NETHERTON’S ascent up the Worcestershire County League table came to an end after they were comprehensively beaten at home by a strong Himbleton side.

Second placed Himbleton took full advantage of Division Three leader Kempsey’s slip up as they put the Highbridge Road side to the sword.

The eight wicket defeat wasn’t helped by the visitor’s decision to go into field after winning the toss.

Netherton would have wanted to get off to a strong start to put the away team on the back foot but after being bowled out for 124 off 34.1 overs – despite Conor Warby’s resilience after top scoring with 48 – a win was always going to be a tough task.

Himbleton went into bat and completed a resounding eight wicket win, mostly in part to Sean Jenkins who led the way with an undefeated 57.

The result leaves Netherton in fourth place and with a lot to do in the division, with Himbleton now moving 52 points ahead in the table.

They will try to get their winning run back on track with a trip to second-from-bottom Martley on Saturday (1pm start).