CAPTAIN Mark Evenson believes Bromsgroves can finish in the top four of the Birmingham and District League Division One despite an eight-wicket loss to leaders Dorridge.

The Boars were no match for the table-toppers, despite a solid display with that bat.

Bromsgrove are fifth in the table but within striking distance of Barnards Green, Wellington and Smethwick.

However, Dorridge and second-placed Kenilworth Wardens are starting to break away from the rest of the league.

The captain said: “Dorridge and Kenilworth are the two best sides in the league and their are building a gap over the rest of the table.

“But we’re still in a good position for a top four finish and if we can keep playing well we can do it.”

After losing the toss and being asked to bat, Bromsgrove made 234-9 in their 55 overs, with Joe Dodd (55) and Ashley Newdick (50) leading the way.

George Rhodes (40) and Lewis Cordes (26) also chipped in as the Boars set a decent score.

However, Jonathan Webb (81) and David Ball (131 not out) made the difference and guided the hosts to 236-2 in reply.

Evenson said: “We’ve batted well all season and I thought we did OK on Saturday.

“You’ve just got to accept that Dorridge were the better team.”

Batsman Alexei Kervezee is back for Bromsgrove after he was dropped by Worcestershire for their LV= County Championship Division Two match with Kent.