Monmouth 1st XI's Worcestershire County League campaign took another setback as another poor batting display saw them only gain another losing draw at home against Harborne writes Dan Risk.
Monmouth were in the relegation zone before play started and needed a win to boost their survival chances. Monmouth won the toss and elected to bowl with opening pair Paul Swingwood (3-58) and the ever impressive Jonathan Roberts (1-28) exerting some early pressure on the visitors.
However, Mike Burgess (59) and Tim Clay (45) held things together and Harborne posted a creditable 226 for 8 from their 50 overs. Aled Jones impressed with three wickets whilst Jon Jones and the returning Tej Saran (pictured right) also picked up a scalp of their own.
In reply, Monmouth once again failed to gain any sort of momentum with a steady loss of wickets. Skipper Dan Head (36no) and 16 year old Josh Grey (33) provided resistance in the middle overs but Harborne produced a disciplined bowling display to prevent Monmouth from gaining victory. P Terry (3-47) and Ian Gunthorpe (3-31) excelled with the ball.
Monmouth now sit in a precarious position in the relegation zone and know they have to turn around their form to stand any chance in this league.
Meanwhile, Monmouth 2nd XI avenged their poor loss to Rushwick with a dominating performance over Harbone. Monmouth were joint second with Harborne at the start of play.
After being surprisingly inserted on an excellent batting surface, Monmouth's top order of Gordon Grey (46), Ian Morgan (33) and Andrew Smith (43) punished some ordinary bowling.
Skipper Martin Newell crashed several lusty blows to all parts as he top scored with 84 to set Harborne 275 for victory. Gareth Strangwood was the host best bowler, picking up four wickets.
Monmouth then produced an outstanding bowling and fielding performance to gain the winning draw. The youthful attack of Jordan Charles (3-28), Andrew Thomas (1-31), Dan Risk (1-12) and Richie Shaw (1-28) did most of the damage, which Man of the Match Newell also contributing three wickets.
There was also catches for Thomas (2), Smith, Risk, Idris Leonard and Morgan whilst Jon Despontin excelled with the gloves with an excellent stumping.
Monmouth now sit in 2nd place and promotion is on the cards if they can maintain this excellent form.
Monmouth would again like to thank all people who have contributed club, team and ball sponsors. Thank you to club sponsors J.D Weatherspoons and Misbah Tandoori Restaurant. This weekend's ball sponsors were; Mr and Mrs Shaw, Mr and Mrs Roberts, Jason Price Electricals and John Wigmore.