Moddershall triumphant in defeat

Moddershall lost their final match of the season but in claiming seven Little Stoke wickets on their way down, they collected the three bowling points they needed to clinch the championship title in the Waterworld North Staffs and South Cheshire Premier League.

In the end it was a much closer run thing than could have been expected.All out for 125 with skipper Richard Oliver contributing 71, Moddershall secured the three bowling points before Little Stoke passed the target.

Imran Tahir who has been such an important cog in the wheel took 5-67 before heading off to South Africa to resume his contract with the Titans.

Runners up Leek declared on 105 for eight at home to Barlaston then shot the visitors out for 91, but they knew their 25 points would not be enough unless Moddershall had a catastrophic day as opposed to a bad one.

The action at the bottom was no less intense. Wood Lane's 106 run win at Porthill Park secured their place in the top flight for another season with Stafford joining Barlaston in relegation despite a brave win at Stone. Mark Bengry took 5-55 as Stone could manage no more than 91 (Shuan Jenkinson 46). For Stafford, Shawn Hunt and Mark Humphries both scored 26 as the victory was secured by three wickets.

Longton secured third place with a 20 point win at Audley. Dave Edwards took 7-16 as the home side was skittled for just 47. In reply Birks (27) and Longmore (17) gave their side a ten wicket win.

Burlsem won by seven wickets at home to Knypersley. The visitors were 87 for nine from 30 overs in a reduced match. Burlsem reached 91 for three with Alex Bailey 34 not out.