Taylor sews up ace win

He played the leading role in seeing the hosts dismissed for 282 in their second innings yesterday, having been chasing 463 for victory.

And the young St Georges star, who is also a goalkeeper and has just rejected a new contract with Blue Square Premier side Kiderminster Harriers, could not hide his delight at what was one of the biggest three days of his cricketing life.

"It was hard work because the pitch wasn't the best for bowling, but we managed to bowl them out cheaply in the first innings," said Taylor, reflecting on his 6-23 as Oxfordshire were skittled for just 69 first time round.

"It's been going quite well for me and the team. The ball's coming out alright and everyone seems to be holding their catches. We're having a good run."

Taylor was also singled out for praise by Shropshire's chairman of selectors Trevor Sheperd.

"Steve was tremendous on what was a flat track," he said. "We've always known he is a good cricketer and it's just that his availability hasn't been brilliant because of his football.

"He bowled quite a few overs so he's obviously got good stamina. He's a good batter too, and we haven't seen the best of that for Shropshire yet."

Sheperd was delighted to see his side get back in the mix at the top of the table, just seven points behind current leaders Cheshire.

And he is keen to see them maintain their momentum for the visit of Dorset to Shrewsbury a week on Sunday.

"We've got to keep the dressing room going as it is now, because we've got excellent team spirit," he added. We're playing really well as a team. It's a young side - the average age this week was 21.6. We're very proud of that because it was our intention to bring the youngsters through."

By Chris Hudson