WES Griffiths admits Halesowen “just didn’t turn up” in their five wicket home defeat to Water Orton.

The Hales skipper was searingly honest in appraising his side’s showing after a result which leaves them floating in Division Two mid-table.

A poor batting display meant the lower order, particularly Cameron Mapstone (36) and Andy Roberts (41 not out), had to dig the hosts out of a hole to post a total of 184 from 48.5 overs.

But this proved no obstacle to the visitors who cruised home despite the best efforts of Dan Jeavons (2-54) and Adam Hawker (2-39).

Griffiths said: “Saturday was a very disappointing day. It started badly with us losing what was an important toss but we cannot use that as an excuse. In all honesty we just didn't turn up.

“We didn’t show the application with either bat or ball and were thoroughly outplayed. Our batting was always likely to have at least one off day through the season and sadly it came this weekend.

“In the end though they came out deserving and comfortable winners.”

The result leaves Hales sixth in the standings ahead of the league leaders Ombersley’s visit to Seth Somers Park this Saturday.

Griffiths added: “It's important now to pick ourselves up for a big performance this week against Ombersley who are a very good side.

“In truth we will need to be far, far better to get the result but I am confident that we can put the blip this week behind us quickly and put on a good show.”

The second XI turned the tables on their Water Orton counterparts with a five wicket win and in doing so got their promotion chase back on track.

After choosing to field, Hales struggled to contain the hosts with Richard Cox (3-34) recording the best figure as they racked up 243-5 from their 50 overs.

But the visitors bounced back after two disappointing weeks with the bat to chase down the total.

James Tandy set the tone with an excellent 53, ably supported by Kester Moseley (36), Martin Harvey (23) and Cox who hit a fine unbeaten 64.

Mark Hutchinson was also in good nick with 39 as Hales reached th total with more than three overs to spare.

The third XI slipped to a third successive defeat as they were comprehensively outplayed by Barnt Green.

Halesowen won the toss and chose to bowl, knocking the visitors over for 189 with Eddie Rhodes taking 3-45 and Rob Reed 3-50.

Given the state of the pitch, this was not a bad total and so it proved when Halesowen came to bat.

The top four were dismissed for 11 runs and the side were eventually all out for just 80, to lose by 109 runs.