ALVECHURCH and Hopwood were on the receiving end of a heavy nine wicket defeat when they faced Worcester County League Division Three leaders Kempsey.

Edd Rodgers reeled off 51 as Alvechurch were removed for 142 in the 37th over after Kempsey quick bowler Adam Baker, who took four for 19, had reduced the innings to 12 for two at one stage.

Mike Rueben then handed Alvechurch an early glimmer of hope when he removed Kempsey opening bat Joe Worthington with just 16 runs on the board.

But the second wicket partnership of Chris Jones on 71 not out and Sam O'Neill with 55 not out stood firm and made sure Kempsey cruised to a winning 143 for one in the 24th over.