BARNARDS Greens 1st XI set out in search of their first WCL Division Three victory of the season, away to Victoria on Saturday.

BARNARDS GREEN v VICTORIA & BLAKELEY

The Green skipper Rich Williams again won the toss and again elected to bowl on a wicket that proved to play well throughout. Tim Williams (1-34) and Judd Doughty (1-40) bowled very economically but after 25 overs Victoria had lost only one wicket for 92 runs.

R Brown (2-52) once again bowled with great control throughout his long spell and Rog Clarke (2-38) picked up the key wicket of Mitchell, having been encouraged by the crowd after being hit for three sixes in four balls.

Duncan Bell, aged 16, bowled superbly on his debut without reward despite a close stumping shout from the immaculate Glendinning.

Victoria accelerated well, adding an impressive 37 in the last five overs. The Green once again bowled and fielded excellently in restricting Victoria to 195-6 in their 50 overs.

The Green's reply started well with Jez Clarke (15) playing some particularly attractive shots early on. When Clarke middled one to point, Kev Golder joined skipper Williams at the crease. Golder (86no) in particular was in superb form playing a series of majestic shots all around the wicket. Williams (70no) also started to time the ball well with two big sixes. The pair added 172 as the Green romped to an emphatic victory and a good 20 points.

Tomorrow (Saturday) the Green will be looking to continue the good form as they entertain Himbleton at North End Lane.

Green Thirds gave a very good account of themselves against Belbroughton but lost by 48 runs.

Belbroughton made 198 off their 45 overs with the Green taking eight wickets. Emily Price had J Price caught for her first wicket in senior cricket.

The Green were all out for 150 despite a fine 46 from H Gregory and 37 from J Hall.