Scowen stays upbeat over Hastings Priory survival hopes

Priory are second from bottom in the ten-team table – 16 points in front of Bognor, who are in the sole relegation spot, but with the three sides ahead of them all within 25 points.

When Heath visited Horntye last weekend, Priory were all out for 237 before the visitors reached the target only three down.

It puts pressure on Hastings to try to get something away to new leaders Middleton tomorrow.

Scowen said: “Unfortunately the batters didn't capitalise when they got in. We had far too many starts and no one going onto get that big score.

“Iden McCleave was the highlight in the batting display, batting beautifully for 50 before an unfortunate dismissal.

“We did feel that 237 was a good enough score to be competitive on what is a tricky wicket at Horntye, and it was pleasing to get our maximum batting points again.”

Shawn Johnson struck 40, Joe Billings 29 and Alfie Hunter 23.

Scowen said: “In return, we did not bowl well enough. Life was made tough by good Haywards Heath batting and running between the wickets – however, we weren't able to control one side of the wicket to build pressure that then brings wickets.”

Adam Barton ended with 3-87 but was Priory’s only wicket-taker.

Scowen added: “It is incredibly tight in the bottom half of the table – one win can see you jump multiple places.

“We don't think we are far away from that win that hopefully grows a gap, and with some big fixtures in the coming weeks that could end up being the deciders.

“We have a tough game this weekend away to a very strong Middleton side.

“But we are confident that we can find some good form and get a positive result, with the top three teams giving lower placed sides great opportunities to win games of cricket recently.”

Elsewhere, Little Common Ramblers had to settle for a Division 2 draw at home to Ifield while in Division 3 East, Bexhill won by two wickets at Mayfield – reports inside.