LEYLAND have moved one point ahead of Preston - who are firmly anchored at the foot of the table.

At Fox Lane, Leyland came close to recording their first win of the season. They fell six runs short of victory against Blackpool.

The visitors made 203-6, with professional Yasas Tillekaratne top scoring with 64.

In reply, Mark Pallett made 55, and Ian McDonald 43. Leyland required 11 runs off the last over but the run chase just eluded them.

At West Cliff, Preston were beaten by six wickets by Netherfield.

Batting first, Preston totalled 154-6, but the visitors given a firm foundation by Graham Clarke who made 69, cruised to victory with seventeen year old, Gareth White making 47.

At the half-way point of the season, St Annes have taken an 11 points lead over Chorley and Lancaster.

St Annes beat Lancaster, the former league leaders, at Lune Road by three wickets, with three balls to spare.

Leyland DAF kept up their recent improvement with a winning draw at Fleetwood.

Batting first they made 204 off their allotted 50 overs. Opening batsman Steven Knox top scored with 78, and professional David Makinson supported him with 64.

Fleetwood finished in reply with 171 for 8. Leyland captain Dipak Patel took four for 69.

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