Bessborough first XI notched their first win of the season against Barnet Barclays on Saturday - but it still was not enough to lift them off the foot of the MCC League Division Three table.
An inspired performance in the field allowed Bessborough to bowl out the visitors for just 126 off 47.2 overs. Ian Barrie and Gary Linton were the pick of the bowlers, picking up 4 for 31 and 3 for 29 respectively.
In reply, Bessborough slipped from 41 for nought to 83 for four before South African pair Linton and Werner Botha steered them home for a vital 10 points.
The second string suffered a 69-run defeat to South Hampstead after being skittled for 180 in their chase for 249, which the victors declared at 249 for 7 in 50 overs. Phil Bush top scored for 'Boro with 60.
It was a close run thing, however, between Bessborough thirds and their Richmond counterparts. The hosts declared on 231 for eight after 46 overs but 'Boro were skittled for 203, with Kushal Patel crashing home 70.
Prior to their weekend action Bessborough hosted the MCC as part of the club's centenary celebrations. A brilliant ton by Australia-bound Ian Barrie led the hosts to a memorable six wicket victory at Headstone Manor.
The MCC, led by former Bessborough legend Graham Sainsbury, were put into bat and scored 253 for 4 off 50 overs. Clayson top scored with 119 while Bessborough captain Sherrick Chavda picked up two wickets.
The hosts lost talented colt Kushal Patel in the fourth over but the setback seemed to galvanise Rupert Thacker and Ian Barrie, who put on 113 in 27 overs, which led the foundation of the innings. After Thacker was dismissed for 54, Barrie found good support from captain Chavda.
Barrie reached his hundred off 95 balls and he was eventually dismissed by former Bessborough, Middlesex and Somerset bowler Keith Dutch for a magnificent 125.
Chavda was dismissed soon after and it was left to wicket-keeper Wayne Whitson and Werner Botha to see Bessborough home, with Botha finishing the game with a six-over long on.
