A 12-POINT victory at West Cliff put Chorley back in contention for the Northern Premier League title as leaders Netherfield faltered, taking only one point from a drawn match against Morecambe.
Opening bowlers Iqbal Patel (4-25) and professional Josh Marquet (4-44) had Preston in early trouble and their final total of 119 owed much to an eighth wicket stand of 47 before Shah (38) and Mann (16).
But Chorley themselves ran into difficulties on a poor track and at 68-6 were precariously placed. Not for the first time this season however, the experience of skipper Roland Horridge and Nigel Heaton proved crucial and the pair, who have between them made almost 2,000 runs this season, carried Chorley to the brink of victory.
Nigel Heaton was unbeaten for a majestic 58 at the close. Chorley remain third in the table, now 11 points behind Netherfield and two adrift of Kendal. The two South Cumbria teams meet today in what has become a vital match.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article