Pagham hail Hales as Bognor's bid falters

Division three west

Bognor’s bid for honours in cricket’s Sussex division three west stalled as battling Pagham claimed a vital victory in their survival bid.

Pagham paceman Mike Hales (4-85) caused early problems with magnificent swing and seam, dismissing Max Ashmore for six.

Mark Ross (1-32) removed Andrew Quincey, leaving Elliott Clarke (30) and Michael Spaseski (31) to provide respite before a superb direct hit from Stuart Rutter ran out Clarke.

Bognor’s middle order was demolished by the slow-left-armers of Wayne Green (4-32). Rob Burge (20) battled well with support from Jim Lee, who struck some lusty blows – but both perished to the bowling of Hales as Bognor posted 157 all out.

Pagham openers Dave Galea (36) and Ian Dyer (53) made a positive start.

Dyer hit 12 fours on his way to a scintillating 50 as a few chances went amiss.

Oli Handson (1-27) and Charlie La Foret (2-24) sent shockwaves through Pagham as Handson got Galea lbw before Dyer edged to Josh Seward off La Foret.

Stuart Rutter was bowled by La Foret for one. But Graham Finlayson and Dave Fuente led Pagham to their second win of the season.

Bognor will look to overcome Slinfold this week (August 6) to rekindle their dreams of promotion. Pagham still have work to do to stay up.