BRIDGWATER II’s defence of their WEPL 2nd XI Premier 1 title suffered a huge setback on Saturday, as a batting collapse saw them fall to a 101-run defeat at the hands of Corsham.

After keeping a strong Corsham side to 227, Bridgwater stumbled to 66-6 and from here, failed to recover as they crashed to 126 all out.

Tight bowling from Ian Bishop (1-34) and Chris Singleton (0-28) restricted Corsham to a quiet start as they crept to 10-0 from eight overs.

The introduction of first change bowlers Higgins (1-36) and Roberts (2-49) brought the all-important breakthrough, and Clapp (2-30) bowled with good discipline at the death to keep Corsham to 227 from 45 overs.

After tea, Bridgwater set about chasing down the total but were always struggling after losing so many early wickets.

Roberts (18) and Habberfield (17) offered the only notable resistance in a partnership of 45, but when they were dismissed after the drinks break the innings tailed away.

Bridgwater will now have to ensure they win their final three games to stand any chance of retaining their league title.

Thanks to Alan Prowse for umpiring, and Andrea Taylor for scoring, coach Sean Boobyer and match ball sponsors TMB Patterns Ltd.