BIRLINGHAM defeated Cutnall Green by five wickets in the Crusader Worcestershire League Division Three.
Despite Neil Fletcher's 125, Green were dismissed for 197 with Martin Downes (3-35) and John Sturt (2-34) the main wicket-takers.
Six overs of genuine pace from Andy Willetts helped pave the way.
Birlingham's response got off to a good start with captain Rob Drake scoring 68, supported by Brian Seward (18) and Gavin Spares (36).
Dave Clasen (15 not out) and Mike Sloan (20no) saw them home to victory on 198-5.
In the second XI encounter, Green batted first and got to 203-7 in 50 overs.
Jim Scarrett was the pick of the Birlingham bowlers with 2-34, supported by Roger Ewins (2-34) as Paul Hutchins scored 103 on his birthday.
Birlingham's reply got off to a slow start due to good bowling from Brian Lavell (1-43) and Hutchins (2-14).
However, once Tim Clarke (77no) and Peter Shepherd (17no) came together the run-rate increased and Birlingham finished on 162-3 to secure a losing draw.
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