CRAIG Sheward signalled his intent, imperiously cutting Steve Righton's first delivery for four and so he continued in commanding fashion, dominating an opening partnership of 118 with Rob Eaton in 25 overs as Elmley Castle made the early running against Shipston last Saturday.

Jon Walker broke the stand, bowling the latter for 47 but, with Sheward in control, the home side could expect a score of 240 to bowl at after tea.

Dave Wheatley was bowled by Walker and, by denying Sheward the strike, Shipston eased their way back into the game.

Neil Cooper was caught by Righton off Dave Murphy and the same combination removed Sheward for 92 when a century looked a certainty.

At 155-4 and ten overs remaining, Elmley's final tally of 195-8 was disappointing.

Dave Pyne and Walker kept the runs in check. Pyne took 2-36 including his 300th league wicket when Mick Sharpe stumped Steve Webb and Walker grabbed 4-47.

Dave Murphy was the other wicket taker picking up 2-30. Pyne (0-34) and Righton (0-39) were the wicketless pair.

Shipston's reply could not have started more disastrously as Gary Betteridge played Ian Rosie's first delivery on to his stumps.

Walker joined Julian Morris and the second 100 partnership of the day ensued.

The pair, completely in control, were parted when Nelson struck and a needless run-out removed Morris (38). But, at 111-2 and Walker in such good form, victory from the remaining ten overs should have been a formality.

Elmley, to their credit, stuck to their task and, when Walker was caught by Karl Sheward off Steve Webb for 75, 50 were needed from ten overs.

Webb bowled superbly with his second spell of five overs yielding only five runs. With the field spread all around the perimeter, boundaries were at a premium.

Shipston fell ten short as incoming batsmen found it difficult to cope with Webb's accuracy and the sun played its part setting behind the bowler's arm from the other end.

Elmley deserved their first ever victory against Shipston for their never-say-die spirit and, with more self belief, surely they will be Cotswold Hills League title contenders this season.