Ludlow’s below-par season shows no sign of improving after they were skittled for just 44 by Reman Services.

Tipped by many to be amongst the challengers for Proactive Shropshire Premier League honours, the Burway men have struggled this season and have increasingly replaced senior first-teamers with youngsters.

But that policy wasn’t successful on Saturday as Ludlow slumped to one of the lowest totals of the season en route to a 97-run defeat.

It could have been worse with Reman – for whom skipper Mal Serplett took 4-7 and Shane Gwilt 3-21 – reducing Ludlow to 17-7.

The south Shropshire side at least crept up close to the 50 mark, but failed to come close to challenging the visitors’ total of 121-7 in a match reduced to 45 overs.

Mark Davies top-scored with 46 while Darren Bullock chipped in with an unbeaten 20.

“We had a good day and it was enjoyable,” said Reman captain Serplett. “It wasn’t an easy pitch to get in on and it was a very big ground.

“Mark Davies showed his experience because he realised it wasn’t going to be an easy scoring day and his 46 was probably worth 120 or 130 – it was magnificent.

“The only thing he was disappointed in was how much running he had to do! I would have liked another 20 or 30 runs but Ludlow didn’t apply themselves properly and at one stage it seemed like we were taking a wicket an over.”

The result moves Reman back into the top four – and Serplett is eyeing continued progression.

“I think the horse has probably bolted as far as Oswestry is concerned – something would have to go horribly wrong for them not to win it,” he added.

“We haven’t been as consistent as we should have been but we just have to keep going.

“We have only played two games at home so far so hopefully we can pick up some wins when we play there more.”

Market Drayton were another to be bowled out for a paltry total as their home clash with Broseley was done and dusted in well under three hours.

Ian Firmstone’s 7-25 left the hosts’ innings in tatters as they slumped to just 67 all out.

And Drayton were left further stranded at the foot of the table as Broseley coasted home for the loss of just two wickets to seal an early finish.

It was the same old story for poor Bomere Heath who have now gone seven weeks without playing any cricket as their home match with Madeley was washed out.

By James Garrison