JOE Williams’ laudable rescue attempt was not enough as Ludlow CC Firsts lost out at promotion-chasing Madeley in the Shropshire Premier.

A top-order collapse that included golden ducks for both Ludlow openers – Sam Edwards and Luke Miles – left the visitors teetering on the edge of embarrassment at 44-8.

Williams restored some pride with an excellent unbeaten 47, supported by Sam Roberts (20) and last man Alfie Holliehead (17), but Ludlow were still all out for 119.

In reply, Louis Watkins (2-29) took a couple of early wickets and Miles (2-23) also chipped in but Jonathan Prince’s 54 off 43 balls guided Madeley home inside 30 overs.

Ludlow seconds were similarly well beaten in the reverse fixture.

Edwards Riley (72) and skipper Glen Whittaker (36) contributed the bulk of the runs as Ludlow were dismissed for 146.

Joe Webb (2-21) took a couple of wickets in reply but Allan Anson (47) and Alex Dillon (34no) steered Madeley to a comfortable seven-wicket win.

Ludlow thirds were even more comprehensively beaten at Ellesmere, crumbling to 87 all out with only Daniel Ashley (48) making a score of note before the hosts cruised home at 90-3.