Hodnet and Peplow faced Shrewsbury IIIs last Saturday in a reduced, 35-over game.
Hodnet batted first, with openers Billy France (32) and Barry Managh (36) putting on 77 for the first wicket.
They had good support from Mike Bircher (23) and Rob Mottershead (20) but after a promising start, Hodnet failed to capitalise and lost quick wickets in the last few overs, finished on 141 for seven.
In reply, Shrewsbury made a steady start with John Clayton (1-32) and Rob Mottershead opening the bowling for Hodnet. As the visitors’ ate into the home side’s total, top scorer Shane Vella (39 not out) led the way.
For Hodnet, Barry Managh (1-13) and David Tunks (2-23) provided hope but Mike Bircher and Neil Humphries bowled well without reward.
Shrewsbury won the game in the penultimte over, leaving Hodnet to ponder over a disappointing result.
But a good team performance from Hodnet does give hope for next week’s crunch game with St Georges.
Meanwhile, Sunday saw the annual President’s Day take place which brought victory for the President’s XI by 51 runs.
Alex Saunders (54) and Tim Saunders (68) led the way, with David Tunks finishing with figures of 3-9.
In reply, Hodnet’s best batsmen were Gordon Watkins (48) and Barry Managh (37), with wickets for Neil Humphries (3-5), Tim Saunders (2-6), Julian Smallman (2-2) and John Baker 2-14.
A good family day was enjoyed by all, rounded off by a barbecue.
This Saturday, Hodnet and Peplow are away to St Georges, and theseconds host Whittington IIs.