SOUTH Wilts’ second XI have a mountain to climb to resurrect their SEPL Division 3 promotion challenge as they slipped to a 12-run defeat in a run-feast at Lower Bemerton.

Havant II posted a huge 281-4 off their 50 overs, with opener Patrick Mattison hitting an unbeaten 127.

Hampshir e under-15 batsman Harry Hovey also hit 65 as South Wilts let themselves down with a poor fielding display.

South Wilts hit back hard with a terrific batting display, notably by Rob Pittman, whose sparkling 109 took just 96 balls and included twelve fours and two sixes.

Sam Pittman (46) also chipped in but ultimately the total proved beyond the hosts as they slipped to a 12-run defeat.

Elsewhere, South Wilts 3rds slipped to another defeat – this time by seven wickets at Basingstoke & North Hants thirds.

Wiltshire under-14 batsman William Wade, pictured, was again in the runs as he struck a solid 79 at the top of the order.

Together with John Burton (65 not out), Wade shared a three figure fifth wicket partnership as South Wilts posted 205-5.

However, 62-yearold Leon Nurse ensured the score was put in perspective with an unbeaten 104 as the hosts cruised past the total with just three wickets down.

South Wilts will rue a string of dropped catches which, had they been taken, could well have seen the result looking very different.