RAINFORD Cricket Club had the chance to continue their fine start to the season against title hopefuls Highfield on Saturday -and blew it!

The game also contained an added ingredient in that Highfield's overseas player is Grant Martyn, the younger brother of Rainford's Aussie star, Troy.

But as a contest it was a non-starter.

Rainford were all out for 80 and Highfield made 81-3.

On the positive side, batting on a difficult wicket Dave Kearsley did well and in the field Troy Martin to a catch to dismiss brother Grant that would have graced any cricket ground.

Wicket-keeping recruit Childs also continued to impress.

Match ball sponsor was Geoff Gee Enterprises.

For the third Saturday running the second team were involved in a last-over thriller.

However, in contrast to previous weeks, Rainford claimed maximum points against Rufford in their first victory of the season.

Veteran seamer Keith Haskayne returned 5-70, while Phil Curran chipped in with 3-476, restricting Rufford to 171-9.

In reply, Rainford were given a fine start by skipper John Williams, who posted a determined 42.

After a middle order hiccup, Rainford claimed the points with three balls to spare.

On Sunday, Rainford were knocked out of the Sandhurst Shield by Norley Hall.

Again Rainford were invited to bat on a wet wicket and must have been reasonably happy with 151-9 off their 40 overs.

Troy Martyn, ably assisted by Ste Harrison, Mike Cook and Dave Kearsley led the way, with a textbook 48.

However, the loss of four wickets for the addition of no runs left the last pair, Eaton and Childs, to bat out Rainford's allotted overs.

In reply, the Wiganers struggled to reach 23 from their first 16 overs as bowlers Schofield and Harrison kept a tight grip on proceedings. Eaton, Martyn and Corden continued the good work, but Norley had wickets in hand to launch a final assault.

And when it came Norley reached their target with two balls to spare.

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