HANLEY Castle and Upton lost their first game of the season, in a hard fought encounter against Cape Hill Victoria.

HANLEY CASTLE & UPTON v CAPE HILL VICTORIA

After having lost the toss, Hanley and Upton were put into bat and the home batsmen made steady progress with the third wicket partnership between Grant Mathews and Dave Young proving vital in posting a challenging total.

These two batsmen were the only two to really come to terms with some excellent bowling from Naveed. Naveed took wickets regularly and even claimed four wickets in successive deliveries. Consequently, it was certainly a day that many of the Hanley and Upton batsmen would rather forget. However, with Grant Mathews playing a majestic innings, full of quality shots and resolute defence, and well supported by Young. Hanley and Upton CC closed on 159 all out. Mathews scoring a top-class 71.

However, the star of the innings undoubtedly had to be the Cape Hill Victoria bowler, Naveed, who claimed all but one of the Hanley and Upton's wickets for 37 runs, an immense effort.

In reply to the 160-run victory target, Cape Hill Victoria's batsmen batted well. Although the bowlers beat the bat regularly, the batsmen rode their luck and had already put on 50 for the opening partnership before Robinson took the first wicket.

Although Hanley And Upton managed to take three wickets in quick succession to give some hope to the bowling side, Victoria eventually coasted to victory in the 38 over. Shah completed his 50 and Tanwir remained undefeated on 31.

Hanley Castle and Upton CC play Bridewell tomorrow (Saturday) hoping to return to winning ways in their attempt to consolidate their position as leaders of Division Five.

Players to meet 12.30pm at the Glebe. All support welcome.