CIRENCESTER CC 1st XI were indebted to a third-wicket partnership of 129 by David Shackleton and Dominic Jeffcott on Saturday for their 59-run County League win over Cheltenham Civil Service.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, both Cirencester openers were dismissed within the first six overs, bringing together Jeffcott and Shackleton at the crease.

They started slowly as Stephens bowled a miserly first spell, conceding just five runs off his opening nine overs.

But they imposed themselves once the change bowlers came on. Shackleton looked to hit over the top of the infield while Jeffcott placed the ball into the gaps on a slow wicket.

Jeffcott's 75 came off 97 balls and Shackleton, who provided a steadying influence on the side's innings, recorded 64 off 118 balls.

The visitors scored 74 off the last ten overs to reach 178-7, aided by a Richard Graham cameo whose running between the wickets boosted the run rate.

The hosts' reply got off to the worst possible start with Iain Moore taking two wickets in two balls with the score on 17.

An impressive opening partnership with James Shackleton restricted the scoring rate.

Civil Service's Febery, who played a composed innings, gained some support from Williams and Baker in stands of 31 and 25 respectively as they reached 83-3.

Williams and Baker both fell to John Turton, who gave little away on his return from injury.

The latter's wicket started the rot for a Cheltenham side that lost their last seven wickets for just 36 runs. James Constable proved to be Town's catalyst, taking four wickets in a six-over spell with his impressive pace.