Cricket Alliance reaches its climax (From Crewe Guardian)

Cricket Alliance reaches its climax

12:00pm Thursday 6th September 2012 in Sport

SANDBACH climbed to the top of the Cheshire Cricket Alliance Division One thanks to a one-wicket win against title rivals Haslington.

Haslington thought they had set a tricky total for the hosts to chase, with W Storey’s 68 helping to combat R Cotton’s 5 for 64 as the visitors posted a total of 196 for 9.

But Sandbach were equal to the task, and though Haslington’s bowlers M France, 4 for 46, and T Gledhill, 3 for 67, tried their best, R Kesteven made a brilliant 78 and J Hampshire, 59, as the home side reached 198 for 8.

Sandbach now have two games remaining in order to hold on to their lead, with a vital trip to Old Parkonians to come on Saturday, while Haslington welcome Rylands.

Wistaston’s hope of promotion or a title are fast slipping through their fingers as they fell to a eight-wicket defeat to Stalybridge, and they now must win their home match against Appleton on Saturday if they are to give themselves a chance.

Wistaston suffered a batting collapse as they all fell for 85, which the hosts reached for the loss of just two wickets.

In Division Two, Audlem’s mid-table status is in no danger of slipping away despite an eight-wicket defeat to Wilmslow Wayfarers.

Audlem were dismissed for 67, with M Baldwin taking 3 for 26 and A Mape, 3 for 36, before the hosts knocked out the total for the loss of two wickets.

In Division Three, Haslington seconds’ game with Sandbach seconds was drawn.

Haslington gave themselves a chance of victory by scoring 184 for 7 from their overs, but could not get Sandbach out as they closed on 165 for 9.

Wistaston’s seconds fared no better, with visitors Kerridge winning by 68 runs.