OPENING batsman Dalrymple blasted Rainford into a commanding position against current unbeaten leaders Mawdesley.

After losing ths toss, Rainford were asked to bat on a home track.

However, Mawdesley had bargained without the destructive Dalrymple who from the moment he despatched opening bowler Rotherham for six in the first over put the visitors in total command.

A further eight maximums, numerous fours, three lost balls and one smashed windscreen later Dalrymple finally succumbed to the shell shocked Mawdesley attack, playing on for a top class 109.

Meanwhile, fellow opener Cook played his part in the 150 opening stand, his 31 being the perfect foil for Dalrymple. In the late run chase both Robinson and Harrison contributed useful runs as Rainford reached a respectable 214-5.

In reply the Mawdesley batsmen realised that former glories meant for nothing against the psyched up visitors. Only Hughes and Caunce made any impression against the Rainford attack as Schofield (3-28), Welding (2-22) and Harrison (2-39), backed up by some superb fielding reduced the hosts to 140/8 at the close.

The Second XI struggled against Mawdesley at home. Asked to bat first Rainford managed to total 150 with Maddison (36), Harrison (23no) and extras (38) being the only worthwhile totals.

Mawdesley managed to reach their target for the loss of only three wickets despite fine spells from Harrison (2-35), Haskayne and Williams.

Match ball sponsor was Fred Carlisle.

On Sunday the First XI reached the semi final of the Sandhurst Shield with a 109 run mauling of Rufford. Rainford were asked to bat and reached 250-7 from their 45 overs thanks to fine knocks from Cook (42), Robinson (36), Calland (47) and Harrison (71).

The home side had no answer to Rainford's accurate attack, with Harrison, Donnelly and Dalrymple all amongst the wickets as they were shot out for 141.

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