SKIPPER Bryn Simmons says he is targeting a top-three finish after Ludlow Cricket Club romped to a 100-run victory against Cound.

Richard Taylor top scored with 43 and then Matthew Kennedy bagged 4-16 after Ludlow had declared after posting 176-4 from 41 overs.

Ludlow are fourth in the Shropshire County League Premier Division and travel to second-placed Reman Services this Saturday.

“The decision to declare was nothing to do with the strength of the opposition, it was down to the wet weather,” explained Simmons.

“We went off the field three times due to the rain and we lost 10 overs and I feared that the match would not finish.”

Simmons praised the efforts of Kennedy, Louis Watkins (3-28) and Taylor (2-22) who helped to shoot out Cound for 76 in the 29th over.

Simmons said: “As a team, we feel that if we can post between 150 and 160 runs then we have a good enough bowling attack to get teams out for less.

“Matt Kennedy bowled very well and I took him off because teams try just to keep their wickets intact against him and play defensively.

“But I brought him back on at the end and he cleaned up the last few wickets.

“It was great to see Louis Watkins back in the groove. He works every other week so it’s not always to pick him for the first team. But he is a very good bowler and did very well for us.”

Ludlow have a strong side to travel to high-flying Reman Services weekend.

Simmons said: “A top-four finish in the league is realistic for us but we are putting pressure on Wem who are in third spot. It would be fantastic to get into the top-three after the poor start to the season we had.”