RAINFORD stormed to the top of the Southport and District League on Saturday after a three-wicket success over visitors Norley Hall.

Hall took first use of a dream batting wicket and looked well set for a big score as they scorched to 101-1 from 24 overs with Robinson being the only successful home bowler. Skipper Harrison then introduced medium pacer Curran who turned the innings up-side down by claiming 5-55 in a spell of high quality seam bowling. Robinson also returned to finish with 3-33 as the Hall innings finished at 161 all out.

Robinson and Cook then set about the reply in typical fashion. Robinson departed for a well-struck 45 and even when Cook was out for 48 Rainford still looked in a commanding position with only 35 required from the final 18 overs. Curran and Harrison both reached double figures but then the jitters set in as four wickets fell scoring the last 15 runs, but time was on Rainford's side as they eased to victory.

The second team travelled to Norley Hall and had Maddison, Pickavance, Davies and Warbrick to thank for their impressive 189 total. Unfortunately the bowling wasn't of the same calibre and the hosts were able to cruise to a six-wicket triumph.

The under 13s won the Merseyside Youth Cricket Eric Tatlock Trophy beating Southport and Birkdale by 22 runs. Mark Williams' side defeated Sefton, Mossley Hill and Hightown on the way to the trophy and as a result now face Darwen in the County round this Sunday.