BROMSGROVE skipper Mark Evenson admitted the first half of this season has been one to forget.

Having been unable to field anywhere near a full strength side so far this term, Bromsgrove suddenly find themselves hovering just above the Birmingham League Division One drop zone.

Their prospects weren't helped with a two wicket defeat at lowly Leamington after Bromsgrove failed to put enough runs on the board.

Evenson offered no excuses after Bromsgrove made a splendid start with the bat to reach 167 for two at one stage.

But a final total of 251 for six, was by Evenson's own admission, a good 20 runs short.

Jayden Levitt laid the foundation for a large total having made 99 off 108 balls before getting himself run out one run short of his century.

Solid contributions from fellow opening bat Lewis Cordes who added 32 while Ryan Pedley provided a further 57 suggested a huge total was in the offing.

Evenson said: "It's the first time this season that we'd set ourselves a platform, but Jayden's run-out was to prove critical, because had he gone onto make 120 to 130, it would have made all the difference.

"As it was, we never quite batted Leamington out of the game, owing to the fact the wicket was flat and the outfield like lightening.

"In reply, we didn't bowl well as a unit and Leamington, who were looking over their shoulder prior to the game, we able to take advantage."

Waqar Ahmed with 61 and Matt Payne who provided 89 not out, saw Leamington home on 252 for eight despite the efforts of Evenson who took four for 51 off 16 overs.

Evenson also bemoaned the fact he was again missing several key players.

Ash Newfield remains on the sidelines injured while seasoned strike bowler Gareth Williams has been diagnosed with pleurisy after picking up a chest infection.

Added to that, Warwickshire's Aaron Thomason made himself unavailable and Evenson added: "We can't keep missing so many key players every week. Until we get a sustained 11, survival is the key.

"The Seconds are flying high at the moment, but you need experience at this level, players who have a bit of know-how about them who can get you over the line.

"If we can get our best 11 out, it would make a big difference and lift confidence. At this level, there's no hiding place."

Bromsgrove host strugglers Brockhampton this Saturday at St Godwalds Park in a game that could have major implications at the bottom of the table.