In what is fast becoming a season of two halves another abject performance by Fairford saw them defeated for the fourth match in a row this time at relegation threatened Newent. The lack of any batsman prepared to knuckle down to make a major score along with a failure to build any pressure with the ball were the major causes of defeat against a team who couldn't have been more helpful with a dreadful fielding display which saw them drop at least 5 easy catches.

Asked to bat first on a wet wicket the new opening pair of Townsend and Moreing made hay against some short pitched bowling before the introduction of Fabian saw both openers and Gray dismissed in the space of three overs. Newport made a diligent 37 which was to be the top score against bowling which was adequate at best and supported by bright and breezy innings from Bullock, Clark and McGrath together with late order runs from captain Leadbeater, Clarke and youngster Scott Leadbeater took the score to a defendable 163 for 8.

On a drying wicket Clarke took an early wicket which was scant reward for a hard working spell but once again Fairford were unable to make any further breakthroughs. Duggan and Fabian in their contrasting styles were batting steadily and it was a surprise when the former fell to an excellent catch by Townsend at mid-on. The captain tried everything at his disposal but a rapid innings by the big hitting Henry settled matters despite two wickets for McGrath who made an impressive debut.

With the minor places still to be decided Fairford play their final league match at home to Stone on Saturday with a 1.30 start and will be hoping that the returning Greener, Bird and Peyman will add some much needed enthusiasm to the side. All Fairford players and supporters are reminded that the end of season presentation is on Saturday 4th September and payment of £10 per head is required on Saturday.