OLD Elizabethans closed their season with a dismal batting display which led to a 44-run defeat to out-of-form Newport.

Spinner Ollie Griffiths carried on his good form to take 6-27 as the Shropshire-based side crumbled to just 121 all out. Jamie Alford weighed in with 3-13, while opening batsman Keenan top-scored with 55.

Confident of victory chasing such a small total, OEs got off to a poor start.

They took 14 overs to reach 32-2, but Andy Hemming (13) and David Truby (12) looked to stabilise the innings. The dismissal of Hemming saw OEs capitulate to the Newport attack in some style, the last five wickets falling for the addition of just 25 runs.

The collpase left OEs all out for 77, 45 runs short of their target.

n The seconds produced a stunning display when it mattered most to gain promotion to Birmingham League Division One.

Their nine-wicket triumph over Pelsall secured the 24 points needed to secure the runners-up berth.

Mark Liddington (56) and Dave Pennell added 55 for Pelsall's first wicket before the latter became one of Andy Stephens' five victims.

Stephens finished with 5-63 as Pelsall reached 180-9 thanks to a late cameo from veteran Mike Wood (44).

OEs' reply began well with Chris Pearman and Dave Phillips compiling their third century stand of the season.

Pearman was bowled for a well made 42, but Phillips (79no), who has ended the season in a fine vein of form, and James Bull (32no) saw their side home to secure back-to-back promotions.