By SAM GOODY

HADLEIGH & Thundersley suffered a 178 run defeat against Hornchurch, reports Sam Goody.

Hornchurch’s win put them top of the Shepherd Neame Essex League Premier Division table and left Hadleigh just 15 points above the relegation zone.

Hornchurch won the toss and chose to bat.

And, after a 50 opening partnership, Hadleigh struck twice in quick succession.

Adam Dobson removed Frankie Jacobs and Haider Zaidi dismissed Ronnie Saunders to leave the visitors 52-2.

But any momentum Hadleigh may have had was quickly stopped by a strong Hornchurch side.

Billy Gordon and Michael Bones struck fifties in a century stand as Hornchurch grasped control of the game.

But they once again suffered a mini collapse, losing three wickets for six runs, leaving them 185-5.

However, the fifth wicket saw former Pakistan all-rounder Muhammad Irfan come to the crease, and he took the game away from Hadleigh.

He sent the bowling attack to all parts as he smashed 57 runs off just 33 balls, including six sixes, as he blasted Hornchurch to a total of 298-6.

And in reply, Hadleigh crumbled to 120 all out, with three wickets each for Irfan and Gordon.

They never recovered from slipping to 8-3, resulting in a 178 run defeat.

A brave 65 not out from Sam Handley was the only innings of note for Hadleigh.

But he could do nothing to prevent a disappointing loss for his side.

Hadleigh - who were promoted from Division One last season - are now eighth in the 10 team table, immediately above the drop zone.

The defeat ended a two match winning streak for Richard Revell’s side.

But Hadleigh will now be looking to get back on track when they travel to Ilford this weekend.