Seconds snatch defeat from jaws of victory

Hambledon's second string had their hopes of a fourth-straight win in Hampshire League division four south brought to a painful end at Trojans on Saturday.

Having posted 219 after being asked to bat on a damp pitch, the Dons reduced their hosts to 27 for three in reply only for a century from Monty Maunsell to spoil the party.

A fine 80 from 14-year-old JJ Brown had earlier proved the bedrock of the Hambledon total.

The youngster's stylish knock was allied with contributions from Paul Vickers (44), Mark Le-Clercq (27) and Jamie Lewis (25) before the visitors were all out in the final over.

Kyle Shinn (two for 25) and Mark Davison then reduced the hosts to 27 for three after tea but despite Trojans losing a fourth wicket on 50, they fought back.

The wheels came off for the Dons with wayward bowling, poor ground fielding and spilled catches helping the home side on their way.

Maunsell was ultimately bowled by Lewis for 117 but by then the damage was done and Trojans were within 15 runs of their target - and completed a five-wicket victory with two overs to spare.

The defeat was a blow to Hambledon's promotion hopes with them slipping to eighth in the table.