GREAT Alne's grim season continued as another weak batting display condemned the Cotswold Two side to defeat against Wellesbourne Seconds.

And with relegation dogfights in their next two fixtures, the villagers could be left with a mountain to climb at the halfway stage unless they can bank some points.

"We batted on a good wicket and came up 60 or 70 runs shy of a good total again," said captain Craig Millard.

"Saturday's match with Catherine de Barnes is crucial and I'm hoping we can field a decent side.

"Although the results have not improved, our batting has got better over the last two or three matches.

"One or two players are starting to pick up runs and gain a bit of confidence.

"I'm just hoping the batting improves at the weekend, bowling and fielding has never been a problem for us."

Wicketkeeper and bat Dave Coll is set to return on Saturday along with bowler Tom Jones as Great Alne entertain the side immediately below them in the table (2pm).

Basement boys Hockley Heath are the villager side's opponents a week on Saturday.