Clevedon found themselves slithering further into the mire of relegation after a one-sided, 100-run mauling by WEPL champions-elect Bath.

North Somerset Times: Clevedon's Nick Carpenter drives (pic Jason Crane)Clevedon's Nick Carpenter drives (pic Jason Crane) (Image: Archant)

With the exception of their go-it-alone hero Harry Ellison, Clevedon's batsmen had absolutely nothing whatsoever to offer as once again they permitted an opposition attack to dictate each and every phase of the innings.

The indomitable century-maker Ellison could have won this game had there been even the slightest suggestion of defiance at the other end, but he was forced to play a lone hand as every one of his teammates arrived and then departed with indecent haste.

Winning the toss, the visitors took full advantage of the ideal batting conditions and they cruised along while Clevedon's attack sweltered in the blazing sun.

An undefeated century from opener Greg Hay (101 not out), together with sizeable contributions from George Hankins (38), Tim Rouse (57) and Sam Mount (39 not out), enabled Bath to post a daunting target of 279-4.

Masoor Khan (2-61) nabbed a brace for Clevedon and with conditions still perfect for batting there were hopes of a defiant response for the hosts.

But once again they didn't even flatter to deceive they just deceived and were two wickets down for just 12 runs.

Ellison then took control and played with imperious freedom as he gave a classic batting masterclass.

A total of 12 boundaries illuminated his quite sublime and undefeated 100 but he was never given any support as wickets were thrown away.

Only two other batsmen reached double figures and it took 25 extras to secure an extra batting point, as the other eight batsmen garnered just 26 runs between them.

When they needed to play a watching brief in order to support Ellison, most were dismissed trying to swat the ball over the clubhouse and Clevedon were once again unable to utilise their full 50 overs.

The defending champions are now tangled in a genuine battle against the drop and the inability of the batsmen to cope with even the most moderate of attacks must surely be addressed before it's too late. This Saturday's clash with Taunton on Dial Hill must be won.

Standings: Bath 153 pts; Potterne 148; Bridgwater 143; Bedminster 124; Lansdown 116; Downend 100; Cheltenham 98; Clevedon 86; Bristol 77; Taunton St Andrews 75.