FERGUS NEVE bagged five wickets for West Malvern but it wasn’t enough to stop them from slumping to a one-wicket defeat to Halesowen Thirds in Division Four.
Malvern were put in after losing the toss and were bowled out for 173 with opener Peter Gurr carrying his bat, finishing unbeaten on 88.
Neve then took 5-70 in reply with Matthew Hindmarsh (4-54) chipping in but they could not stop Halesowen claiming victory as the hosts managed to reach 174-9.
Malvern entertain Hallow Taverners on Saturday.