NEW Milton’s top-flight return was ruined by a 24-run home defeat to St Cross Symondians.
The hosts put St Cross in to bat and it looked a savvy decision when George Worker (18) and Louis Kimber were sent packing in quick succession with the score at 69 for four.
Greg Hollins (28) and Jack Bransgrove (28) steadied the ship but Dan Loader (4-43) swiftly tidied up the tail as the visitors finished on 160 all out.
But New Milton’s response never gained the required momentum. Openers Tom Arnold and Dave Wakefield put on 30 between them but some tight bowling, including three maidens for Worker (3-12), saw them lurch to 83 for six.
Lee Beck and Elliott (21*) defiantly put on 43 for the seventh wicket but first-ball ducks for Loader and George Watts ended any resistance as the home side ended on 136 all out.
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