INVERCLYDE achieved a losing draw against Clydesdale side Bees in this Division Four fixture at Gourock Park on Saturday.

But the hosts were disappointed not to take advantage of an impressive initial bowling spell.

Inverclyde’s opening bowlers, captain Gareth James and Paul Singh, both bowled accurate opening spells, backed up by first change Matt Walton in his first game for the club.

David Thomson held two catches at point to Singh’s bowling as wickets fell regularly before partnerships could be established.

Bees had been restricted to 75 for six after 20 overs, but no further wickets were to fall as the visiting captain Hart dominated the second half of the innings, helped by two missed chances in the field, and getting the benefit of a confident stumping appeal midway through his innings.

Hart finished on 81 not out, and along with Moulton took the score to 178 for six after 40 overs, with Singh finishing with three for 15, Walton two for 45 and James one for 21.

In reply Inverclyde were well placed at 50 for one after 17 overs.

However, opener Dave Cooke was then bowled by Rashid for 27, and four further wickets fell over the next seven overs, as Inverclyde moved behind the run rate at 75 for five after 24 overs.

Singh and James took the score to 94, but James was also bowled by Rashid for 14 in the 29th over, leaving Singh, who batted well for 28 to top score for the locals, content to play out for the losing draw.

Inverclyde’s innings closed at 128 for six after the 40 overs.

Inverclyde’s next match is away to Glenpark on Saturday.