A FINE 79 by trialist Steve Moore failed to save Worcestershire from an 88-run defeat in yesterday's Second Eleven Trophy clash against Hampshire at Southampton.

Opening batsman Moore hit 11 fours off 114 balls before the County were dismissed for 169 in reply to Hants' 257-8.

The home side's tally was boosted by Jason Laney (63) and Jimmy Adams (42).

The County's chase soon hit troubled waters and at one stage they were sinking fast on 44-6. Their fortunes were lifted by Moore and Depesh Patel (31) who put on 72 for the seventh wicket.

Fifteen-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman Steve Davies marked his debut by scoring nine and putting on 40 for the eighth wicket with Moore.