Leek move into second

Leek leapfrogged Wood Lane into second place after they beat their title rivals in the North Staffs and South Cheshire Premier League by five wickets.

Wood Lane won the toss and decided to bat but were dismissed for 131, Mathew Hagan top scored with 49, while Colin Dearden claimed figures of 6-50. Leek reached their target in the 40th over and now sit two points behind Hem Heath and six points in front of Wood Lane.

Hem Heath moved to the top spot when they eased past Knypersley by seven wickets. Knypersley stuttered to 157 for five from their 55 overs, Jonathon Cumberbatch (48) was the highlight for the visitors.

In reply Ben McGuire struck 55 from 44 balls, but it was opener John Cheadle (58 not out) who saw his side over the line.

Andrew Barnett kept Sandyford’s hopes of survival alive as he took figures of 7-22 as relegated Barlaston were blown away for 50. Sandyford then strolled past the target with the loss of two wickets, closing the gap to Knypersley and safety to seven points.

Audley beat Stone by 13 runs when they were able to defend 140. James Ecclestone took 6-42 as Audley were bowled out in the 42nd over. Craig Barker (6-55) and Roger Silence (4-25) then did the damage for Audley as they dismissed Stone 127.

Michael Longmore’s efforts weren’t enough to prevent his side experiencing as 33 run defeat against Little Stoke who ease their relegation fears.

Longmore claimed figures of 4-30 as Little Stoke were all out for 152, he then hit 71 and was the only batsmen to put up resistance against Daniel Colclough (7-59).

Porthill Park picked up the winning draw against Burslem, when they declared on 246-7, Dan Hancock and Ian Butler both hitting 56. In reply Burslem made it to 204-7, Christopher Roberts (47) top scoring.