Last season’s third-placed team were edged out by title rivals Ealing trying to defend a total of 183-7

North Middlesex entertain Finchley this weekend looking to claim a first win in this season's Middlesex County Premier Division.

Joel Hughes' team lost by five wickets away to Ealing last Saturday after failing to defend a competitive total of 183-7.

After losing with only four balls to spare at the weekend, North Middlesex will aim to get over the line this time.

Finchley also tasted defeat on the opening day after being put to the sword on home turf by champions Richmond.

North Middlesex came close to a second consecutive win at Ealing, but fell short in the last over of the match.

Evan Flowers top scored for the visitors with 38 and was supported by Will Vanderspar (36) and James Parslow (25).

The away side's total of 183-7 was not enough, however, with Bailey Capel (59) and Ryan Farrell (58) passing fifty for the home outfit.

Hugh Teesdale (2-31) nabbed a brace and Hughes (1-23), Ed Bird (1-32) and Liam O'Driscoll (1-19) claimed wickets too, but it wasn't enough.