OUT-of-sorts Astwood Bank will be determined to turn matters around this week following a hefty defeat to Wolverhampton side Fordhouses.

The Bank suffered an eight wicket beating from Fordhouses and now find themselves propping up the bottom of Birmingham League Division Two.

The Bank lost a crucial toss then found themselves skittled out for just 86 runs.

Fordhouses then raced to victory in reply by reaching 90 for two inside 18 overs.

Skipper Steve Adshead proved pick of Astwood Bank's batting with 35 while Ryan Blakemore added 25, but there was precious little support.

Spokesman Pete Alexander admitted: "We were never going to win the game with 86 runs.

"We managed to keep their openers quiet for a while, but then they went after our off-spinners and that was it."

Alexander added: "We've found it particularly tough during the past three or four games, but never at any stage have we been out of the game and I'm sure matters will start turning around if we keep working hard."

The Bank's preparations weren't helped when both Alexander and Dan Thomas had to drop out late through injury with Tom Shepherd and Andre Jagielski drafted into the side.

The Bank visit Penkridge this Saturday and then on Sunday host Worcester County Premier side Hagley in the Worcestershire final of this season's National Village Knock Out.

Having reached last season's semi-finals, the Bank will be bidding to go one better this time. Play commences at 1.30pm.