RAINFORD continue to freefall down the Southport League after Saturday's mauling against local rivals Skelmersdale.

Batting first, Rainford crawled to 129-9 from their 50 overs despite an opening stand of 50 in double quick time from Cook and Martyn.

The only other innings worth a mention was a fine unbeaten 25 at the end from Matt Brookes who showed the benefit of concentration.

Interruptions for rain left Skem with only 24 overs to score the runs, a task they completed in the final over despite a fine spell of bowling from Poynton and some sharp work behind the wicket from Childs.

The seconds entertained Southport side St Phillips in a match sponsored by the Nationwide Building Society.

Rainford batted first and rattled up 173-6 as John Pickavance turned back the clock to register a big-hitting 62.

Along the way he received excellent support from Chris Welding whose well-struck 48 could see him challenging for a first team place once more.

Again the earlier interruptions for rain left Rainford with very little time to impose themselves upon the St Phillips batsmen.

Ricky Gallagher bowled well for his one wicket as did the rejuvenated Welding, however, the game fizzled out for a tame draw with St Phillips on 110-3.

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