STONE Cricket Club's Worcestershire County League Division Four title hopes were shattered on Saturday by top-of-the-table Cape Hill Victoria, who won by seven wickets.

The home side were lying second in the league going into this game and had hoped to overtake the leaders.

Having lost the toss, Stone were put in to bat and put on 49 for the first wicket in 15 overs, Gareth Bryant being in good form hitting 35.

However, Stone then lost their way and were soon 75-4.

Ian Tomlinson (19) and Howard Smith (15) crashed some good boundaries, then 37 quick runs from Matthew Tyrrell game the home side hope.

The teenager's six-hitting blitz, added to Rupert Smale's 24no put on 50 for the last five overs.

Cape Hill refused to allow Stone's qualified umpire to officiate during their innings.

They scored 11 off the first over and raced to 113-3 in 19 overs.

There were several disputed "wides", and Pete Durnell was the pick of the bowlers but could not stop the visitors reaching their target with 19 overs remaining.

Stone 173-6 (Matthew Tyrrell 37, Gareth Bryant 35, Rupert Smale 24no), Cape Hill 176-3.