BARNARDS Green seconds were determined to put in a better performance at home against Belbroughton seconds, who were probably the only side that had out-played them in the first half of the season.

Belbroughton elected to bat on a pitch that was once again a true batting strip with the outfield well-groomed and lighting quick.

Ian Scullion bowled his traditional tight spell only conceding 19 runs in his eight overs, Lewis Hooper at the other end soon had both openers struggling, he bowled Palmer for two then continued to cause problems to the second-wicket partnership of Raybold and Pearson. Sam Spencer replaced Scullion, and proceeded to bowl with accuracy, he was unlucky to be wicket-less only conceding 19 runs in his spell of eight overs.

Mark Hooper replaced his brother and soon removed Pearson for 48 and quickly followed with the wicket of Raybold for 34. Belbroughton were 96-3 after 30 overs. Phil Harris bowled a tight line in his five overs only conceding 13 runs.

The visitors were struggling and only in the last five overs did they manage to improve the strike rate, Baggs (23) and Bateman (24) struck a series of boundaries to bring their total to 222-6, probably 50 runs short of a competitive score.

In reply, Derek Goodman and Jason Brewer played in a positive manner and dominated the visitors attack. Brewer completed his half century and then was stumped for the second week running, Goodman reached 50 for the second time in his second innings of the season. A fine opening partnership of 124 in 27 overs setting the home side for a comfortable victory.

Mark Hooper stroked the ball to all parts, Paddock and Rogers stayed only briefly, Phil Harris was well set when he holed out on the boundry for 13.

Spencer scored quickly for his 24 before Hooper completed his 50 and continued towards the total with the aid of the unflappable Scullion. Hooper made 60no as the Green reached their target with seven overs and four wickets in hand. Another 24 points gained.

Thank you to the match day sponsor, Three of a Kind Hairdressing.