An early blitz of wickets were inconsequential as Marlow went down to a 35-run defeat to Thames Valley Division One leaders Stoke Green on Saturday.

With Green batting first, Marlow knew they needed a good start against a side that has lost just three times this season.

They got exactly that with Steve Sylvester (5-30) being particularly productive in reducing the champions elect to 53-6.

He was well backed up by Paul Brzezicki and Marlow looked set to be heading for a big advantage ahead of padding up themselves.

However, a last-wicket stand of 60 between Zulfi Butt (59) and the eternally patient Arjun Kashyap (nine not out) salvaged things for Green to leave Marlow needing 174 to win.

Their openers made a strong start to the chase with Imran Nawaz (37) and Ben Peel taking the attack to Green’s spinners to pile on 44 without loss in the first 10 overs.

The departure of Peel proved to be a turning point though as only Graeme Paskins (19) made it into double figures from the remainder of their order.

The spin bowling of Sajid Aziz caused Marlow problems throughout and he was the most productive of the bowlers with 6-53.

He was well supported by Hash Hussain (2-21), while Butt added to his half-century by claiming 2-54.

The defeat leaves Marlow firmly camped in mid-table, while Stoke Green maintain their advantage over second placed Chesham at the summit of the table.