WORCESTERSHIRE Over 60s saw off Northamptonshire by four wickets at Malvern.

After their defeat at Suffolk the previous week, the County lost the toss and fielded first.

Cliff Rawlings drew first blood, bowling Malcolm Craddock (1), before Alan Cotter (34) and Dick Steff (10) revived Northants.

The ever-accurate Trevor Knowles only conceded 14 runs in his nine overs.

The introduction of Martin Woodward into the attack saw Northants slump to 47-3.

Bob Curtis (21) and Mick Allen (34) increased the run-rate before John Shepherd (2-33) intervened.

Woodward (3-42) returned as Northants ended on 168-7 off their 45 overs.

Keith Middleton and Shepherd gave the veterans a sound start until Raymond Waite bowled Middleton for 14.

Knowles (24) and Shepherd took the score to 76.

Barry Briscoe, in a welcome return to form, scored an excellent 34 in a partnership of 66 with Shepherd as the pair took the score to 143-4.

Dick Brown departed quickly and Sheppard was well caught for a sound 59 after providing the backbone of the innings.

John Brookes and Woodward then took quick singles to win the match at the start of the final over.