In a closely fought contest Marlow fell agonisingly short of pulling off a fine run chase as they lost by two-runs against Chesham on Saturday.

The local Thames Valley League Division One rivals have enjoyed differing fortunes this season, with Chesham currently second and Marlow occupying mid-table.

There was little to choose between them, however, as Chesham batted first and set an imposing 259-9 from their 52 overs.

A 34-run opening partnership between Matt Rance (34) and Mark Eteen (13) established a decent start for Chesham.

Luke Webb (55) and Tom Free (30) then put on 65 to keep Chesham in control of proceedings.

Marlow then briefly rallied and managed to establish a foothold in the game as they reduced Chesham to 161-6.

They could not account for a rampant Chesham tail though, as they took the game to the Marlow bowling attack with some aggressive batting.

Gift Kwatsha was particularly potent on his way to top scoring with 61, while Pip France added a useful 24.

Marlow’s effort with the ball saw them share the wicket taking duties with Jeremy Batty (3-74), Ben Peel (2-33), Steve Sylvester (2-56) and Mark Dozell (1-44) all striking.

The home side’s hopes of chasing down the imposing total appeared to be dashed early on as a collapse left them languishing on 18-3.

But a fourth-wicket stand of 90 between opener Barney Hogg (62) and the free-scoring Ben Peel (50) gave their side renewed belief. T

he run out of Hogg could have proved to be vital, but again Marlow stood firm as Simon Carter (54) and Gary Lines (31) built a partnership of 70.

Their hard work would be undone by sloppy running in the pursuit of victory and both Lines and Paul Brzezicki were run out to leave Marlow two runs shy of Chesham’s score.

Kwatsha (3-57) added to his half-century with a fine bowling display to add to wickets for Jamie Anderson (2-51), Mark Eteen (1-10) and Pip France (1-70).

A home meeting with bottom side Windsor awaits Chesham in their next match, while Marlow entertain fourth placed Cove.