DARWEN failed to close in on leaders Netherfield after slipping to a shock 72-run defeat at the hands of Fleetwood.

With only two games played due to the early heavy rain, Darwen missed the ideal opportunity to move in on the leaders.

The Fleetwood innings was reduced to 42 overs and with overcast conditions and a damp outfield they progressed comfortably to 58 for one before the introduction of Gareth Cordingley swung the game Darwen's way. He claimed the wickets of Dewhurst (28), Marillier (3) and Wright (2) in his first five overs at a cost of just 13 runs.

Cordingley went on to claim a further two wickets as single-handedly he reduced Fleetwood to 102 for six. However, Darwen failed to push home the advantage as a late spurt from Sharrock (43) and Ellis (17) helped to take the total to 164 by the close.

Darwen's reply got off to the worst possible start with both openers back in the pavilion for the addition of just four runs. It soon became 10 for three before a mini revival took Darwen to 35.

A further three wickets fell for the addition of two runs, including the bizarre dismissal of Keith Semple as he played on trying to fend off a short pitched delivery from Hill, to leave Darwen facing the abyss at 37 for six.