ROYSTON seconds completed a forgettable weekend for the club with a heavy defeat at Harlton. On a difficult wicket Royston batted with grit and determination, but found runs slow to accumulate. However, an excellent 16-over opening partnership, between

ROYSTON seconds completed a forgettable weekend for the club with a heavy defeat at Harlton.

On a difficult wicket Royston batted with grit and determination, but found runs slow to accumulate.

However, an excellent 16-over opening partnership, between Mick Miller and 14-year-old Rory Harper was compiled with considerable quality.

Miller was the first to depart, after he fell foul of an unplayable ball that pitched just short of a length and zipped through to hit the stumps. Harper continued for a battling 26, including two boundaries.

Jon Adler came to the crease with quick runs needed, and he was clearly in the mood to oblige. The tall Australian, in his first season with Royston and making his first appearance for the seconds, smashed 44 from 40 balls, including three big sixes.

Adler was the only Royston batsman to prosper on the challenging surface, but he fell in the 32nd over to leave Royston on 131.

Harlton's Griggs (67 not out) then batted with great authority, timing the ball fluently.

Royston simply had no answer with anything short being punished.

As a result the home side reached their target for the loss of only one wicket and with 15 overs to spare.