HIMBLETON sunk to a six-wicket defeat at the hands of Netherton after being bowled out for a measly 65.
Giving their bowlers a titanic ask, the Meadow Boys made their hosts fight for their victory but the inevitable came in the 26th over to give the Black Country side a well-deserved win.
The writing appeared to be on the wall as soon as captain Jon Critchlow lost an important toss on a wet wicket and was asked to bat first.
Wickets fell at regular intervals as both Dominic Priest (3-33) and Jack Green (4-27) bowled exceptionally well in the conditions.
Only Critchlow showed any real grit as he battled for 30 overs for his nine runs but his team were blown away by a full and straight attacking line.
Unfortunately for Himbleton only one player made double figures, with the youngest Martyn Preece (10) making his first team debut chancing his arm during the last wicket stand.
Himbleton were grateful for 24 extras as only 39 runs came from the bat.
The visitors did show their character and made life difficult for Netherton to reach the total as the in form Sammy Jenkins again bowled well.
He used the conditions to his advantage as he bowled 11 overs, picking up two wickets for only nine runs. George Clifton was the other contributor to the day as he picked up two wickets, including the prized wicket of Russell Oseland, trapped LBW for only nine to give the Meadow Boys a sniff of a chance as they reduced Netherton to 40-4.
However, the home side steadied the ship and guided themselves home with 40 overs to spare.
