BROMSGROVE battled their way to a three wicket win over Shifnal and remain right in the thick of Birmingham League Division One's title race as they remain just 12 points adrift of leaders Moseley.

The golden arm of Gareth Williams made an immediate impact by causing chaos amongst Shifnal's top order to claim four for 39.

Former Worcestershire allrounder Alex Kervezee with three for 12 and Bromsgrove skipper Mark Evenson, who took two for 13, then mopped up the remaining wickets as Shfinal struggled to 135 all out.

Jayden Levitt then lashed a quickfire 71 off 43 balls to put Bromsgrove firmly in the driving seat.

But Bromsgrove then suffered a middle order collapse as they went from 87 for three to 117 for seven before finally making their way home on 138 for seven.

Skipper Evenson admitted: "Too may batsmen went out there trying to finish the game in three or four shots and we had to steady the innings.

"Gareth Williams is bowling like a dream at the moment and the lads are full of confidence - but we can take nothing for granted.

"The league is really tight this season and we have to make sure we keep on top of our game.

"At the start of the season, we set out our stall to be a top four contender, but obviously if we can finish higher, then we'll take it."

Bromsgrove travel to Walmley this Saturday but will be missing skipper Evenson with Ashley Newfield taking charge.