HIMLEY fired themselves into title contention with a fine victory over Bromsgrove last Saturday.

They have now won three and picked up a winning draw from their last four games.

The six-wicket win at St Godwald's Park leaves captain Greg Wright's men in fifth place but just four points from current Birmingham and District League Division Two leaders Oswestry.

Jamie Turner (4-58), James Lunn (2-27), Aqab Ahmed (3-70) and Stuart Wedge (1-7) took the wickets as Himley battled hard to bowl out their hosts for 190.

Oliver Westbury's 76 and his vital partnership with Dan Durman (41 not out) guided Himley to victory in the 51st over.

Wright was delighted with the way his side were able to grind out the win.

He said: "It was a good win for us from a tough game in testing conditions.

"We hit a flat point at the start and let them get away with an extra 60 or 70 runs. We thought 190 was a decent score on the pitch and it certainly took some getting.

"Oli Westbury and Dan Durman put together a fantastic partnership. It was great to see two young batters play so maturely.

"The league is tight now but we are at the right end of it and we know we are a good side.

"We have had a few stop-start moments but it really feels like we're in our stride now.

"We have another big game this weekend but it's all about keeping that momentum going."

Himley host second-placed Harborne at Stourbridge Road this Saturday (noon start).