THE City of Ely were brought back down to earth following their promising start to the season after they lost out to Histon by 34 runs. Strong bowling from Ely put them into a strong position going in at tea but they were undone as they tried to force

THE City of Ely were brought back down to earth following their promising start to the season after they lost out to Histon by 34 runs.

Strong bowling from Ely put them into a strong position going in at tea but they were undone as they tried to force the pace with the bat and ultimately slipped to their first defeat this season.

Bowling first Ely acquitted themselves admirably without a host of first-team regulars and restricted the visiting side to 193-6 from their 45 overs. Mark Higginson and Andy Buck were the pick of the bowlers as they picked up 2-41 and 2-40 respectively.

The home side were cautious in reply on what was a slow wicket and, after a series of cheap dismissals, found themselves in the mire somewhat. A late charge from Kevin Felton, who notched up 35, and Michael Sellers (17) provided hope but it wasn't to be as Histon cleaned up the tail with little fuss.