Jon Manton’s first senior century was in vain for Spalding Town’s Sunday side as they suffered a four-wicket defeat against Ketton Sports.
The opener made a brilliant 105 in Town’s 216-5 in the Division Three clash at Memorial Field.
However, Ketton’s Sam Potter returned fire with a 101 of his own as they reached 221-6 in reply with a little over four overs to spare.
The bulk of Spalding’s runs came from the excellent Manton and his opening partner Ethan Lawrence (51).
Barnaby Dring (23 not out) added runs at the death to proper Town past 200 and secure four batting points.
Unfortunately for the hosts, Ketton produced a similar scorecard as Matt Bird (47) and centurion Potter kept them above the required rate.
Freddie Renton (15 not out) then kept a cool head to get his side over the line, despite the efforts of Jack Bowser (2-9).
The loss leaves Spalding bottom with no wins from their four games so far.
In the same division, second-placed Long Sutton suffered their second defeat of the campaign as Castor handed them a home reverse.
After opting to bat first, a 54 from Connor Parnell was Castor’s highlight as they were bowled out for 137 in 44.1 overs.
For Sutton, Josh Baker (2-23), Joe Whitaker (2-13), Paul Deans (2-14) and Charlie Crips (2-22) all impressed with the ball.
The hosts began their run chase as hot favourites, but never really got going.
Star man Parnell (4-27) was chief Caster tormenter again, while Dan Oldfield (27), Ed Barnes (22) and Jake Burton (20) top scored for the beaten hosts – who mustered just 110 in 36.4 overs.
Down in Division Four East, a stunning century from Alin Carter (105) wasn’t enough for Moulton Harrox 2nd as they fell eight runs shy of their target at Uffington.
Lewis Doughty (2-30) and Cameron Fox (1-36) and Darren Hibbert (1-34) bowled well as the hosts posted a score of 219-4 from their 40 overs.
Carter led from the off in the reply, but only Doughty (27) kept him company for any length of time. When the opener fell after reaching his ton, Cameron Fox (18 not out) did his best to see Harrox home – but the closed on 211-9.
Meanwhile, Castor 2nd conceded to Long Sutton 2nd (20pts).
Sunday fixtures (12.30pm): Division Three – Hampton v Spalding Town; Ketton v Long Sutton.
