COLWALL'S seconds final away league game of the season produced a spirited display at Hatherley and Reddings seconds.

With an under-strength and under-manned side, the away side lost the toss and were put into bat on an overcast, humid day.

Openers James Sheppard and captain Matt King knew with the inexperienced line-up, it was important that they did not give away early wickets. They made a confident start, not only keeping wickets in the bank but scoring at four an over. Sheppard was the first to go, driving outside the off-stump to slip for a well made 38.

With the score 73-1, Colwall were in a strong position but after a couple of good shots, Bradshaw drove to mid-off to be caught.

It was important that King and Bevan put a partnership together and they did this well in tough conditions. The pair put on 74 for the third wicket before King fell lbw for 74. The innings fell away somewhat, with McClellan and Hylands falling cheaply. Bevan reached his 50 before falling to the last ball of the innings. But the away side were happy with 189-6.

Hatherley got off to a quick start and it was important that Elsden got rid of Nickell, caught by Bevan for 14. The score moved on to 77 before the next breakthrough came with Bevan taking a good catch, stood up to the stumps, off King. When Sheppard bowled opener Cotterill with a perfect off-spinner's ball and King had Prichard lbw, things looked good at 81-4.

King then removed the home captain for 22 and with two run-outs, it looked as though Colwall would gain an incredible victory at 151-8. But young wicket-keeper Moss (26no) and number 10 Taylor (28no) took their side home.

Although it was defeat, it was a strong performance and bodes well for next year.