RAINHILL produced an encouraging performance with a home draw against fourth-placed Ainsdale.

Batting first, Rainhill made a sticky start at 17-2. But Dominic Sparkes and Mike Rotherham batted solidly as New Zealand professional Blair Hendren bowled with pace.

Rotherham fell for 23 and Sparkes was well supported by Steven Oakes with a flowing 29. Sparkes' 50 was well deserved and when he was out for 56 Rainhill looked in a good position for a substantial score. Yet again wickets fell cheaply and only Nick Chapman with 18 helped Rainhill to score 170 all out.

Peter Mercer gained an early success to leave Ainsdale on 13-1. Professional Hendren stroked the ball around with some authority and Rainhill appeared in deep trouble as the reply moved into the 90s.

The game changed dramatically when Robbie Marshall caught and bowled Hendren for 37. Wickets began to tumble against tight bowling and with overs running out.

To Ainsdale's frustration they required 21 from the final over with only three wickets left. They finally finished on 154-8. Best of the Rainhill bowling Peter Mercer (4-46), Nick Chapman (2-48) and Robbie Marshall (1-37).

Rainhill seconds lost at Ainsdale with the home side scoring 184-3. In reply Rainhill scored 113 with best scores from Ken Bold 35 and Colin Appleton 30.

In midweek Rainhill had a convincing victory over Mossley Hill in the 20 over Lever Cup.

Rainhill hit a record breaking 177 with Dominic Sparkes 65, Dave Bolton 35 and Nick Chapman 22. Mossley Hill batted spiritedly to finish on 144-9.

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