GREG Wright says Himley's defeat against Bromsgrove is a timely reminder that they can't afford to let standards slip in such a competitive league.

Himley are mid-table in Division One of the Birmingham and District Premier League after suffering their second defeat of the campaign last Saturday.

Bromsgrove made 225-7 from their 50 overs after winning the toss and choosing to bat.

Jamie Turner struck early to remove opener Jayden Levitt for one but number three Ryan Pedley (76) top scored as the visitors set a competitive total.

Daniel Durman (45) was Himley's top scorer with the bat as the home side's top order failed to fire.

They were eventually bowled out for 204 in the 50th over as they slumped to their second defeat.

Wright said: "I always knew it was going to be tough against a good Bromsgrove side but we just weren't at the races from the very first ball.

"We weren't at the level we needed to be and you can't afford to do that. We gave them too many extras and weren't good enough in the field.

"We didn't stick to our plans with the ball and got ourselves into trouble with the bat.

"The game showed us that you can't afford to have an off day. This league is very competitive and you'll be punished if you don't get the fundamentals right.

"The positive is that I think they game was there to be won if only we'd have got the simple things right.

"Bromsgrove were a good side and deserved to win but you have to look at yourselves.

"We are an evolving team and we have to learn from Saturday now. You can't just turn up and expect to perform at the level required. You have to be focused and disciplined and work hard to get the basics right before anything else."

They will look to hit back when they take on Barnards Green as the 55 over format kicks in (noon start).

"As a captain I like the 55 over format," added Wright. "We are a well balanced side for either format but in the longer form you can set some different fields, change your bowlers a little more and have a bit more control."

Elliot Hopkin and Callum Lea are both available this weekend after missing the Bromsgrove defeat.