NETHERTON edged closer to the promotion places in Division Three of the Worcestershire County League with victory over Barnards Green last Saturday.

The hosts recovered from a shaky start to make 226 all out after losing the toss and being put in to bat.

The visitors removed both openers as Stewart Hepburn claimed the scalp of skipper Russell Oseland (2) and Jack Mackintosh accounted for Matt Lowe (8).

However, solid contributions from the middle order, including a top score of 39 for Conor Warby, meant Netherton pushed themselves towards a competitive total.

In reply, Green stuttered as Danny Lowe removed their top three. Jez Clarke (200, Harvey Smedley (2), Stewart Hepburn (18) all fell victim.

Warby continued the onslaught as the visitors failed to get going. They were bowled out for 173 in 45th over as Netherton took the points.

The success lifts them to third ahead of Saturday’s vital clash at leader Harborne (1pm).