CORSHAM remain unbeaten in their first season in the West of England Premier One after securing a winning draw against Cheltenham at Station Road on Saturday.

All-rounder Paul Marsh hit a century as Corsham racked up 311 for seven in their 55 overs, but the hosts subsequently failed to dismiss their visitors and were forced to settle for ten points.

Cheltenham skipper Baxter won the toss and asked Corsham to bat first on a typically flat Station Road wicket.

The home side were boosted by the return of opener Steve Perrin and the Wiltshire captain raced to 49 in as many minutes before he offered a tame catch to mid-on off the bowling of Godding.

Marsh joined Neil Shardlow at the crease and he fired nine fours and six sixes on his way to an effortless 107 in 88 minutes, before becoming Stewart's only victim of the day with the score on 201 for two.

Shardlow, who had offered solid support to both Marsh and Perrin, then departed for 37, while Roger Sillence, Mark Coxon and Copland all reached double figures as the home side closed their innings on 311.

Cheltenham opening pair Beard and Stenner made a flying start in reply, before the latter returned to the pavilion for 27 after smashing a short and wide delivery from Sillence straight into Coxon's hands at point.

Hodnett joined Beard and the duo continued in positive fashion until an excellent slip catch from the alert Perrin off Gibbens removed the number three for 28.

Marsh replaced Sillence at the Pavilion End and soon accounted for Hall and Howell to reduce the away side to 109 for four. Gibbens came back to remove dangerman Beard for 64, while another slip catch for Perrin off Sillence saw Pope dismissed for 51.

Marsh completed an excellent day with his third wicket, but Cheltenham held on without loss for the final seven overs and closed on 214 for eight.

Corsham travel to Bristol West Indians on Saturday.