BANBURY were unable to make up any ground on the leading pack in Home Counties Premier League Division 1 after going down by two wickets in a tight game at Falkland.
The visitors won the toss and batted, but none of their batsmen could really get going.
The dangerous Craig Haupt made a top score of 37, while Ian Hawtin was run out for 31 as they edged to 208-9 from their 66 overs.
However a stand of 89 between Will Chaloner and Dave Balcombe turned the tide in Falkland’s favour.
Ollie Murrey struck twice towards the end, but the home side eked out the couple of runs needed to triumph in the 52nd over.
Paceman Simon Launder grabbed two quick wickets to leave Falkland on 11-2 and at 118-5, the match looked in the balance.