SUTTON CC's improved form brought them a welcome victory over Birkenhead in the battle to achieve first division status for next season when the Merseyside Competition separates into two leagues.

Sutton batted first on a fine wicket and compiled an opening stand of 78 thanks to Brian Wearden (23) and Dave Hodgson. Phil Kelly cracked an aggressive 47 as Hogson anchored the innings with a well constructed knock of 75.

Good hitting at the end from Mike Rimmer (35) and Ian Greener (14) saw Sutton declare at 203-5 after 43 overs.

Sutton were fired up by their batting and tore into the visitors after the break. Andy Barnett and Shaun Anders bowled fiery spells to reduce the visitors to 35-3 and then Greener and Mark Reynolds knocked over the middle order with two wickets each.

The visitors had little chance of survival and it was fitting that Sutton skipper Steve Wearden clean bowled the Birkenhead last man to seal the win, Birkenhead all out 143.

After two good wins the seconds were brought down to earth in the return on the Wirral. Birkenhead were bowled out by Geoff Bowles (5-24) and Jeff Pye (3-36) for a paltry 119 on the small ground.

However what seemed an easy task for a strong batting side became a nightmare as home spinner Williams took eight wickets to shoot Sutton out for just 89 runs. Only Phil Jukes (20) and John Lawton (18) achieved double figures as Sutton slumped to a surprise loss.

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