DORCHESTER SECONDS 112 (2) lost to MARNHULL 113-2 (20) by eight wickets

DORCHESTER Seconds saw their average tumble as they slumped to a “disappointing” defeat at Marnhull in Dorset League Division One.

From their opening three games, one of which falling victim to the wet weather, the county town outfit had amassed a 12-point average.

But the ability to score a mere two points in the loss against Marnhull has seen Ollie Bennett’s side slip to second bottom with a below-nine average.

Reflecting on the eight-wicket reverse, vice-captain Stuart Voss said: “It was very disappointing. In hindsight we got the toss wrong and should’ve bowled first.

“But we didn’t and we started badly, losing early wickets.

“When it looked like we might get back on track we had an unfortunate run out which was rather unsporting to be honest.

“We bowled a bit loose in reply and once they had reached halfway, having lost just one batsman, heads started to drop so really it was a bad day all-round.”

After losing their first three wickets for just 19 runs scored, the visitors put on a fourth-wicket stand of 45.

Unfortunately for them, Stuart Beasley (25) was run out somewhat controversially and the decline resumed.

The remaining wickets fell at regular intervals before the away side were dismissed for a perilous 112.

The great escape did not look a million miles away when Marnhull’s opener S Hasted (1) was run out early doors.

However, the hosts composed themselves and, led by E Lewis (41 not out) and L Foster (35), set about reeling in their 113 winning target.

Nick Joslin claimed the wicket of Foster but the damage had been done and Marnhull comfortably reached the finish line.

Dorchester Seconds host rock-bottom Broadstone Seconds on Saturday (1.30pm) looking for an immediate response.

Voss added: “We’ll now look forward to playing Broadstone Seconds at the Rec on Saturday, hoping to pick up a lot more points than we did against Marnhull.”