HARRY Beardsley’s heroics with the ball once again proved in vain as Wimborne suffered a batting collapse in Saturday’s 67-run home defeat to Stalbridge.

Beardsley, who took six wickets for the Minstermen against Swanage the previous week, claimed another five – including the scalp of the stubborn Ben Fryer (68) – for 42 runs at the Leaze.

However, the hosts failed to seriously trouble their target of 205 with brief flurries of activity at the crease all too often punctuated by quick-fire wickets.

It had started so well for Wimborne when visiting opener Harry Woolway was sent packing for a duck shortly after partner Stuart Sweatman had his innings ended early on.

At 23 for two, Matt Salisbury (42) dug in for a lengthy stint with the bat, while Fryer set about his task with gusto and registered no fewer than nine fours before being caught by James Williams off Beardsley’s delivery.

By then, Stalbridge were on 159 for seven and Robbie Knight (17), Simon Sweatman (31) added crucial runs before falling victim Beardsley’s fearless attack.

A poor start to the response saw off Colin Randall and Tom Caines before solid showings from Joe Weld (29) and Simon Woodruff (24) brought Wimborne back into contention.

But their hopes were quashed when Simon Sweatman (3-37) ended Weld’s afternoon, while James Williams and Ben Ratcliffe were wiped out without score.

Graham Cole (28*) did all he could to carry the fight but received little support as Stalbridge bowler Andy Dike (4-12) swept aside the tail as Wimborne finished on 138.