A REMARKABLE bowling spell from Craig Bray helped Hagley thump Feckenham and virtually assure their promotion from Division Two.

The seamer took nine wickets for 17 runs as the hosts were bombed out for just 38, with Amjad Ali taking the other scalp.

In reply, Hagley eased to the meagre target for the loss of two wickets in 14 overs.

Skipper Russ Andrews said: “This was a fantastic performance from one man really as the rest of us just supported Craig who bowled superbly.

“He was absolutely unplayable today and we knew he could do that and it was fantastic to be a part of.

“Our main aim of promotion to Division One is nearly achieved now and we can push for the title in last few games.”

Hagley remain third in the standings but now hold and advantage of 45 points over fourth place.

They host Monmouth on Saturday and have a crucial game against league leaders Coombs Wood on Bank Holiday Monday.

The news was less promising for the seconds, who crashed to another disappointing defeat, this time against Droitwich.

After being asked to bat first, Hagley got off to a terrible start with Jack Stephens (3-30) picking up the first three wickets with only 25 on the board. With a fired up Calvin Van Vuuren (1-39) also in the groove, Hagley were in big trouble at 34-4.

Youngsters Jack Baker (53) and Simon Burgess (118) formed a terrific partnership, battling well through the remainder of the opening spells and then playing shots as spin was introduced into the attack. Baker rode his luck at times but Burgess looked in superb form and the bowlers often did not know where to bowl to him.

Baker was removed by David Stephens (1-34) but Burgess found another partner in Zeeshan Khan (26) and the pair saw Hagley up to 200. Khan then holed out but Burgess continued and picked up his maiden league century and saw Hagley along to 260-8 from their 50 overs.

However, Hagley’s bowlers started in a similar vein to their batsmen with the Droitwich opening pair Stuart Bryan (133) and Max Young (63) getting their reply off to a flyer. Hagley were again poor in the field with chances going down.

Eventually Young holed out off skipper Steve Plant (1-27) after an opening stand of 174. Bryan continued on his way and was joined by Rhys John (31 not out) and the pair virtually saw Droitwich home.

Hagley have now dropped to eighth in Division One and have real relegation concerns. They travel to Stourbridge on Saturday and host fellow strugglers Alvechurch & Hopwood on Bank Holiday Monday.