OLDSWINFORD and Stourbridge Social continued their fine start to the season with a win against Malvern.

They won the Worcestershire County League division two contest by 123 runs away from home last Saturday.

Bowler Philip Croft claimed a five wicket haul to ensure Malvern failed to reach their total.

Oldswinford won the toss and elected to bat. It was a decision that proved a good one as openers Lee Nightingale (35) and Harry Stanier (29) soon set about accumulating a good score.

After they fell, it was Malvern's turn to hit back. Bowler Rob Francis took the wickets of both Thomas Blunt and Matt Siddaway to restrict the visitors.

However, a fine 35 from Philip Croft and a 29 from Waqas Ahmed helped Oldswinford reach 219 as they were bowled out in the last of their 50 overs.

It was their bowling attack that proved the difference. The writing was on the wall when Malvern opener Anthony Arnold was caught and bowled by Michael Hand for just three and Andy Cullen was trapped lbw by Rhy Williams.

Croft bagged his first of five wickets when bowling Olly Bendall for 24. He then helped clear out the lower order as Malvern were all out for 96 after just 28 overs.

Oldswinford and Stour Social now sit in second place behind leaders Cookley and will travel to take on Worcester Dominies and Guild this Saturday.