HEREFORDSHIRE County Cricket Club's second-string side narrowly beat The Army by one one on a dramatic day at Colwall.

It was the second XI's first fixture of this campaign, with further games against Gloucestershire Academy, Worcester County League and Staffordshire set to follow.

A two-day match against Worcestershire Academy is also in the pipeline.

Herefordshire won the toss and elected to bat on an outstanding wicket.

Captain Tom Coleman carried on his good form with his club by notching an elegant run-a-ball 50 despite wickets tumbling around him.

He was eventually run out for 62 for the loss of four wickets.

Jack Aldous-Fountain rebuilt the innings with support from Sam Crichard (18), Ben Wheeler (31) and Taylor Pugh (43).

Aldous-Fountain batted with maturity and class as he was finally dismissed for a crucial 83, ensuring Herefordshire posted a competitive 256 off 48 overs.

In defence of their target, Herefordshire got off to a steady start as The Army slowly stopped below the required rate.

Ryan Tongue picked up two quick wickets with his off spin, but The Army fought back with some hard hitting during the last 20 overs, leaving them 90 to get off the last 10 overs.

At the death, Pugh came to the fore to deliver a superb spell of nine overs, two maidens and two wickets for 29 runs to secure the narrowest of wins.

The match against Gloucestershire Academy will be at Eastnor on Friday, July 10.