LEDBURY’S second XI bounced back from a heavy defeat at Goodrich to beat Ross-on-Wye seconds by five wickets in Marches Cricket League Division Three.

After winning the toss and batting first, Ross were reduced to 30-4 after a fine opening burst by Neil Andrews (3-6).

But home captain Theo Minnie went on the attack and with the help of Liz Jeffryes got the innings back on track.

Minnie scored a chancy 78 but when Harry Eales dismissed Jeffryes (10) and the top scorer in quick succession Ledbury got back control.

Eales went on to to claim 3-43 and Karl Foskett claimed a brace of wickets as Ross closed on 156-9 after 45 overs.

On an increasingly slow and low surface, Ledbury had their work cut out to chase down the home team’s total.

But with Simon Watkins digging in with 32 and the other Ledbury players batting around him the visitors nudged their way towards their target.

Foskett (17) and Steve Burgess (12) helped Watkins but it was left to skipper Chris Ritchie to see Ledbury to victory with a responsible and accomplished 44 not out.

Ledbury got past the Ross total with nine balls left and five wickets down.

Ledbury visit Garnons on Saturday while the firsts host Woolhope in Division Two.

After moving to their new ground last season, Ledbury will be holding an official opening day on Sunday.

There will be a 30-over challenge match between a Ledbury Select XI and  Herefordshire Select XI at 2pm with the official opening ceremony taking place at tea time.

There will be a barbecue running during the afternoon and teas and cakes will also be on sale in the clubhouse.

The club will be having a prize raffle on the day and the bar will be open all afternoon.

All visitors are most welcome.

Meanwhile, Eastnor were bowled out for just 68 as they suffered a 10-wicket thrashing at Five Ways Old Edwardians in Worcestershire League Division Three.

Only opener Chris Dandy (23) and tailender Callum James (14) got into double figures for the visitors.

Five Ways cruised to their victory target in 8.4 overs.