FROCESTER showed spirited resistance, but still slipped to a four- wicket defeat against arch-rivals Bath at Pounds Close on Saturday, writes Eric Woodmason.

Batting first, Frocester found the pace of former Frocester ace Paul Muchall, too much and both O’Doherty and Gegg were caught behind before the score had reached 25.

Qureshi resisted strongly, but also fell to a catch in the slip cordon for 26. Thereafter, only Dan Whincup proved capable of resisting the Bath attack, scoring 24, with but no other batsman could reach double figures and Frocester were dismissed for 101 in 33.4 overs.

However, Perera and Drake both bowled superb opening spells as Bath were reduced to 16-4 with both James Campbell and Paul Muchall dismissed for ducks.

Drake had Gloucestershire star, George by Hankins, well-caught at slip by Dan Whincup, by Perera.

However, Greg Hay held firm and saw Bath home with a gritty 32 not out. Perera also dismissed Sam Mount to finish with excellent figures of 4-48.

Hopefully Frocester can take this effort into the game at Corsham on Saturday, where a first win of the season is vital.