A DRAMATIC batting collapse against league leaders Cirencester saw Stone suffer their second consecutive defeat and slip to fifth in the table.

At 82-1 in pursuit of 169 to win, they looked on course for a victory that would have put them top of the table, but they have now dropped three places in a tight division.

Trevor Burley hit 29 and shared 46 for the first wicket with Ian Hall, before Adam Palmer struck three fours and one six in his knock of 23.

When Palmer and Hall (25) were dismissed, Stone were reduced to 100-3.

The hosts then lost three wickets for five runs, as Dave Jones, skipper Pete Lavis and Henry Ball fell.

Simon Rowe (6-24) then ripped through the tail.

Charlie Viney (4-35) and Hall (4-40) had earlier taken four wickets apiece, while Burley took 2-39 to bowl Cirencester out for 168.

This Saturday, Stone visit Frocester 3rds, who are just one place off the foot of the table.

Stone 2nds suffered a massive 247-run defeat at Corse and Staunton 2nds.

Ben Morton struck an incredible 225 not out for the home side, including 26 fours and nine sixes, to help his side reach 317-4.

Steve Carter and James Barnes took two wickets apiece for Stone.

The visitors were bowled out for just 70, Keith Driver top scoring with 18.