A SPIRITED rearguard action saw Droitwich Third XI earn vital points in their fight against relegation against title-chasing Leamington Spa.

Last wicket pairing Mark Williams and Alan Breakwell survived eight overs to ensure the losing draw as Droitwich closed on 142-9.

Williams batted for most of the innings as the rest of his team-mates offered little resistance on a good track.

His unbeaten 35 was a determined effort and only Andy Hine (31) showed any sign of building a big score before being caught in the slips.

Earlier, the home side had amassed a formidable 260-7 as Droitwich were left to rue several dropped catches.

Jones in particular had Lady Luck on his side, as he struck 76 after being caught and bowled off a no-ball from the seventh delivery of the match.

He also had Hine's laces to thank after the fielder tripped over and spilled what should have been a regulation catch.

With their good fortune, Leamington looked on target to post a score in excess of 300 before being pegged back by the leg spin of Steve Pugh and John Harris's medium pace.

Harris in particular was rewarded for his accuracy by finishing with a well-deserved five-wicket haul, his 14-over spell costing 65 runs.