Simon White’s impressive display with both bat and ball wasn’t enough for St Albans as they went down to a 79-run defeat against Watford Town on Saturday.

It was clear a dry wicket would favour the batting side considerably and losing the toss immediately left St Albans at a disadvantage.

Watford unsurprisingly opted to bat first and soon set about tucking into the St Albans attack to finish their innings on 261-9.

They were met with plenty of resistance on their way and White was particularly productive with the ball and claimed 3-45 to record his side’s best figures.

Daniel Rosson was the next best bowler for St Albans and picked up 2-64 while Uttam Vijender (1-47) and Jacob Winfield (1-59) both claimed a wicket apiece.

St Albans’ other two successes in the field came by way of run outs.

With a large total to chase down, it was vital that St Albans’ openers set the tone for their side’s chase.

White did just that as he scored a fine 67 from number two but a lack of partners throughout the order meant his efforts went unrewarded.

Matt Howeson briefly offered hope of a St Albans fightback when he dug in for a resilient 32 but he too couldn’t stop the Town march towards victory.

Once Howeson had been removed it became a matter of time for Watford to finish off the remainder of St Albans’ number.

Vijender offered one final stand in the face of the host’s superiority and posted a score of 19 which included three fours.

However, the St Albans innings ultimately came to a close with 49.2 overs bowled.

The loss means St Albans have been beaten in each of their last three games and are in need of a morale boosting return to winning ways.

They will hope to do just that when they take on Totteridge Millhillians at Clarence Park on Saturday.