ANOTHER disappointing defeat at the hands of fellow strugglers Waterlooville, in a match reduced to 40 overs per side, leaves South Wilts seconds needing to win both their remaining matches to ensure Southern League Division Two survival.
The visitors won the toss and elected to field, and on a greenish top South Wilts again started disappointingly losing both their openers by the time the score had reached 11.
Joe Cranch (46) supported by Tom Pearce (37) repaired the damage, taking the score to 102 before both were dismissed in quick succession.
With the rate at just under four runs per over a rapid acceleration was required to take the total to the adjusted maximum batting points target of 180.
Steve Riddle (38) and Luke Hansford (14) took up the challenge but late dismissals saw South Wilts finish on 163-8. Quick breakthroughs were required but too many wide deliveries in the opening few overs saw Waterlooville build in both runs and confidence.
Opener Thomas Greene with a well constructed 57 provided the foundation of the visitors reply and 100 was passed with only two wickets down.
A further partnership of 40 plus saw Waterlooville within reach and despite some late wickets falling the home sides total was passed with just under two overs remaining and four wickets in hand.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here