PILKINGTON Spartans claimed their place in the final of the St Helens Rounders League's Emily Collins Cup.

But they were given a real run for their money by TNT.

TNT had Michelle Hilton, Kerry Mather-Waters and Gill Crawford (3) to thank for their rounders, while Michelle pulled off some good catches to cause Spartans some problems.

However, Jean Thompson, Sue Reynolds and Sandra Moore all got two apiece and coupled with some sharp fielding, Spartans earned their final place.

All was not lost for TNT, who went on to take games decisively from Burtonwood and Sutton. Spartans were also fortunate against Pilkington Vikings, largely down to their willingness to take chances and maximise potential half-rounders.

It was a good week all round for Spartans, last years league champions as also they took two points from their nearest rivals Windle.

In the Second Division, with Grasshoppers and UG level last week, Grasshoppers took four points from their two games. UG, although winning just one game, where also able to claim four points having been given the game by Bobbies Lane.

RESULTS

Haydock 15 Sutton CC 16, Grasshoppers 12 Haydock 8, Pilks Crusaders 12 Haresfinch 15, Burtonwood 7 TNT 23, Grasshoppers 11 Haresfinch 7, Pilks Spartans 9 Windle 8, Sutton CC 11 TNT 23, Pilks Spartans 12 Pilks Vikings 11, Haydock 14 Pilks Crusaders 5.