THE Railway beat the Foundry by six runs in a close and tense match.

Skipper Chapman put the Railway into bat but it wasn't long before man-of-the-match Craig Fairclough hit out, getting seven sixes and three fours on his way to 73.

Landlord Billy Barnes gave sturdy support before being caught and bowled by veteran Britten.

At 109 for 3 a mini-collapse was started by the demonic spin of Tony Secombe. John Tickle got three wickets but should have been four when 'keeper Roberts dropped an easy catch, saying: "I wasn't expecting the ball to come to me".

Steady Eddy Picard bowled tightly but is still looking for his first wicket and Steve Southern, recovering from a broken wrist, only conceded six runs.

The Railway's bowling was accurate and brought the gentle trickle of wickets of Steady Eddy, Big Shorts, Dean Shaw, Roberts, Collier and Chapman. Billy Barnes got two wickets in six balls. The other wicket takers were Davour, McCarthy, Rowson and Fairclough

The Bulls Head beat Standard Mower. For the Bull, Tony Atkin scored 30 and Raleigh Ralphs 34. Tony O'Malley, who normally runs away from catches, caught two. It was said that Ladbrokes made a huge loss on that bet! Bald Eagle Brotherston grabbed two wickets and ran out Mick Mullowney before he had faced a ball. Sniffer Roach also got two wickets although Steve Cawley gave still resistance by scoring 21 not out.

The Boars Head enjoyed a notable victory against the Bridgewater.

In the absence of captain Atherton and stalwart McSheen who were away on religious duties, vice captain Stewart steered his team to the win, scoring 60 not out with Lee Smith making 61. For the Bridgewater, Mick Hailwood made 76.