including the dangerous Gorden, well caught by Sinclair, Tenbury took the attack to 'Croft.

As the wicket became easier, Hussain and Thompson posted 100 before they were separated.

Avoncroft then juggled the bowling to unsettle the batsman, and this seemed to work as the combination of Pete Jukes and Steve Reynolds began to strangle the runs and take wickets. Eight bowlers in total were used, including junior spinner Richie Townsend.

But it was Steve Reynolds with a fine spell of pressure bowling who was the star performer, finishing with three for 15.

With nine down, Derek James, supported by Alan Taylor, made a spirited effort with 32 still required.

In a tense finish, all results seemed possible and with eight balls remaining and eleven required to win, James mistimed a pull, sending the ball vertical.

After what seemed like an eternity and with the result in the balance the ball finally nestled in the gloves of Chris Townsend to secure 24 points and hand Avoncroft a much needed victory by ten runs in an entertaining and enjoyable match.