Electing to bowl first in the scorching summer heat, LMV fell 50 runs short of their target against Brondesbury Eagles, wilting in the conditions and leaving captain Neil Lederman to rue the absence of a number of the side’s regulars.

Chasing a total of 237 to win, Vale were well-placed at 111-2 - but the curse of Nelson struck to initiate a mini-collapse and the hosts never recovered.

Adam Brand top-scored with 46 and there were useful contributions from Joseph Greenwall-Cohen (31) and Jonny Gould (23), but despite late resistance from Steven Allweis and Jonti Aremband, Vale fell short of their target and were left nursing the bitter taste of defeat.

Earlier in the day, the side had fought back strongly after a decent Brondesbury opening partnership. Benjamin Lederman (4-32) was the pick of the bowlers. He made the initial breakthrough courtesy of a sharp one-handed catch at slip by Danny Caro.

Fourteen-year-old Rayno Greenwall-Cohen (2-23) impressed with his accuracy and consistent posing of questions. 

Brand also picked up a brace of wickets, but Brondesbury’s overseas professional made a chanceless unbeaten 93 to take the game beyond Vale’s reach.

Attention now turns away from the league campaign next week and on to the Official Club Day, where Vale are hoping for another bumper attendance to support the exciting plans for the day.