MONTGOMERY IIS returned from reserve division one title chasers Worfield defeated but with pride in tact following an eight wicket loss.

Monty posted 166 to defend with Keith Griffiths top scoring with an unbeaten 46 with support from Jake Wilkinson (20) and Matthew Jones (20).

Chris Wallis (3-24) and Kai Patel (3-45) led home side’s wicket haul with support from Jack Simpson (2-46).

Tom Hughes bowled Oliver Gilks for 21 with a beauty that caught the top of off stump as Monty started their reply brightly

However Simon Aucott (55) and Charles Fox-Davies (62no) led Worfield to 169-2 and glory in the 28th over.

Meanwhile Alberbury IIs crashed to a six wicket defeat at home to Shelton IIs.

Only Alex Hughes (19) and Steve Jarrett (14) managed double figures for the hosts as Richard Walker (3-13), Steve Griffiths and Mike Bishton (2-5) left Alberbury to defend 95.

Jarrett (3-37) celebrated the key wickets of Zeke Mellor (44) and Adam Humphreys (27) in reply before George Manders (4no) and Walker (4no) guided Shelton to 99-4 and glory in the 17th over.

Newtown IIs’ second division promotion bid was dealt a blow in a five wicket defeat at Bomere Heath IIs.

Danny Foulkes (109no) carried his bat with Ricky Davies (34) and Richard Smout (29no) steering Town to 181-2 to defend.

Travis Keys (89) starred in reply with Jonathan Malpass (22) in support before Matt Jones (29no) guided Heath to a winning total of 184-5 in the 34th over.

Welshpool IIs also tasted victory in division three with Iscoyd IIs prevailing four wicket winners.

Despite a strong opening stand between David Whitehouse (49) and Allan Williams (31) the Pool order collapsed under pressure from Gavin Kelly (3-20) and Richard Charlton (2-4) to be left defending 116-8.

Opener James Nicholson (42) top scored in reply before Steve Reece (39no) and Kelly (13) guided Iscoyd to 117-5 and glory in the 29th over.