HALESOWEN'S Joe Tromans produced a dominating performance with bat and ball to put West Malvern's hopes of promotion on the back foot after Mark Groves' excellent innings of 91 had earlier silenced the exuberant home side at Earl's High School, Halesowen.

HALESOWEN V WEST MALVERN

West Malvern were put in and with dark clouds and thunder threatening all around, the innings started disastrously when the reliable Steve Wright (2) and Brian Pleass (0) were bowled by Jones (9-2).

Mark Groves signalled his intent by driving his first ball for four through the covers. He and Tony Williams then steadied the innings and took the score to 84-2 at the 20-over stage when Williams (10) glanced to keeper Parry.

Rowan Dakin showed great maturity as he provided able support for Groves who was by now taking full advantage of the small ground. Troman's dismissal of Dakin triggered a mid-innings collapse as Andy Hurrell (0), Briscoe (8rh), Andy Dakin (0) and Kevin Gilbert (4) all departed.

The rain which had been falling steadily finally caused the game to be halted and an early tea was taken. When the rain finally ceased six overs per side had been lost.

West Malvern, with eight overs of their innings remaining, resumed on 151-7. Paul McDonald tried to keep Groves company but when Groves was caught behind for 91 off Tromans (8-3-20-4), Tim Millis (0) also fell giving Halesowen 40 overs to get 167.

Groves and Wright bowled with determination and aggression, and soon Halesowen were 41-3 after 12 overs and this brought in Tromans to join Hawker.

He soon got into his stride hitting several mighty sixes to reach 81 not out, but it was left to Hawker (44no) to strike the winning boundary.

Despite this defeat the mood remains buoyant and with players returning to action there is hope of a good result tomorrow (Saturday), against Old Hill at Mathon Court.