THE hard work and patience finally paid off for Haydock as both first and second teams had good wins over Litherland in the Southport and District League.

Haydock first entertained Litherland and posted a resounding victory and serve notice to the leaders that they can challenge for honours.

Batting first, Haydock made a good start with Nafees Din and Dave Cross looking set. Din is enjoying a purple patch at the moment and he produced an excellent 55. Dave Cross took up from where he had left off the previous week, to make 36 before slipping up. Andy Bentham chipped in with 26 while Chris Nuttall played well for his 16 as Haydock went on to make 178-10.

The Litherland reply was a bit shaky as the Haydock bowlers began to apply the pressure. Dave Burrows, in particular, was very quick in his first spell and was almost unplayable at times. Dave finished with 3-36. Andy Bentham looked back to his best with the ball he got the ball to lift and seam and deserved his 3-27. Din returned 3-25 to earn himself the Barry Wood Gold award as Litherland were all out for 113.

The seconds also enjoyed a victory over Litherland seconds. Derek Gibson found the bowling to his liking and attacked the bowlers at every turn, finishing with 102 not out. Barry Cross shared in this fantastic partnership he sent shots crashing round the ground finishing with a magnificent 48 as Haydock raced to 217-5 .

Gibson's team mates did not let him down with the ball. Steve Plant and Steve Bridge were absolutely brilliant as Litherland were shot out for 57.

The Juniors sponsored by Ken Grundy of Deiketer Metals did not have much luck with the weather. Most of the age groups were either rained off or rain-affected.

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