IMPRESSIVE Astwood Bank cemented top spot in Birmingham League Division Three with a splendid five wicket win over Stratford.

Having removed Stratford for a modest total of 144, the Bank made light of their target to reach a winning 147 for five in the 44th over.

The result enables the Bank to remain six points clear of closest rivals Lichfield but skipper Steve Adshead takes nothing for granted and said: "I thought Stratford's total would prove more challenging to chase down because it was a poor wicket where the ball moved around considerably right from the start.

"But we had an excellent opening partnership in reply through Alex Robinson and Tom Pedley which effectively broke the back of the chase."

The Bank breezed to a winning 147 for five to register their first ever victory over local rivals Stratford in the Birmingham League and sweet revenge having lost to them earlier in season.

Adshead admitted: "They proved a real bogey side to us in the past, but this time our bowlers outplayed their's".

Seamer Tom Harris took three for 36 off 13.5 overs while left arm spinner Dan Taylor snapped up three for 21 off 12.

Opening bat Alex Robinson then laid the foundation for victory with a well compiled 42, Tom Pedley supplied a further 25 before Adshead waded in with another 28.

The Bank entertain Shropshire side Newport this Saturday, looking to turn the tables having lost to them at the start of the season.

Adshead will be reinforced by the return of Ryan Blakemore which will leave him with a few selection posers.

He added: "Everyone is playing well at the moment, which is a reward for all the hard work they've put, But with a couple of players from the second XI banging on the door as well, selection won't be an easy process this week."