CRANBORNE’S Dorset Division One title hopes suffered a major dent after they were on the wrong end of a 60-run defeat at the hands of improving Parley.

Publicity-shy Parley skipper Robbie Gunn (48) led the way as the visitors posted a modest 181 at Penny Lane (Phil Park 3-37, Charlie Arnold 3-37).

And although Marc Harris (38) remained undefeated, the target was a bridge too far for Cranborne as Alex Nippard (4-9) helped rout them for 121.

Cranborne skipper Dave Coy said: “Parley bowled brilliantly. Marc Harris took a terrific catch and a great knock showed another string to his bow.

“Only time will tell if we can stay in with a shout of winning the league.”

Swanage seized on Cranborne’s slip and leapfrogged them into third place after recording a five-wicket victory over struggling Shillingstone.

Seamer Ben Baczala (4-50) was again in sparkling form with the ball as Swanage restricted Shillingstone to 220 for eight at Ulwell Road.

In reply, Matt Thomas (82) and Francis Kerrins (67) put on 152 for the first wicket as the hosts motored towards their target.

And after the pair had both departed, Ricky King (24) guided Swanage home at 223 for five with two overs to spare.

Swanage captain Ron Barker said: “It was a great partnership and it laid the foundations for us to chase a challenging target. It gave us the momentum to get the result that we needed.

“Our aim at the start of the season was to finish in the top three and this victory has given us a good chance of at least nicking third place.”

• Bournemouth (205-7) suffered an eight-wicket defeat against Henstridge (115-2) in a rain-affected contest, despite the best efforts of George Russell (63).