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Meggies boost their Lincs survival hopes with win at Caistor

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 08:00:00 GMT

FOUR teams are still battling to avoid the second relegation spot in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division as Cleethorpes 2nds boosted their chances of avoiding the drop with a five-wicket win at Caistor.

The Meggies turned in a fine performance in their final match of the season but they, along with Horncastle, South Kelsey and Bracebridge Heath 2nds, remain in trouble.

Scunthorpe Town ensured their top-flight status by clawing six points from a 37-run defeat against champions Messingham. Bottom team Appleby-Frodingham 2nds are already relegated.

Horncastle won handsomely – by 85 runs – in a very important clash with Bracebridge Heath 2nds.

But South Kelsey's bowlers failed to defend an impressive batting total of 236 and they lost at home to Alkborough.

In Division One, Louth 2nds slumped to a nine-wicket defeat against second-placed Alford, who still have an outside chance of pipping leaders Cherry Willingham to the title.

The table toppers suffered a shock defeat, by seven runs, to second-from-bottom Nettleham 2nds.

Holton-le-Clay suffered a 38-run defeat to third-placed Broughton.

Hykeham are left looking anxiously over their shoulders, having lost by eight wickets to Scothern.

Division two promotion-chasers Market Rasen suffered a disastrous defeat at Owmby, failing to take a single point from their game in hand on second-placed Grimsby Town 2nds.

However, Town have not quite clinched second place with one match remaining.

Bottom side Outcasts 2nds won emphatically by nine wickets in the Isle of Axholme derby against Haxey 2nds, while Alkborough 2nds defeated Hartsholme 2nds by the same margin in a mid-table clash.

In Division Three, Stamford Homes droped to third in the table after a disappointing defeat by 58 runs to Washingborough – but the Grimsby team still have two fixtures to play.

Keelby wrapped up the title after a maximum 20-point win at Cherry Willingham 2nds.

Immingham Blossom Way ensured their safety from relegation with a five-wicket defeat of Barton Town 2nds.

Hibaldstow move into second place following a 14-run win at Scunthorpe Town 2nds, but it was the villagers' final fixture.

With one game to go in division four, Caistor 3rds still have a chance of promotion after a 167-run win against Market Rasen 2nds.

Second-placed Old Lincolnians took only two points from an eight-wicket reverse at Keelby 2nds.

Alford 2nds won handsomely at Brigg Town in the final game of the summer for both teams.

LINCOLNSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET LEAGUE

PREMIER DIVISION: Caistor Town 221 for three (Wijerathne 72, Boulton 50), Cleethorpes 2nds 222 for five (Wragg 59, Rob Griffin 52); Horncastle 208 (A McDowell 5-76), Bracebridge Heath 2nds 123 (Freeman 64, Chandrasakara 6-33); Messingham 213 for six (Andy Cook 58, Adam Cook 58), Scunthorpe Town 186 (Chand 66, Rands 6-36); South Kelsey 236 for seven (Wathukarage 125 not out), Alkborough 240 for six (C Ross 135 not out).

DIVISION ONE: Louth 2nds 107 (Dixon 5-17), Alford 108 for one (A White 54); Broughton 149 (Portess 5-28), Holton-le-Clay 111 (P Clark 7-42); Hykeham 83 (Johnson 7-30), Scothern 84 for two; Nettleham 2nds 132 (Spikings 5-28), Cherry Willingham 125 (Pickering 5-22).

DIVISION TWO: Hartsholme 2nds 124 for six, Alkborough 2nds 125 for one (Gray 61 not out); Haxey 2nds 90, Outcasts 2nds 91 for one; Owmby 125 for two (Bowring 69 not out), Market Rasen 64 (Bain 5-14).

DIVISION THREE: Hibaldstow 175 for seven (J Taylor 102), Scunthorpe Town 2nds 161; Washingborough 229 for seven (Sewell 86, Willey 66), Stamford Homes 171; Barton Town 2nds 95 (R Farmery 5-24), Immingham Blossom Way 97 for five; Cherry Willingham 2nds 159 (Topliss 56, Charlton 6-59), Keelby 162 for four (A Bagnall 58 not out).

DIVISION FOUR: Alford 2nds 150 for six (Honman 59), Brigg Town 43 (K White 7-6); Old Lincolnians 117 (Sheikh 5-12), Keelby 2nds 118 for six; Caistor 3rds 223 for nine (R McKitton 52, Richley 6-37), Market Rasen 2nds 56.

Cleethorpes 2nds travel to Caistor with league safety still uncertain

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 GMT

CLEETHORPES 2nds travel to Caistor tomorrow with their safety in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division still in the balance.

Elsewhere,

South Kelsey host Alkborough, third-from-bottom Horncastle entertain Bracebridge Heath 2nds and champions Messingham play Scunthorpe Town.

Meanwhile, fifth-placed Louth 2nds visit second-placed Alford in division one, while fourth-placed Market Rasen have the chance to use their game in hand to push for promotion at Owmby.

Elsewhere, Broughton host Holton-le-Clay, Hykeham play Scothern, Haxey 2nds travel to Outcasts 2nds, Alkborough 2nds welcome Hartsholme 2nds and leaders Cherry Willingham visit Nettleham 2nds, who must win to avoid the drop.

In division three Stamford Homes, of Grimsby – searching for the victory needed to secure promotion – entertain Washingborough and Immingham Blossom Way host Barton Town 2nds.

Division four will see a derby at Rase Park where Market Rasen 2nds host Caistor Town 3rds.

All Lincs League games tomorrow start half-an-hour earlier – premier division clashes at 12.30pm, with play at 1pm in other sections.

FIXTURES

TOMORROW

PREMIER DIVISION: Caistor Town v Cleethorpes 2nds; Horncastle v Bracebridge Heath 2nds; Messingham v Scunthorpe Town; South Kelsey v Alkborough.

DIVISION ONE: Alford v Louth 2nds; Broughton v Holton-le-Clay; Hykeham v Scothern; Nettleham 2nds v Cherry Willingham.

DIVISION TWO: Alkborough 2nds v Hartsholme 2nds; Outcasts 2nds v Haxey 2nds; Owmby v Market Rasen.

DIVISION THREE: Cherry Willingham 2nds v Keelby; Immingham Blossom Way v Barton Town 2nds; Scunthorpe Town 2nds v Hibaldstow; Stamford Homes v Washingborough.

DIVISION FOUR: Brigg Town v Alford 2nds; Keelby 2nds v Old Lincolnians; Market Rasen 2nds v Caistor Town 3rds.

Title joy for Messingham despite Sahan Wijerathne's fifty

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:00:00 GMT

MESSINGHAM wrapped up the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division title with two games to spare after a 15-run victory at Caistor.

Messingham's Bank Holiday Monday success against their fellow title-chasers came as second-in-the-table Barton Town were defeated at lowly Bracebridge Heath 2nds, who have boosted their survival chances.

Caistor were rocked by a good performance from Messingham skipper Andy Langford who led by example to guide his team to the full 20 points.

Wicketkeeper/batsman Cameron Fletcher's 71 was the highlight of the visitors' modest total of 148 for eight.

But Caistor felt short, dismissed for 133. Sahan Wijerathne made 50 but Messingham skipper Langford grabbed five for 38 in 22 overs.

Having slipped down the table, Cleethorpes 2nds were badly in need of a win at home to bottom-placed Appleby-Frodingham 2nds – and they got it.

Patrick Hughes led the way with 77 in Cleethorpes' all-out 183, as Jack Forrester bagged seven for 38.

The visitors were dismissed for 143, Ben Taylor finishing 80 not out and Owen King taking five for 27.

The victory eased Cleethorpes 2nds' concerns about relegation, which had intensified on Saturday when they lost at Bracebridge.

Bracebridge used up all 50 overs to post 214 for nine, Carl Stubbs hitting 81 and Dave Whapplington 53, as Nathan Judah took five for 61 and Rob Brice three for 60.

The visitors were dismissed for 154 in the 48th over, Patrick Hughes making 32 and Gary Cowlam 24, as Paul Fletcher bagged five for 52 and Stewart Gunthorpe three for 55.

Barton were short of runs when they visited Bracebridge. Their total of 133 included 27 from Simon McInerney and 26 by Gareth Mellors, as Andy McDowall took five for 37 and Paul Fletcher three for 31.

Bracebridge inched home, despite Gary Bell's three for 25. They owed a great deal to a vital late stand between Carl Walton (30 not out) and Tom Cuthbert (26 not out).

An amazingly low-scoring top-flight tussle saw Haxey bowled out for 81 (Lee Brocklebank five for 17) only for Izzy Gunasena to grab six for 12 as Alkborough were shot out for just 40 in reply.

Haxey recovered from being 18 for six, Aaron Moody leading the way with 35 and skipper Mark Atkins hitting a valuable 15.

Dave Elliott's 17 was Alkborough's only double-figure innings after tea.

Caistor won at local rivals South Kelsey in the first of their two bank holiday fixtures, but did not achieve full points.

Kelsey made 159 for seven – a score overtaken by the visitors with only four wickets down.

Overseas players did well with the bat for their respective teams, Chandi Wathukarage making 65 for Kelsey and Wijerathne scoring 69 for Caistor.

Alkborough's batting line-up had another off day at Horncastle, being dismissed for 84 while chasing the home team's all-out 195, in which Pubs Chandrasakara led the way with 65.

Having seen a once big lead pegged back somewhat, Messingham were defeated at Haxey.

Messingham bowled out Haxey for 184 but could muster only 152 in reply – also from 49.5 overs.

Rob Young scored 59 and Ollie Tonks 46 in the Haxey side, with Cameron Fletcher replying with 62 for the visitors. Messingham's top bowlers were Kieran Lindley (five for 57) and Andy Langford (three for 39). Tops for Haxey were Mark Atkins (four for 46) and Jobn Stanser (three for 23).

Scunthorpe Town moved closer to safety with a comfortable home win over Horncastle, Town making 199 for six (Ian Snowden 49) and dismissing the visitors to Heslam Park for 118 (Ramesh Chand five for 26).

Town enjoyed a comfortable four-wicket derby win over already doomed Appleby-Frodingham 2nds.

The Steelmen were dismissed for 98 (John Taylor 36, Ben Brumby 3-26), which did not test Town unduly, Neil Patrick finishing 35 not out.

Teams are reminded that, under a new rule aimed at combating bad light after tea in September, all Lincs League games from now until the end of the season start half-an-hour earlier. Premier division clashes are at 12.30pm and those in all other sections at 1pm.

Kelsey and Meggies boys battle out exciting tie in premier division clash

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

CLEETHORPES 2nds and South Kelsey fought out an exciting tie in the lower reaches of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division.

Both teams scored 187 runs in a rain-affected clash, home side Kelsey being all-out while the visiting Meggies were seven down.

Alkborough climbed two places to third with a 71-run win at Scunthorpe Town.

Leaders Messingham were without a fixture, while the teams beginning the day in second and third spots – Barton Town and Caistor – saw their important clash truncated by rain, taking 10 points apiece.

Conditions were even worse at Horncastle, where bottom side Appleby-Frodingham 2nds had contained their hosts to 41 for three when rain caused the game to be abandoned.

Performance of the day in division one came from third-placed Broughton, who inflicted a 10-wicket defeat on Cleethorpes 3rds.

Also in the relegation zone, Nettleham 2nds were 29 for two in their local derby with Scothern when rain halted proceedings.

Louth 2nds inched to a four-wicket win over Holton-le-Clay, but Hykeham's home game with Outcasts was washed out not long after tea when interestingly poised.

Division two leaders Messingham 2nds had to rely on their last pair to squeeze a one-wicket win against bottom side Outcasts 2nds, while Grimsby Town 2nds moved up to second place following a comfortable eight-wicket victory against Owmby.

Caistor 2nds continued their late push for promotion with a 42-run success against lowly Cleethorpes 4ths, while Haxey 2nds stayed clear of the relegation zone with a five-wicket win at Alkborough 2nds.

In division three, leaders Keelby took 11 points from a rain-affected game at Washingborough.

Meanwhile, second-in-the-table Stamford Homes grabbed a maximum haul from their trip to Barton Town 2nds, as did third-placed Hibaldstow against Immingham Blossom Way.

Cherry Willingham 2nds climbed out of the relegation zone at the expense of Broughton 2nds, whom they skittled out for 55 to win by seven wickets.

However, bottom side Holton-le-Clay 2nds had five points deduced for forfeiting their scheduled game with Scunthorpe Town 2nds.

Rain ensured there was very little change at the top of division four.

Leaders South Kelsey 2nds saw their game with Market Rasen 2nds abandoned early on – and it was the same story when third-placed Alford 2nds hosted fourth-placed Caistor 3rds.

In the only basement section matches played to a finish, Keelby 2nds beat Hykeham 2nds by 40 runs and Morton won by five wickets away to bottom team Brigg Town.

All-rounder Ian Bellamy does it again in Holton-Le-Clay victory

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

HOLTON-LE-CLAY'S Ian Bellamy again demonstrated his all-round talents in a 46-run victory at Scothern in division one of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League.

Fresh from taking a hat-trick in the Grimsby Midweek League's Ibwest Cup final at Cleethorpes, Bellamy, pictured, scored 88 not out and took four for 31 in Saturday's league triumph.

Holton's 180 for four also featured 41 from opener Paul Holmes, as Calum Pearse took two for 35.

Nathan Pearse (27), Peter Wright (35) and Richard Johnson (34) then gave Scothern a decent start, but no one outside the top three could make double-figures as they were dismissed for 134 in the 39th over.

Holton's Danny Portus took three for 28 and Dave Taylor held three catches in the field.

Elsewhere in division one, Nettleham 2nds turned the form book upside down with a four-wicket home win over promotion hopefuls Broughton at Mulsanne Park – lifting themselves off the foot of the table.

Broughton were invited to bat first but only compiled a modest 160 for seven in the permitted 45 overs, opener Neil Simpson scoring 56, Sean Clixby 32 and Paul Reed 23, as Ben Connor took three for 36.

Nettleham's top four made 40 runs between them before being dismissed to leave the game interestingly poised.

However, numbers five and six, Ash Graham and Simon Grocott, made 52 and 50 respectively, as Nettleham went on to record only their third triumph of the season, with six overs in hand.

The wickets claimed by Broughton were shared equally between Paul Clark, Paul Reed and Pete Taylor.

An outstanding display of batting from Andy Lawson and a brilliant run-out by Oliver Coulman saw fourth-placed Outcasts gain what in the end was a comfortable 51-run home victory against bottom side Cleethorpes 3rds, but it wasn't as straight forward as it seems.

Lawson hit 73 from 52 deliveries, including five mighty sixes, just when Outcasts needed an injection to the run rate.

Coulman's direct hit of the stumps when Cleethorpes were looking set to challenge the Outcasts total of 208 all-out also came at the right time and heralded a collapse that eventually saw the Isle of Axholme villagers ease to victory, the Meggies dismissed for 157.

For Cleethorpes, Lewis Markham managed three for 69 and Stuart Harvey three for 49, Ben Marris held three catches and opener Will Abe top scored with 36.

Leaders Cherry Willingham were frustrated by the after-effects of heavy overnight rain, which washed out their scheduled home game with Louth 2nds.

In the premier division, Haxey visited second-placed Barton Town and caused the title-chasers many anxious moments before Town inched home by two wickets.

Barton were helped to their very important win by an excellent all-round performance from acting captain Paul Bell, who has taken over the reins from the sidelined Gareth Mellors in recent weeks.

Put in to bat, Haxey found it difficult to force the pace and built their 168 for nine, in 50 overs, around a watchful 54 from Nic Bisby and useful middle-order efforts by Jon Stanser (22), Isuru Gunasena (20) and Tom Scott (32).

Bell toiled through 25 overs to return the impressive figures of five for 51 – Will Yates and Marc Foster both chipping in with a couple of wickets.

Keeper Ian Andrew played his part with three catches and a stumping, despite being hampered by an injury.

Faced with an impressive spell of seam bowling from Gunasena, Barton made a disastrous start, slumping to 13 for three, which included the loss of usually prolific Aussie opener Simon McInerney for a duck.

However, Town's efforts were revived by a good stand between Chris Kipling (47) and Gary Bell (40).

Paul Bell then contributed a good knock of 53, only to fall victim to a well-judged catch in the deep by Tom Wraith – looking into the setting sun.

Further wickets fell and appeared to have put Haxey back in the driving seat. However, all-rounder Will Yates, batting low down at nine, saw Barton home with a sensible, unbeaten 18.

Gunasena finished with three for 29, but the best Haxey figures came from skipper Mark Atkins, whose 14 overs of miserly off-spin brought him four for 29.

A fine innings and a fine spell of bowling helped ensure leaders Messingham won by six wickets away to Alkborough, who are now fifth.

Alkborough – renowned for their batting prowess, especially at West Halton Lane – were dismissed for 178, John Knapton remaining undefeated on 65, as Andy Langford bagged seven for 69.

Left-hander Ian Dawson then contributed 77 as Messingham moved another step closer to securing the coveted championship pennant to add to their collection at Northfield Road HQ.

Bracebridge Heath 2nds slipped back into the relegation mire after suffering a disappointing defeat at Horncastle, who started the day in third-from-bottom spot.

Horncastle's 239 for eight featured decent contributions from skipper Richard Dixon (54), Nick Paige (48) and Mick Devereux (38).

There were two wickets apiece for Andy McDowall, Paul Fletcher, James Wright and Matthew Knights.

Bracebridge never recovered from being 16 for three, being bowled out for 129 in 39 overs, Andy McDowall scoring 28 and Wright 25.

Pubs Chandrasakara took three for 32, Richard Hickling three for 37 and there were two wickets for experienced all-rounder Devereux, who dismissed both the openers.

Scunthorpe Town lifted themselves out of the bottom two with a tonic home win over South Kelsey.

Town's all-out 184 at Heslam Park included 62 from Ramesh Chand, 44 by Ian Snowden and 24 from Simon Kiddle.

The spinners were in the wickets for Kelsey, captain Lol Waghorn managing three for 27 and Chandi Wathukarage three for 52.

Kelsey's response started badly, got worse and at one stage they were tottering on 20 for six. However, the lower order helped lift the score to 94 before the final wicket fell in the 35th over, Connor Hawkins scoring 25.

Seamer Ben Brumby ran through the top and bottom of the order to finish with a highly impressive five for 17 in nine overs.

Opening partner Chand managed three for 24, while Del Crabb chipped in with three catches behind the stumps.

Messingham 2nds' once very healthy lead at the top of division two is now down to only two points after they suffered an eight-wicket reverse at home to third-placed Grimsby Town 2nds.

Matt Lawson made 46 in the villagers' all-out 131, as Michael Brown bagged five for 16.

Experienced batsmen Andy Hardy and Nigel Fanthorpe then made 44 apiece as Town won comfortably and bagged the maximum 20 points on offer – leaving them just five behind Messingham.

Market Rasen, now a very close second in the table, were expected to win when they visited lowly Haxey 2nds – but the margin was only three wickets and Rasen failed to bag a maximum return.

Haxey's 133 for nine featured 37 from Graham Skelton, as Simon Bunn again bowled impressively, taking five for 54.

Darren Salmon made 40 as Rasen got over the line, despite the efforts of Aaron Moody (four for 29).

Owmby's very poor run continued when they lost at home to fellow strugglers Cleethorpes 4ths, for whom veteran opener Bob Leafe, once of Lincolnshire's Minor Counties side, held the innings together.

His patient 42 was the only effort above 20 in the Meggies' 152 for eight, as two wickets apiece were taken by Joe Atkin, Ian Sheriff, Andy Simpkins and Ciaron Deegan (who also held three catches).

Owmby were pegged back to 124 for nine (Sam Atkin 50 in the middle-order) as Owen King took three for 21 to make early inroads and Sam Would three for 24 at the end of the innings.

A good all-round display by Caistor 2nds was sufficient to secure full points from their home game with Alkborough 2nds, and keep them in the promotion picture.

Alkborough were dismissed for 79 at Brigg Road, opener Neil Gray playing another of his patient knocks before being the eighth man out, having made 25.

Paul Rendell (four for 18) and Paul Jackson (three for 25) did the bulk of the damage, leaving their batsmen with a moderate task.

Only three perished as Caistor won inside 22 overs, opener James Wright finishing 30 not out and Andy Holmes making 21.

Outcasts 2nds – bottom of the table – were involved in another close encounter, only to lose by 11 runs away to mid-table Hartsholme 2nds.

The Lincoln side elected to bat and were dismissed for 165 from the final delivery of the final over, Nick Wilkinson leading the way with 67 and Nick Saunders finishing unbeaten on 35.

Brett Smith bowled well for the visitors, grabbing four for 41.

Outcasts responded with 155 for nine, Charlie Mason top scoring with 31 in the middle-order, as Alastair Damen-Willems returned four for 31 in 14 overs.

Division three leaders Keelby hosted fellow promotion-chasers Hibaldstow and inflicted a six-wicket defeat on the visitors, who came into this match having smashed two records the previous week in a crushing defeat of Cherry Willingham 2nds.

The game of cricket is a great leveller, and Andy Smith's penetrative haul of six for 34 was the main reason for Hibaldstow's batting being brought back down to earth with an all-out 123.

Jerry Thomas made a decent 36 and Jon Taylor 22.

Keelby sensibly took few chances after tea, using up the best part of 33 overs to reach their modest target, Andy Bagnall leading the way with 43.

Josh Cowling took two for 25 for Hibaldstow, who returned home along the A18 with only two bonus points to show from the match.

Having totalled only 28 the previous week, second-from-bottom Cherry Willingham 2nds did better with the bat this week but 98 all-out still saw them lose by three wickets at Immingham Blossom Way, for whom Scott Hilton took five for 24.

Only just clear of the relegation zone, Broughton 2nds suffered a five-wicket reverse at home to mid-table Barton Town 2nds.

Top score in Broughton's 155 for eight was all-rounder Shaun Clark's 54.

Jeremy Evans and Reg Coen helped see Barton to victory but were both injured while batting, sustaining a damaged finger and a cut face respectively, and having to retire hurt.

One game fell foul of the weather, Holton-le-Clay 2nds, the bottom side, being forced to cancel their home clash with Washingborough.

It was billed as the Battle of the Wooden Spoon at Hibaldstow, where Scunthorpe Town 3rds hosted Brigg Town – the only team below them in division four.

But the expected close game did not materialise as Brigg won by the wide margin of 100 runs.

The visitors decided to bat first and must have been wondering about the tactic when experienced openers Gary Smith and Jack Richards both went cheaply.

However, Matthew Bell (78) and Liam McIntyre (64) shared a match-winning third-wicket stand of 145 in an impressive total of 194 for eight.

Scunthorpe batted disappointingly to be bowled out for 94 in the 39th over, with the exception of all-rounder Sami Ahmed who contributed a praiseworthy, unbeaten 62.

There was a notable bowling performance from each side – Scunthorpe's James Fussey taking six for 43 and Brigg's Rich Lancaster five for seven in 10.2 overs.

This was only Brigg's second win of the campaign and they are now only five points behind Town 3rds, with a game in hand. However, both sides have a mountain to climb if they are to pull clear of the re-election zone.

Chris Needham was in fine all-round form for Morton but finished on the losing side at Alford 2nds.

He took four for 30 and then scored an unbeaten 62.

Alford were bowled out for 149, Kev White making 26 and Jordan Dixon 25; the Gainsborough visitors responded with 121 –13 being the next best effort after Needham's half-century.

Experienced all-rounder White added bowling figures for three for 31 to his earlier good work with the bat for Alford, while Mike Honman managed three for 23.

This win moved Alford up to third spot in the table.

Three potentially interesting games involving teams near the top were all bad weather casualties.

Second-placed Old Lincolnians were due to visit Market Rasen 2nds, fourth-ranked Caistor Town 3rds faced a trip to Hykeham 2nds, while leaders South Kelsey 2nds planned to host Keelby 2nds.

In the East Yorks Alliance, Brigg Town 2nds conceded their scheduled away game at Humberside Police in division three, while East Halton were without a fixture in division two.

Barton Town stay in touch at top with victory over Haxey

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

SECOND-placed Barton Town had to be content with a narrow two-wicket triumph at home to Haxey in Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division.

Messingham kept their noses in front in the race for the championship with a fine six-wicket win away to fellow challengers Alkborough, who started the day in fourth spot.

Scunthorpe Town lifted themselves out of the bottom two with a fine 90-run victory at the expense of mid-table South Kelsey.

Horncastle, who began the day just above the danger zone, defeated Bracebridge Heath 2nds by 110 runs, which increases the Lincoln team's concerns.

Division one strugglers Nettleham 2nds recorded a morale-boosting home win over Broughton, who went in search of a good points haul in their efforts to gain promotion.

Unfortunately, leaders Cherry Willingham's scheduled home game with Louth 2nds was a casualty of heavy overnight rain, with no play being possible.

Cleethorpes 3rds' worries over relegation grew with a 51-run reverse at Outcasts, while Holton-le-Clay had a good 46-run win at Scothern.

The important clash at the top of division two between two of the promotion-chasing sides saw Grimsby Town 2nds triumph by eight wickets over Messingham 2nds.

Meanwhile, Market Rasen – also bidding to step up a division next season – secured a narrow three-wicket win at Haxey 2nds.

Going well, Caistor 2nds could yet come up on the rails and notch a promotion spot, having beaten Alkborough 2nds by a comfortable seven wickets.

At the other end of the table, Cleethorpes 4ths won by four wickets at Owmby – another of the lowly-ranked teams – while bottom side Outcasts 2nds lost by only 11 runs to mid-table Hartsholme 2nds.

Division three's top clash saw leaders Keelby beat third-placed Hibaldstow by seven wickets, while Barton Town 2nds won at lowly Broughton 2nds by five wickets.

However, Cherry Willingham 2nds' relegation concerns intensified with a three-wicket reverse at Immingham Blossom Way – one of the teams they are hoping to overtake.

At the foot of division four, Brigg Town won their wooden spoon battle with Scunthorpe Town 3rds by the wide margin of 97 runs.

But the only other game in the basement section not called off due to wet conditions was Alford 2nds' 28-run win over Morton.

Cleethorpes CC's home match against Castleford in the Yorkshire League was called off due to a waterlogged pitch. All games in the Lincolnshire ECB Premier League were also cancelled.

Caistor lose ground in Premier title race after only taking eight points

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

CAISTOR, who started the day in second spot, took only eight points from their Lincolnshire County Cricket League match with Scunthorpe Town.

The premier division showdown had to be abandoned not long after tea, due to rain.

Messingham took full advantage and extended their lead at the top of the league with a 32-run win at South Kelsey, which brought them maximum points.

Barton Town stepped up their challenge for the title with an eight-wicket triumph at home to Horncastle.

Haxey secured a fine seven-wicket victory at Cleethorpes 2nds, and Bracebridge Heath 2nds moved out of the relegation places with a four-wicket win at bottom-placed Appleby-Frodingham 2nds.

Division one leaders Cherry Willingham were struggling with the bat when their game at fellow promotion-chasers Broughton had to be abandoned.

However, Alford stepped up their bid for a return to the top flight with an emphatic eight-wicket win over lowly Nettleham 2nds.

Outcasts chased down a total above 200 to win at home to Holton-le-Clay, while Louth 2nds inched home in a close encounter with Scothern by 11 runs.

Division two's top clash saw leaders Messingham 2nds suffer a 16-run home defeat at the hands of second-placed Market Rasen.

The other promotion clash ended in a 69-run win for Grimsby Town 2nds, who hosted Caistor 2nds.

Bottom side Outcasts 2nds gained a decent points haul from a rain-affected game at Alkborough 2nds.

But Cleethorpes 4ths – the side immediately above Outcasts – lost heavily to Hartsholme 2nds.

Haxey 2nds – just clear of danger at the start of play – won by 29 runs against Owmby.

Division three's busy programme saw promotion hopefuls Hibaldstow move into top gear with a huge 225-run win at lowly Cherry Willingham 2nds, and it was a similar story for fourth-in-the-table Washingborough, who beat Immingham Blossom Way by 186 runs.

Leaders Keelby saw off Barton Town 2nds by five wickets, but second-placed Stamford Homes failed to take maximum points while beating bottom-placed Holton-le-Clay 2nds.

Scunthorpe Town 2nds put a little daylight between themselves and the relegation places with a 76-run win over another of the lowly sides, Broughton 2nds.

Division four has new leaders, South Kelsey 2nds, following their 10-wicket defeat of second-from-bottom Scunthorpe Town 3rds.

Old Lincolnians slip to second place after their game with Alford 2nds was ruined by the rain.

Hykeham 2nds, who began the day in third-from-bottom spot, inched to a two-wicket win over Keelby 2nds in a very low-scoring game.

However, bottom side Brigg Town lost heavily at Market Rasen 2nds.

Lincs County Cricket League's division two top four in action

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

DIVISION two's programme in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League could hardly have been better arranged – the top four all meeting each other.

Dan Wood's Grimsby Town 2nds entertain Dan Healy's Caistor Town 2nds at Augusta Street, while Messingham 2nds have home advantage against Market Rasen.

Alkborough 2nds welcome bottom-placed Outcasts 2nds to West Halton Lane, while lowly Cleethorpes 4ths host mid-table Hartsholme 2nds at the Stamford Homes ground in Grimsby.

There's also an important game for Haxey 2nds – not having the best of campaigns – who visit Todmoor to take on Owmby.

A packed programme tomorrow in the premier division offers some interesting clashes.

In the lower reaches of the table, Appleby-Frodingham 2nds and Bracebridge Heath 2nds meet up for the second time in successive weeks, the venue on this occasion being the Scunthorpe Steelmen's Brumby Hall base.

A win for the Lincoln team will lift them clear of the relegation zone.

Having lost a couple of recent games, Andy Langford's leaders Messingham travel to Lol Waghorn's mid-table South Kelsey, while second-placed Caistor, led by Peter Briggs, host Liam Redmond's Scunthorpe Town, who are third-from-bottom.

Gareth Mellors' Barton Town (third) have home advantage against Horncastle (seventh), as do Mark Atkins' Haxey (fifth), who welcome eight-ranked Cleethorpes 2nds to their village venue with its impressive facilities.

Division one's top clash will be at Broughton, where Matt Spikings' leaders Cherry Willingham pay a visit to a ground with very happy memories for them, having clinched the divisional championship there a few years ago.

Fellow promotion-chasers Alford, who have been racking up the runs this season, host lowly Nettleham 2nds.

Mid-table Louth 2nds entertain Scothern at London Road, while Outcasts welcome Holton-le-Clay to Hirst Priory.

In division three, Stamford Homes look to keep up their championship challenge with a short trip to bottom-placed Holton-le-Clay 2nds.

Meanwhile, Stamford's nearest rivals, leaders Keelby, entertain Barton Town 2nds (fifth).

Playing their first season at this level of the Lincs League, Washingborough have adapted well, and tomorrow they entertain Ron Farmery's Immingham Blossom Way.

Scunthorpe Town 2nds and Broughton 2nds, who meet up at Heslam Park, could both do with a decent points haul to allay concerns about relegation. And the same applies to Cherry Willingham 2nds, who entertain third-placed Hibaldstow.

In division four, the top-ranked trio are all in action – third-placed Caistor 3rds visiting Morton, leaders Old Lincolnians hosting Alford 2nds, and second-in-the-table South Kelsey journeying to Scunthorpe Town 3rds, who play their home games at Hibaldstow.

Keen to keep clear of the re-election zone, Hykeham 2nds entertain Keelby 2nds, while bottom side Brigg Town face a "must win" game at Market Rasen 2nds.

There is only one Sunday match – but it's an important one affecting the lower rankings in division one, Cleethorpes 3rds taking on local rivals Holton-le-Clay at Chichester Road.

TOMORROW

PREMIER DIVISION: Appleby-Frodingham 2nds v Bracebridge Heath 2nds; Barton Town v Horncastle; Caistor Town v Scunthorpe Town; Haxey v Cleethorpes 2nds; South Kelsey v Messingham.

DIVISION ONE: Alford v Nettleham 2nds; Broughton v Cherry Willingham; Louth 2nds v Scothern; Outcasts v Holton-le-Clay.

DIVISION TWO: Alkborough 2nds v Outcasts 2nds; Cleethorpes 4ths v Hartsholme 2nds; Grimsby Town 2nds v Caistor Town 2nds; Messingham 2nds v Market Rasen; Owmby v Haxey 2nds.

DIVISION THREE: Cherry Willingham 2nds v Hibaldstow; Holton-le-Clay 2nds v Stamford Homes; Keelby v Barton Town 2nds; Scunthorpe Town 2nds v Broughton 2nds; Washingborough v Immingham Blossom Way.

DIVISION FOUR: Hykeham 2nds v Keelby 2nds; Market Rasen 2nds v Brigg Town; Morton v Caistor 3rds; Old Lincolnians v Alford 2nds; Scunthorpe Town 3rds v South Kelsey 2nds.

SUNDAY

DIVISION ONE: Cleethorpes 3rds v Holton-le-Clay.

Premier division games start at 1pm. Matches in all other sections get underway at 1.30pm.

Briggs and Boulton help Caistor into George Marshall Trophy final

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

TWO super, high-scoring semi-finals were played out on Sunday in the George Marshall Trophy – the senior knockout competition organised by the Lincolnshire County Cricket League.

Four premier league teams were involved and the batsmen did their level best to entertain the spectators.

Caistor won at home to Barton Town, while Alkborough triumphed on their trip to Bracebridge Heath 2nds.

Caistor totalled 249 for three in their 45 overs, Pete Briggs cracking 84 and Harry Boulton 71 – sharing an opening stand of 131.

In Barton's reply of 241 for seven, Paul Bell managed 55 and Chris Kipling 81.

Meanwhile, Alkborough hit 255 for seven and Bracebridge replied with 241 for seven.

The George Marshall Trophy final between Caistor and Alkborough will be on Sunday, August 29 at Grimsby Town's Augusta Street ground.

The final of the junior knockout, the Bob Welton Cup, will be on Sunday, August 22 at Alkborough's West Halton Lane ground, where Cleethorpes 3rds will meet Messingham 2nds.

With overseas star Sahan Wijerathne in good all-round form, Caistor Town's premier division title challenge was bolstered by a 40-run win at Cleethorpes 2nds.

Caistor's 229 for eight was probably a par score at Chichester Road, Wijerathne making 93, Harry Boulton 40 and Mark Gowshall 32.

Top wicket-takers for the Meggies proved to be captain Paul Sunley (three for 79) and Inderjit Hayre (four for 30).

Clee were given a solid base by openers Nathan Judah and Callum Robinson, who both scored 36.

Patrick Hughes added 64 in the middle-order, but that was as good as it got for the Meggies who were dismissed for 189 in the 46th over.

Tom Boryszscuk proved to be Caistor's top man with the ball, finishing with five for 63, while Wijerathne managed three for 57 – both from 16 overs.

Barton Town, who entertain hopes of gaining promotion to the ECB Premier, enjoyed a decent win at mid-table Haxey.

The villagers were delighted to remove Barton's on-song Aussie opener Simon McInerney for only 12, caught by Jon Stanser, off the bowling of Rob Young.

However, after the entire top order had missed out, Paul Bell (64) and Will Yates 36 not out contributed significantly to a good, late fightback, allowing Town to reach 208 for nine.

Haxey's reply began well, with 41 from opener Tom Wraith, but fell away to 176 for eight.

Young proved Haxey's top man with the ball, managing four for 64, while Barton slow bowler Dean Cressey took the eye with five for 33.

In division one, Holton-le-Clay's home win over near-neighbours Cleethorpes 3rds was an important one for the villagers, who stay above the danger zone – while the Meggies find themselves in deeper trouble.

Invited to bat first on their own Tetney Lane strip, Holton made a decent 193 for four, the highlight being 55 from all-rounder Ian Bellamy – against one of his former teams.

Sam Ford also played his part with an undefeated 39.

The Meggies' bowling was not particularly penetrative, but Stuart Harvey managed one for 61 in 16 tidy overs.

It was totally different when Holton took to the field, however, as they dismissed Cleethorpes for 50, Danny Portus bagging four for 13, Peter Thompson two for six, Ian Hallam two for seven and Bellamy two for 23.

Reports from all divisions on our website at sportgrimsby.co.uk/cricket

Bottom side Nettleham 2nds were beaten by three wickets when Louth 2nds visited Mulsanne Park, but nevertheless collected eight useful bonus points.

Laurence Scott's good season with the bat continued for Louth, the opener hitting 85 in his side's 232 for seven, in which Dean Jacklin scored 56, as Danny Lea took two for 48 in his permitted 12 overs.

Nettleham lost both openers cheaply but mounted a decent reply of 201 for nine, Ash Graham finishing 84 not out, Jack Curtis making 39 and skipper Martin Strawson 32.

Martin's opposite number, Lee Freeman, claimed three for 27 for the visitors, while all-rounder Jacklin capped a good day with a return of three for 38.

Outcasts' Tom Sharpe bowled his heart out for the Isle of Axholme side with career-best figures of seven for 30 as Scothern were dismissed for 105, Jason Whiteley chipping in with three for 20.

But the home side's batting then let them down badly as they were dismissed for 63, Ian McGowan taking five for 25 and Richard Johnson five for 13 for the visitors to Hirst Priory.

In a game which produced few notable innings, James Drabble scored 23 for Scothern and team-mates Nathan Pearse and McGowan 22 apiece.

In division two, an inspired bowling spell helped keep Market Rasen in the hunt for promotion with a comfortable seven-wicket victory at Alkborough 2nds.

It came from seamer Simon Bunn, who sent down 20.3 overs, half of which were maidens, to grab seven for 40 as the home side were dismissed for 121.

Opening partner Dan Norburn supported him well, in two spells, with three for 27.

The pitch offered little or no help to the accurate bowlers, who were assisted by some good Rasen fielding, Andy Richley taking two catches in the slips and keeper Mark Robinson effecting a lightning stumping to end an entertaining late-order 17 from Ollie Kirman, which was the second-best score.

Alkborough's experienced opener, Neil Gray, played the sheet anchor role to compile a very watchful 46, which was the main reason for his team lasting into the 41st over and setting Rasen some sort of target.

The home side desperately needed to make early inroads after tea but failed to do so, Dean Richards (46) and Jon Stephenson (42) compiling an opening stand of 93.

Simon Leak joined the attack as first change bowler and dismissed both openers in fairly quick succession to finish with two for 32.

Then a run-out saw Alkborough add a bowling bonus point to the solitary one gained for batting – but Rasen secured victory in the 31st over without further loss.

Caistor 2nds are having a pretty good summer and secured a five-wicket home win over lowly Outcasts 2nds.

The Isle of Axholme villagers – fresh from their first league win of the season – found the bowling of home skipper Dan Healy too hot to handle.

He took six for 10 in Outcasts' all-out 85 – insufficient as a target at Brigg Road – and later made 24 not out.

Caistor keeper Gareth Johnson managed a catch and three stumpings.

The ever-changing story at the top of the table in division three took another twist as, with leaders Stamford Homes not in action, Keelby won at Scunthorpe Town 2nds to unseat them yet again.

Scunthorpe, who are not having a particularly good campaign, posted a competitive 212 for nine at Heslam Park, Gary Spencer bagging five for 47.

However, despite conceding more runs than they would have liked, Keelby rose to the challenge, winning by seven wickets, Andy Bagnall finishing 79 not out and Sanjay Chauhan making 62.

Broughton 2nds remain in the relegation dogfight after a disappointing derby defeat at the hands of visiting Hibaldstow, who could yet finish in the top two.

Put in to bat, Hibaldstow managed 201 for nine, Jon Taylor scoring 58 and skipper Mark Nicholson 53, as Andy Hillyard bagged four for 22.

But only three batsmen reached double figures as Broughton were dismissed for 57 in 20 overs, Simon Pullan leading the way with five for 20 and Josh Cowling taking two for seven.

Nick Beatty's undefeated 50 in a total of 146 for nine was the highlight of lowly Cherry Willingham 2nds' defeat at Washingborough, who went on to secure an eight-wicket success.

In division four, leaders Old Lincolnians turned in yet another workmanlike display, defeating second-from-bottom visitors Scunthorpe Town 3rds by eight wickets.

The margin was exactly what the form book might have suggested.

Scunthorpe were bowled out for 139, Tim Foster's 37 being the only score of real note, as Luke Jelly managed three for 29, Dan Hill three for 16 and Lincs League secretary Mick Savage three for 28.

Joey Walukiewicz (64 not out) and Dave Hill (39 not out) then compiled an unbeaten partnership of exactly 100 to guide their side home to victory.

It was derby day out in the Wolds – with a vital match at the picturesque former Nettleton Mines ground between promotion-chasing sides South Kelsey 2nds and Caistor 3rds.

Bolstered by a five for 14 return from Connor Hawking, Tony Potter's Kelsey secured a six-wicket win against Ernie Allison's visitors – Caistor's all-out 102 (McKitton 60) proving disappointing.

Bottom side Brigg Town failed with the bat and failed to take any points from their defeat at Keelby 2nds.

Brigg were skittled for 46 in 24 overs, the wickets being shared by Mark Wade (five for 24) and Rich McLellan (five for 17).

Visiting skipper Dyan Hildreth took an early wicket after tea but that was Brigg's solitary success, as Andy Sharp finished 25 not out against one of his former teams.

With inspirational skipper Andy Richley called up for first team duty, Market Rasen 2nds might have been expected to struggle a little in their mid-table match with Morton.

But, inspired by Johnny Purkiss, they stormed to an excellent four-wicket win.

French won the toss and the Rasen attack, led by Purkiss' 5 for 32, never let Morton get away and build the total they would have wanted. Purkiss was backed up by some fine fielding as well as keen bowling at the other end, particularly from Paul Bett (three for 34). With Aaron Wells and George Fussey also turning in searching spells with the leather, Morton were dismissed for 166 in only the 38th over. With 51 overs to chase down the target, Rasen's openers might have been expected to take their time. But George Fussey (30) and Aaron Wells (29) attacked from the off, flaying the ball to all parts of Rase Park, putting on 47 in only eight overs.

The demise of Wells and Shaun French with the score on 68 put the game back in the melting pot, only for Rob Chamberlin (25) and Jonny Purkiss (61 not out) to put on 66 for the fourth wicket to take the game away from Morton.

Purkiss shrugged off the loss of Chamberlin to continue his one-man crusade against the visitors from Gainsborough and led Rasen to a comfortable success.

Alford's ground has proved something of a batsman's paradise this season – but last Saturday proved an exception as the bowlers dominated proceedings.

Having one of their best seasons for some time, Alford 2nds comfortably beat visiting Hykeham 2nds, who remain just clear of the re-election zone.

Alford were bowled out for 138, in which Kev White hit 35 and Richard Smith 23, with Rob Buckley claiming three for 49.

Hykeham were then dismissed for 56, Aaron Wilkinson bagging six for 12 and experienced all-rounder White two for 15.

Caistor see off Cleethorpes 2nd in push for the championship

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

MESSINGHAM'S lead at the top of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division was further eroded when they lost again – this time at home to Alkborough, who began the day in third place.

The other championship hopefuls also won – Barton Town by 32 runs at Haxey and Caistor Town by 40 runs at Cleethorpes 2nds.

The big relegation battle saw Bracebridge Heath 2nds increase their chances of avoiding the drop with a two-wicket home win over bottom side Appleby-Frodingham 2nds.

In division one, leaders Cherry Willingham turned in a poor batting display and lost their unbeaten record at the hands of second-placed Alford.

That was also the case from promotion hopefuls Broughton – defeated by the improving Hykeham.

Despite being dismissed for a poor score, Scothern clawed their way back to secure victory at Outcasts.

But there was no joy for the bottom two – Cleethorpes 3rds losing their derby game with Holton-le-Clay, while Nettleham 2nds were defeated by Louth 2nds.

In division two, Market Rasen stepped up their promotion push with a comfortable seven-wicket triumph at Alkborough 2nds.

Grimsby Town 2nds also stayed on course by beating Owmby, while Caistor 2nds' impressive form continued with a win over bottom side Outcasts 2nds,

In division three, Keelby are real championship contenders after a handy seven-wicket win at Scunthorpe Town 2nds.

Broughton 2nds remain in relegation trouble after losing at home to Hibaldstow, but Cherry Willingham 2nds stay just above the danger zone despite losing at Washingborough.

Division four leaders Old Lincolnians inflicted an eight-wicket defeat on lowly Scunthorpe Town 3rds, while the clash between the second and third-placed sides saw South Kelsey 2nds beat Caistor 3rds by six wickets.

Bottom-placed Brigg lost heavily at Keelby 2nds, while Hykeham 2nds remain clear of the re-election zone even though they were beaten by Alford 2nds.

In a mid-table clash, Market Rasen 2nds turned in a good display to defeat Morton.

PREMIER DIVISION

Appleby-Frodingham 2nds 138, Bracebridge Heath 2nds 141 for eight; Caistor Town 229 for eight (Wijerathne 93), Cleethorpes 2nds 189 (Hughes 64); Barton Town 208 for nine (P Bell 64), Haxey 176 for eight; Messingham 211 for eight (I Dawson 73, Andy Cook 50), Alkborough 214 for six (S Clay 81 not out).

DIVISION ONE

Cherry Willingham 85 (Irving 5-20), Alford 86 for four; Holton-le-Clay 193 for four (Bellamy 55, Portus 51), Cleethorpes 3rds 50; Broughton 44 (Hammond 7-29), Hykeham 47 for three; Louth 2nds 232 for seven (Scott 85, Jacklin 56), Nettleham 2nds 201 for nine (Graham 84 not out); Scothern 105 (Sharp 7-30), Outcasts 63 (Johnson 5-13, McGowan 5-25).

DIVISION TWO

Alkborough 2nds 121 (Bunn 7-40), Market Rasen 123 for three; Outcasts 2nds 85 (Healy 6-10), Caistor Town 2nds 86 for five; Grimsby Town 2nds 233 for five (Waters 91, Fanthorpe 50), Owmby 164 for seven (Deegan 57).

DIVISION THREE

Hibaldstow 201 for nine, Broughton 2nds 56; Scunthorpe Town 2nds 212 for nine (Spencer 5-47), Keelby 213 for three (A Bagnall 79 not out, Chauhan 62).

Cherry Willingham 2nds 146 for nine (Beatty 50 not out), Washingborough 147 for two.

DIVISION FOUR

Alford 2nds 138, Hykeham 2nds 56 (Wilkinson 6-12);

Brigg Town 46 (McLellan 5-17, Wade 5-24), Keelby 2nds 47 for one; Morton 166 (Purkiss 5-32), Market Rasen 2nds 170 for six (Purkiss 61 not out); Scunthorpe Town 3rds 139, Old Lincolnians 140 for two (Walukiewicz 64 not out); Caistor Town 3rds 102 (McKitton 60, Hawking 5-14), South Kelsey 2nds 105 for four.

Caistor Town ready for Cleethorpes showdown tomorrow

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

THERE are important games for spectators to savour across the county in the Lincolnshire Cricket League premier division tomorrow.

The top clash comes at Chichester Road, where Paul Sunley's Cleethorpes 2nds host Peter Briggs' Caistor Town, with high scores expected.

In the county capital, Stuart Fraser-Cattanach's Bracebridge Heath 2nds – battling to clear the relegation places – have a vital home game against Appleby-Frodingham 2nds, who have been at the foot of the table for some time but won their first game last weekend.

In the Scunthorpe area, leaders Messingham host old rivals Alkborough, who are third. Andy Langford's top team will certainly not be underestimating the batting power of Steve Clay's visitors to Northfield Road.

Out in the Isle of Axholme, Mark Atkins' mid-table Haxey entertain Gareth Mellors' Barton Town, who are now back in second spot.

Division one's main encounter will be leaders Cherry Willingham's home tie with second-placed Alford. Spin bowlers might have a part to play in this one on both sides.

Broughton – also with promotion aspirations – visit Mark Conyers' Hykeham, who have shown some improved form of late after a poor start.

In the lower reaches of the table, Holton-le-Clay's home clash with Cleethorpes 3rds is very much a local derby, with the respective line-ups well aware of each other's strengths.

Bottom-placed Nettleham 2nds would be glad of a good points haul from their game with Louth 2nds at Mulsanne Park, but Lee Freeman's visitors will have other ideas.

Mid-table Outcasts remain as inconsistent as ever, making it difficult to predict the outcome of their home clash with Scothern at Hirst Priory.

Division two promotion-chasers Grimsby Town 2nds – led by Danny Wood – journey to the picturesque Todmoor ground at Owmby, keen to step up their challenge for a return to the second tier of Lincs League cricket with a good performance against Kev Bowring's mid-table villagers.

Hoping Town slip up will be second-placed Market Rasen, seeking to step up their own promotion bid during a trip to West Halton Lane to take on Alkborough 2nds.

Not much has gone right in the league for Ian Fletcher's side. Having won their first league match, Outcasts 2nds visit Caistor Town 2nds.

Division three's most important fixture could well be in Grimsby – the clash between promotion-chasing Stamford Homes and Immingham Blossom Way.

However, there's also real significance to second-placed Keelby's visit to Scunthorpe Town 2nds and in Hibaldstow's short trip to Broughton 2nds.

There's also a Lincoln area local derby to enjoy with Washingborough hosting Cherry Willingham 2nds.

Barton Town 2nds – enjoying another successful campaign despite having several changes in captain – welcome bottom side Holton-le-Clay 2nds to Marsh Lane.

Division four's game of the day will help decide which team eventually lifts the coveted championship pennant in September.

Tony Potter's second-in-the-table South Kelsey 2nds have home advantage against Ernie Allison's third-placed Caistor Town 3rds.

Meanwhile, leaders Old Lincolnians host lowly Scunthorpe Town 3rds.

Market Rasen 2nds and Morton, who meet up at Rase Park, look closely matched sides on paper.

Keelby 2nds, in the lower half of the table, will be keen not to slip up at home to bottom side Brigg Town.

Alford 2nds – having a decent season – entertain Hykeham 2nds.

Sunday sees the semi-finals of the Lincolnshire League's senior knockout competition – all the remaining sides hailing from the premier division.

If league form is anything to go by, Caistor might be expected to win through in their home tie with Barton Town.

But although Bracebridge Heath 2nds' are below Alkborough in the league, they do enjoy the benefit of hosting the tie.

Stamford Homes leap over Keelby to reach top of division three

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

STAMFORD Homes returned to the top of the division three table with a quick seven-wicket win at Cherry Willingham 2nds on Sunday in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League.

It took the visitors fewer than 30 overs to dismiss Cherry for 61, extras comfortably top scoring with 20.

Experienced seamer Mick Barton had a memorable analysis, even by his standards, with four wickets for eight runs in 13 overs. Fine support came from Mick Hanson, with three for 21.

The home side managed an early breakthrough but all-rounder Hanson saw his side through to another maximum 20-point return with an unbeaten 23.

Keelby briefly went top on Saturday after beating bottom side Holton-le-Clay 2nds.

Keelby were dismissed for a modest 144, but Gary Spencer's top form with the ball continued when he took six for 47 to help bowl out Holton for 116.

Keen to retain their division three status, Immingham Blossom Way won by 28 runs at Broughton 2nds, who slip into trouble.

Immingham's greater experience in key areas was perhaps the difference between the sides.

Invited to bat first, Blossom Way were give a fine start by Ady Scrimshaw, with 24, and anchor man Paul Farmery, who made 53. There was also a decent knock of 39 not out in the middle-order from Graham Clarke in the visitors' par score of 178 for nine.

Broughton's most penetrative bowlers proved to be Andy Hillyard (four for 60) and Stuart White (three for 22).

Their reply featured a typically quickfire 22 from their own veteran, Phil Glentworth. And while attacking all-rounder Shaun Clark was at the crease, Broughton were well up with the required run rate – despite continuing to lose wickets.

However, with Clark seemingly taking the game out of his side's hands, Immingham skipper Ron Farmery summoned his most experienced seamer, Dennis Parker, from patrolling the fine leg boundary to join the attack.

And it did not take the wily "silver fox" long to deceive Clark, on 49, and trap him leg-before.

That was the turning point and milkman Dennis proved to be la crème de la crème for the visitors, helping to polish off the tail and finishing with three for 38 as Dave Jones' Broughton fell short on 150, despite a brave attempt.

However, the younger members of the Blossom Way attack played their part, Scott Hilton making inroads at the top of the order with three for 44 and left-armer Danny Khan taking two for 20 in 10.1 tight overs.

It was a fine advert for division three cricket – played in very good spirit between sides determined to enjoy their match in ideal sunny conditions.

All 22 listed on the team card batted and 12 turned their arms over, typifying cricket at this level, with players' ages ranging from the mid-teens to 60-plus.

The form book was well and truly ripped up in the division two match between bottom club Outcasts 2nd and second in the table Grimsby Town 2nd. The hosts pulled off a narrow nine-run victory, their first of the season.

With Market Rasen winning, Grimsby vacated their promotion slot and handed the initiative to their near neighbours.

Having won the toss, Outcasts elected to bat but were soon reduced to 23 for three after 10 overs. David White and Dan Wood kept wicket keeper Tom Lehman busy as he claimed three catches behind the stumps.

However, after the fourth wicket fell to White, the home side's middle order dropped anchor and ground out a total. David Hobson (42), Anthony Fitzgerald (43) and Ian Fletcher (32) made Town work hard for any breakthrough and saw their side to 165 for seven at tea.

White's marathon spell in humid conditions saw him return three for 37, from 18 overs. He was supported by Wood, who took two for 36.

With Grimsby's regular openers promoted to first-team duties, Richard Taylor and Andy Grainger opened up. Taylor departed early but when Andy Hardy joined Grainger, boundaries began to flow.

Grimsby appeared to be making comfortable progress until Hardy attempted one pull shot too many having got to 27.

The introduction of former Grimsby Town player Simon Lewis proved the turning point as his figures of four for 46 from 15 overs kept runs tight and wickets falling.

Skipper Wood (41) did his best to see his team home and a cavalier 29 not out from man-of-the-match White deserved better support.

Fitzgerald claimed three for 19 as Town's batsmen repeated the mistakes of early season.

Six unnecessary catches were offered up to a committed Outcasts fielding display and White looked crestfallen as he ran out of partners and Grimsby were bowled out for 156 with an over of the match remaining.

Second-placed Market Rasen produced another fine bowling display, this time to win by nine wickets against lowly Cleethorpes 4ths.

The Meggies were dismissed for 93 in 33 overs – John Mansfield scoring 33 – as Simon Bunn claimed four for 27 and Karl Bierlein three for 20.

John Stephenson then cracked 73 at the top of the order for Rasen being departing in unusual fashion – hit wicket.

Caistor 2nds' good form continued with a five-wicket triumph at Hartsholme 2nds.

Features of the Lincoln team's 192 for seven were 58 from Nick Wilkinson and 61 not out from Adrian Bunn.

Caistor's successful run-chase included 85 by Kev Parker and 68 from captain Dan Healy. They shared a super third-wicket partnership of 131 – a real match-winner.

In the bowling ranks, Caistor's Ryan Farrow managed four for 32 and Hartsholme's Dave Smith three for 50.

Bottom side Appleby-Frodingham 2nds finally broke their duck in the premier division, tasting victory for the first time in the top-flight this summer during the home game with Cleethorpes 2nds on Sunday.

The visiting Meggies were dismissed for 162, Rob Griffin scoring 35, as Jack Dixon took three for 22.

After tea, the Scunthorpe Steelmen suffered a couple of early losses and although Mick Bramley managed 44, three more wickets went down with three-figures still some way off on the Brumby Hall scoreboard.

However, Rob Day (72 not out) was joined by all-rounder Dixon (21 not out) and they pieced together a good sixth-wicket partnership to see the Steelmen home by five wickets with 16 overs to spare.

Nathan Judder, with three for 34, was Cleethorpes' most successful man with the ball.

Australian Simon McInerney again demonstrated what a shrewd signing he has proved for Barton Town, whose nine-wicket win over lowly Bracebridge Heath 2nds lifted Town into second place.

Bracebridge just managed full batting bonus points, being dismissed for 200 of which opener Ryan Watson scored 41 and skipper Stuart Fraser-Cattanach 34.

McInerney proved Barton's most successful bowler with four for 31. Then he got to work with the bat, scoring an undefeated 130, off 91 balls.

Simon and Lewis Barnes added 179 from 161 deliveries faced for the first wicket, the junior partner making 36.

Horncastle only hold down seventh spot, despite turning in a super home performance to inflict defeat on leaders Messingham.

A good opening stand between Harry Smith (97) and Nick Paige (38) gave Horncastle a good base, Phil Roberts adding 45 in the middle-order in an impressive total of 255 for seven.

Messingham openers Andy Cook and Ian Dawson both reached the 20s but Cameron Fletcher's 44 was as good as it got for the leaders in a disappointing reply of 162 for eight.

Clearly it was not a great day for bowlers. However, Kieran Lindley managed four for 74 in the visiting attack, with Horncastle's Pubs Chandrasekara taking two for 25.

South Kelsey (fifth) lost by eight wickets at home to Haxey (sixth) in a match which saw a very unfortunate injury.

Halfway through Kelsey's innings of 164 all-out, top scorer Attiq Ullah (61) hit a full-blooded shot to square leg which hit umpire Sally Newton on the kneecap.

A stoppage in play of about 30 minutes occurred while Kelsey keeper Steve Wright administered first-aid and team-mate Shaun Kirwin carried Sally off the field. Unfortunately, she could take no further part in the match, Kelsey secretary Mike Owen standing in at square leg.

Haxey had no real difficulty reaching their modest target, opener Ollie Tonks hitting 96 and Tom Wraith 42 not out.

Skipper Mark Atkins led by example in the Haxey attack, grabbing five for 28 in less than eight overs.

Kelsey never recovered after losing both openers for ducks.

Alford stay second – and in line for a return to the top flight – after an important eight-wicket home win over third-in-the-table Broughton in division one.

Broughton's 202 for six, in the permitted 45 overs, was insufficient, given the sort of totals Alford have been rattling up this season. And so it proved.

Broughton's top scorers were openers Neil Simpson and Matt Hammond, with 60 and 57 respectively, as Darrell Crow bagged four for 54.

Veteran Neil Calvert (58 not out) and skipper Andrew White (54) were the mainstays for the home team.

It was a real family affair as Outcasts got back to winning ways with a four-wicket victory at Louth 2nds' impressive London Road HQ.

Invited to bat first, Louth made 201 for seven, with 59 from Laurence Scott and 54 from Zeesham Ahmed, as Liam McAnaney took three for 33.

The Priorymen then eased to 203 for six, thanks largely to skipper Mark Coulman, who hit 70, and his son Oliver, who made 53.

That win earned Outcasts 18 points and ended a three-match losing streak.

The eighth man to try his luck, Zain Siddiqui, proved Louth's most effective bowler with two for 12.

There was a memorable Lincolnshire League debut by Scothern's Dasuin Mabogodage, who took five for 21 in a home victory which moves the villagers up to fifth but leaves Cleethorpes 3rds with concerns about possible relegation.

Clee's all-out 87 included 22 extras and 20 from Callum Robinson.

Peter Wright (48no) saw Scothern home to a full points haul, while Mabogodage opened and scored 22 before being dismissed by Lewis Markham.

Leaders Old Lincolnians made no mistake when securing maximum points from their visit to bottom-placed Brigg Town in division four

Caistor 3rds remain in the chase for promotion after an eight-wicket derby victory over Market Rasen 2nds.

Rasen were dismissed for 105, as the evergreen Ernie Allison bagged four for 12. Andy Pearson then stroked an unbeaten 45 for Caistor.

Keelby 2nds enjoyed a decent home victory over Alford 2nds.

Keelby's 199 for eight featured 46 from Jim Cowie and 46 not out by Mike Phillips, as Kev White took three for 48.

White opened and made 44 for Alford but they fell foul of veteran spinner Udi Sheikh, who finished with five for 27 as they were dismissed for 139.

South Kelsey 2nds are second in the table following a six-wicket defeat of Morton, bowling out the Gainsborough side for 142 (Barry Potter five for 49) and being helped over the line by Dave Everatt's undefeated 54.

In the Bob Welton Cup semi-finals, Messingham 2nds eased through to the final by four wickets when they hosted Outcasts 2nds, also from division two.

Outcasts made a decent 226 for nine, extras contributing a huge 53 – six more than leading batsman Dave Hobson.

Despite a fine bowling display by Outcasts' Alex Fletcher (five for 40), Messingham were not to be denied.

Adam Cook, who is in a rich vein of form, hit an undefeated 109 and opening partner Tom Johnson 43.

Cleethorpes 3rds (division one) saw off Haxey 2nds (division two) by three wickets.

The villagers' 154 for nine featured 46 by Graham Skelton as Fred Lumby took three for 26.

Paul Hewstone's 37 was then an important factor as the Meggies booked their place in the final on Sunday, August 22 at West Halton Lane, Alkborough.

Keelby have their sights set on taking over at top of division three

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

KEELBY have their sights on top spot in division three of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League tomorrow.

The villagers are hoping to use home advantage see off lowly Holton-le-Clay 2nds and at the same time displace Grimsby side Stamford Homes as leaders.

Hibaldstow – also in the promotion-chasing pack – host mid-ranked Washingborough.

Broughton 2nds entertain Immingham Blossom Way – both teams being in the lower half of the table – while Heslam Park is the venue for a clash between the second strings of Scunthorpe Town and Barton Town.

Messingham will be looking to extend their healthy lead at the top of the premier division when they journey south to Horncastle.

Peter Briggs' second-placed Caistor Town are without a fixture, giving Andy Langford's Messingham the opportunity to put further distance between themselves and their nearest challengers in the race to land the coveted championship pennant.

Much of tomorrow's programme is centred on the very north of the county.

Mid-table Alkborough host bottom side Appleby-Frodingham 2nds at West Halton Lane.

And – a short drive away – fourth-in-the-table Barton Town take on Stuart Fraser-Cattanach's Bracebridge Heath 2nds at Marsh Lane, the Lincoln lads still being in the relegation zone.

Meanwhile, Lol Waghorn's third-placed South Kelsey host Mark Atkins' Haxey (eighth).

Division one sees two needle matches.

On a ground where bags of runs have been scored this season, Alford host fellow promotion-chasers Broughton, while leaders Cherry Willingham have a home derby against Hykeham, who won so well last Saturday.

Louth 2nds have a mid-table battle with Outcasts at London Road, and there's a game of real importance to the lower half of the table when Scothern meet Cleethorpes 3rds.

A packed programme in division two has some cracking encounters in prospect.

Leaders Messingham 2nds have home advantage against mid-table Owmby, while second-placed Grimsby Town 2nds journey to Hirst Priory to take on bottom side Outcasts 2nds.

Third-in-the-table Market Rasen will be keen to step up their promotion bid during a visit to lowly Cleethorpes 4ths.

Some good cricket is expected to be played at Ashby Avenue, Lincoln, where Ash Boothright's mid-table Hartsholme 2nds entertain Dan Healy's fourth-placed Caistor Town 2nds.

The same goes for Haxey 2nds' home tussle with Alkborough 2nds, which will have a big say in how things map out in the lower half of the table.

Down in division four, Ernie Allison's title-chasing Caistor 3rds have a home derby against Andy Richley's mid-table Market Rasen 2nds.

Also with an eye firmly on the championship, Tony Potter's South Kelsey 2nds visit Morton.

Some of the sides in, or near, the re-election zone know they need to start picking up points – particularly at home.

None more so than bottom-placed Brigg Town, who tomorrow host leaders Old Lincolnians.

Steve Roe's Hykeham 2nds can ease their concerns with victory tomorrow against second-from-bottom Scunthorpe Town 3rds, as can Jeremy Slater's Keelby 2nds if they can do likewise against Alford 2nds.

Sunday sees the semi-finals of the Lincolnshire League's secondary knockout competition – the Bob Welton Cup.

Two teams from the Isle of Axholme have made it this far, despite not enjoying the best of seasons when playing for league points.

Haxey 2nds (division two) host Cleethorpes 3rds (division one), while Outcasts 2nds visit fellow division two team Messingham 2nds.

There's a solitary league match on Sunday, in division three, with Cherry Willingham 2nds entertaining Stamford Homes.

Premier division games start at 1pm. Matches in all other sections, plus cup-ties, start at 1.30pm.

FIXTURES

TOMORROW

PREMIER DIVISION: Alkborough v Appleby-Frodingham 2nds Barton Town v Bracebridge Heath 2nds Horncastle v Messingham South Kelsey v Haxey.

DIVISION ONE: Alford v Broughton Cherry Willingham v Hykeham Louth 2nds v Outcasts Scothern v Cleethorpes 3rds.

DIVISION TWO: Cleethorpes 4ths v Market Rasen; Hartsholme 2nds v Caistor Town 2nds; Haxey 2nds v Alkborough 2nds; Messingham 2nds v Owmby; Outcasts 2nds v Grimsby Town 2nds.

DIVISION THREE: Broughton 2nds v Immingham Blossom Way; Hibaldstow v Washingborough; Holton-le-Clay 2nds v Keelby; Scunthorpe Town 2nds v Barton Town 2nds.

DIVISION FOUR: Brigg Town v Old Lincolnians; Caistor 3rds v Market Rasen 2nds; Hykeham 2nds v Scunthorpe Town 3rds; Keelby 2nds v Alford 2nds; Morton v South Kelsey 2nds.

SUNDAY

BOB WELTON CUP SEMI-FINALS: Haxey 2nds v Cleethorpes 3rds; Messingham 2nds v Outcasts 2nds.

DIVISION THREE: Cherry Willingham 2nds v Stamford Homes.

Caistor Town turn the tables with superb Trophy win over Messingham

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

THE top-ranked teams in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division went head-to-head on Sunday, the prize being a coveted place in the semi-finals of the George Marshall Trophy – the senior knockout competition.

But Caistor Town, who are second to Messingham in the standings, turned the tables in the cup to triumph by 47 runs and leave Andy Langford's side to concentrate on the league.

Harry Boulton led the way with 49 in Caistor's 203 for eight, while Ian Dawson scored 50 not out as the visitors replied with 156 for nine.

Barton Town's in-form Australian overseas player, Simon McInerney, cracked a century to help steer the premier leaguers through.

Home side Louth 2nds, from division one, did well to total 200 for four when they hosted Sunday's tie, Zane Siddiqui making 62 not out and Paul Bell taking four for 37.

But Town paced their innings well – McInerney scoring 108 and Elliot Sampson 47 – to secure a six-wicket victory in the penultimate over of the scheduled 45.

Bracebridge Heath 2nds entertained Cleethorpes 2nds in an all premier division clash and won by two wickets. Paul Sunley hit 54 in Cleethorpes' 187 for nine, with Dave Whapplington cracking 44 in Bracebridge's successful response.

Horncastle were unable to raise a team to travel to Alkborough, Steve Clay's villagers progressing through to the semis on a walkover. A number of Horncastle's Saturday regulars play elsewhere on Sundays.

In the premier division, a high-scoring game was forecast at Chichester Road between Cleethorpes 2nds and Scunthorpe Town. And the Telegraph's match preview proved to be spot on with plenty of runs for the spectators to savour on Saturday.

The Meggies posted 246 for seven in their 50 overs but that proved no great test for Town, who had seven wickets in hand and a full two overs to spare when securing victory.

Opener James Osmond led the Cleethorpes run-charge with 133 – the next best effort being Rob Griffin's 31 in the middle-order.

Scunthorpe's innings was similar in as much as opener Simon Kiddle made 100. But the difference was a second, telling contribution – Ian Snowden's undefeated 74.

Not a great day to be beside the seaside if you were a bowler. However, the deceptive Pop Robson (three for 48) was again among the wickets for Town, being assisted by Carl McGregor (three for 71).

For the Meggies, skipper Sunley made up for missing out with the bat, taking two for 29 in eight tidy overs. Perhaps he now wishes he'd elevated himself beyond sixth choice in the pecking order.

A captain's innings by Stuart Fraser-Cattanach and penetrative bowling by Ross Carnelley brought Bracebridge Heath 2nds a very welcome win at Haxey.

The villagers were bowled out for 213 in exactly 50 overs – perhaps a shade disappointing after openers Ollie Tonks and Simon Wild had made 75 and 40 respectively.

Carnelley did the bulk of the damage with six for 52 from only 13 overs – an impressive strike-rate.

The Lincoln lads lost both openers cheaply but turned things round with a good stand between Fraser-Cattanach (70) and Carl Stubbs (35). Tom Monson and David Whapplington chipped in with handy scores in the 20s and Bracebridge had three balls and three wickets in hand when they inched over the line.

Haxey gave long bowls to their openers, Rob Young finishing with two for 57 and Isuru Gunasena with two for 54.

Rain didn't prove much of a hindrance to the Lincolnshire League on Saturday – despite some heavy showers being forecast for the afternoon. But the exception came at Alkborough – that northern outpost of the competition – where the local derby against Barton Town could not be fully completed.

There was time for Barton to complete their innings of 197 for seven, but only 35 of Alkborough's 50 overs were possible, resulting in points-sharing of 11 for the home side and 12 for the visitors. The game's top score was 75 from Alkborough's Craig Ross.

Barton's top scorer was 15-year-old Lewis Barnes, with 59 - his maiden 50, opening the batting. And he had to start his innings four times as there was three rain breaks.

Third-placed South Kelsey won comfortably when visiting Appleby-Frodingham 2nds, who prop up the table without a win in 12 outings. Highlight of Kelsey's 246 for six was 93 from opener Chandi Wathukarage, with Jack Dixon taking two for 61. An opening stand of 88 between Paul Taylor (50) and Vince Grimes (42) gave the Scunthorpe Steelmen something on which to build, and they managed a creditable 200 for nine, to take the maximum five batting bonus points on offer. Lol Waghorn, the off-spinner, finished with four for 61 as Kelsey returned home with 19 points - just one short of the maximum.

Second-placed Caistor Town visited Horncastle, bowled out the home side for 125 and secured a nine-wicket win and maximum points.

Inspired by a super century from the experienced Mark Conyers, Hykeham hauled themselves out of the division one relegation zone with a tonic seven-wicket triumph at Outcasts.

These were 20 points earned the hard way – conceding a big total but bowling out their opponents and then romping home.

Outcasts were invited to bat and made 233 all-out, Darren Clark top scoring with 64, Andy Torr making 58 and Peter "Spud" Tait 43, as nippy left-arm seamer Richard Chester took five for 58 in two spells totalling 15 overs.

The Isle of Axholme side surrendered late wickets and their total proved insufficient as Hykeham replied with 235 for three, in 43 of the permitted 45 overs, to gain a tremendous, morale-boosting victory.

Having earlier held three catches in the field, opener Conyers stroked a sublime 105 (12 fours, two sixes) and Josh Taylor a hard-hit 63 to guide their side home, despite some decent bowling from Tom Sharpe (two for 68 in 14 overs).

Runaway leaders Cherry Willingham are the only team in the entire Lincolnshire League with an unbeaten record, but the margin of their tenth win was a relatively narrow 30 runs when they visited Louth 2nds.

James Drabble's unbeaten 72 dominated Cherry's moderate 151 for seven, as Lee Freeman took three for 30.

But the Cherry bowling was well up to the mark, Will Carter collecting three for 34 and spinners Graham Priestley and Matt Spikings four for 27 and three for 19 respectively.

Second-in-the-table Alford's inability to dismiss lowly Cleethorpes 3rds (120 for seven) cost them points although they won by six wickets.

Seeking to steer clear of relegation, Scothern improved their situation considerably by bowling out Holton-le-Clay for 118 and winning by three wickets, Joe Drabble scoring 70.

Nettleham 2nds prop up the table after failing to raise a side to visit promotion hopefuls Broughton. This resulted in the immediate deduction of five points, in accordance with league rules, Broughton being awarded 15 on the same basis.

Martin Strawson's Mulsanne Park men had to send some regular personnel to assist their first team, while younger squad members were away on a school tour.

Having tasted defeat for the first time this season the previous week, division two leaders Messingham 2nds bounced back with a very convincing home win over lowly Haxey 2nds.

Messingham's 225 for six featured 55 at the top of the order by Adam Cook, 46 by Tom Johnson and 41 not out from Rob Talbot, as Paul Bradley took four for 59.

That was not a huge total on Northfield Road but the Isle of Axholme visitors could muster only 45, in 24.4 overs, Aaron Moody's middle-order 14 being the only real resistance.

Sheldon Sekul proved their destroyer-in-chief, with five for 15, Danny Rands and Shaun Dalton taking two cheap wickets apiece.

Market Rasen can still entertain hopes of going up, especially if they can repeat Saturday's form. They not only recorded the day's quickest victory but the best individual bowling figures. It all added up to a very disappointing day for Owmby, who failed to take a point from this all-West Lindsey clash, being bowled out for 42 (Karl Bierlein 7-17).

James Wright's 55 was a factor in Caistor 2nds' seven wicket defeat of Cleethorpes 4ths, who were contained to 127 for seven, which proved insufficient to test Dan Healy's men.

Keelby's proud unbeaten record came to an end with defeat at Hibaldstow, which also cost them top spot in division three.

Hibaldstow – under the captaincy of Mark Nicholson – have come up on the rails and are mounting their own bid for promotion.

Keelby were said to be a little under-strength and their all-out 170 – from the final delivery of the innings - was passable but not too daunting. Sanjay Chauhan led the way with an unbeaten 59 and Matt Bevis managed 23, as Mel Oades took three for 30 and Simon Pullan three for 40.

All-rounder Pullan then went on to prove a further thorn in Keelby's side with 51 as the home side won by two wickets with three balls to spare, Nicholson adding 37, which included some "monster hits" and Jon Taylor 30.

For the visitors, Paul Fytche bagged three for 45 and Andy Smith three for 53.

Barton Town 2nds remain within striking distance of the promotion places following a home win over Broughton 2nds.

Barton's 162 for six included 42 from acting skipper Jeremy Evans and 34 from Joe Brunwin, as Jake Parker took three for 23 and Phil Glentworth two for 36.

Broughton were dismissed for 145, of which Dave Jones contributed 58, as Dean Cressey bagged four for 26.

Mid-table Washingborough were bowled out for 156 but beat bottom side Holton-le-Clay 2nds, who responded with 118.

Some polished batting was on display in the Cherry-Blossom clash!

Matt Carter cracked 89 in Cherry Willingham 2nds' 171 for four, with Anthony George stroking 101 for Immingham Blossom Way in their all-out 155, with Jamie Burnett grabbing four for 70 from 22 overs.

This win considerably eased Cherry's concerns in the lower half of the table.

An equally important game brought another invitation to the cricket headline-writers, with Palli taking five for 12 and top scoring with 35 as Stamford Homes (Grimsby) went to the top of the table by beating Scunthorpe Town 2nds.

Did Scunthorpe get too Palli with the visiting all-rounder?

The Heslam Park men were dismissed for 111, Stamford going on to win by three wickets, despite good bowling by Jon Jacklin (five for 44).

It's proving quite a season for the amiable Andy Richley, captain of Market Rasen 2nds, whose side's win at division four bottom team Brigg Town means they are now looking safe from having to seek re-election.

That's quite a turnaround after finishing in the bottom two in 2009 and having an anxious wait at the league's annual meeting to see whether they would gain sufficient votes to enjoy another season in the county competition.

Saturday saw a good all-round performance from Andy, who top scored with 74 in Rasen's 205 for seven at the Recreation Ground, and then took four for 28 as the home team were dismissed for 80, Paul Bett managing five for 19 on his Lincs League debut.

If Old Lincolnians do manage promotion this season - after missing out narrowly in the past - they may reflect on Saturday's derby win at Hykeham 2nds. For they won by the narrowest of margins - just one wicket – to go top of the table.

Hykeham's 166 for nine included 55 from Alan Ashton and 27 by Lee Buick, as Dan Hill took five for 34.

They would have won, had it not been for Matt Jelly - Old Lincs' number three - who batted through most of the innings for a decisive 64 not out, being joined by last man Tim Phipps to see their side through to victory and 17 valuable points.

Keelby 2nds are seventh but remain comfortably clear of trouble, having won their home game with mid-table Morton.

Keelby openers Andy Sharp (39) and Bruce Roberts (24) shared a half-century stand, which was built on by Ian Johnson (64 not out) and Alan Travis (28) in a decent score of 205 for seven.

Morton responded with 178, Matthew Gleadell scoring 44, Peter Blogg 41 and Simon Turner 29, as veteran Udi Sheikh returned the game's best analysis of four for 50, supported by Mark Wade (three for 31).

There was a good bowling performance by Mark Leverett, for Hykeham, who took four for 53.

In the East Yorks Alliance, Brigg Town 2nds were bowled out for 131 at Patrington 3rds, who went on to win by five wickets in a division three clash.

And finally, teams wishing to apply for membership of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League should note July 31 is the deadline.

The league – founded in 1963 - currently has 51 teams, playing in five divisions. All member clubs must be based within Lincolnshire.

Further information is available from general secretary Mike Savage, to whom applications must be sent – either by post or email. His address is 64 Scorer Street, Lincoln, LN5 7XE. E-mail mikesavage199@btinternet.com

Caistor Town close the gap at the Premier League summit

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

WITH leaders Messingham not in action, second-placed Caistor Town closed the gap in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division.

They earned a nine-wicket triumph at Horncastle.

Scunthorpe Town impressively chased down Cleethorpes 2nds' 246 to win by three wickets at Chichester Road – and South Kelsey posted the same total to defeat Appleby-Frodingham 2nds by 46 runs at Brumby Hall.

There was a tonic three-wicket away win for Bracebridge Heath 2nds at the expense of Haxey, while rain meant a truncated, north-of-the-county derby between Alkborough and Barton Town, honours being fairly even at West Halton Lane.

Division one championship hopefuls Cherry Willingham eased home by 30 runs over Louth 2nds. And although promotion-chasing Alford beat Cleethorpes 3rds they had to be content with 14 points, rather than the full 20.

At the other end of the table, Hykeham took the eye by cracking 235 to win by seven wickets at Outcasts, while Scothern eased their relegation concerns with a handy three-wicket defeat of Holton-le-Clay.

In Division two, Market Rasen skittled Owmby for the day's lowest total, 42, to secure a rapid win, and Caistor Town 2nds' improved form continued with a seven-wicket defeat of Cleethorpes 4ths.

Division three title-chasers Keelby lost their unbeaten record when suffering a two-wicket reverse at Hibaldstow, while close rivals Stamford Homes (Grimsby) took full advantage with maximum points from a three-wicket win at Scunthorpe Town 2nds.

Still in the leading group, Barton Town 2nds enjoyed a four-wicket home victory over Broughton 2nds, while Cherry Willingham 2nds improved their chances of avoiding the drop, beating Immingham Blossom Way by 16 runs.

Holton-le-Clay 2nds remain at the bottom following a 38-run reverse at the hands of Washingborough.

Division four promotion-chasers South Kelsey 2nds suffered a surprise 14-run defeat at home to lowly Scunthorpe Town 3rds, while rivals Old Lincolnians had to work hard for a very narrow success against Hykeham 2nds.

Market Rasen 2nds' steady improvement continued with a 125-run win over bottom-placed Brigg Town, while Keelby 2nds secured a welcome 27-run success against Morton.

Caistor see a chance to close in on leaders Messingham this weekend

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A HECTIC weekend is in store in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League, with interesting matches in all five divisions.

And Sunday sees the quarter-finals of the George Marshall Trophy knockout competition.

Premier division leaders Messingham are without a Saturday fixture, giving Peter Briggs' second-placed Caistor Town the chance to close the considerable gap if they can win at Horncastle.

High scoring is expected at Chichester Road, where Liam Redmond's Scunthorpe Town head down the seafront to take on Paul Sunley's Cleethorpes 2nds – both sides being in the lower half of the table.

Little driving distance is involved for Gareth Mellors' Barton Town who visit Steve Clay's Alkborough at West Halton Lane for an important derby – both teams being fresh from large totals last weekend and being fifth and sixth in the rankings.

Batsmen could profit out in the Isle of Axholme, where Mark Atkins' Haxey host Bracebridge Heath 2nds, who currently occupy one of the relegation spots.

Lol Waghorn's third-in-the-table South Kelsey journey to Scunthorpe to meet bottom side Appleby-Frodingham 2nds at Brumby Hall, where the Steelmen will be hoping their fortunes take a turn for the better.

Division one leaders Cherry Willingham journey to Louth 2nds, who have moved up steadily to fourth place.

Alford's ground has produced some big scores in their bid for promotion and tomorrow Cleethorpes 3rds pay a visit.

Also with an eye on climbing back into the top flight, Broughton have an important home game against Nettleham 2nds. Outcasts host lowly Hykeham.

Holton-le-Clay have home advantage against Scothern, who need points to ease their relegation concerns.

In division two, leaders Messingham 2nds hope to get back to winning ways when they host Haxey 2nds after losing their first league match last weekend.

There's an intriguing West Lindsey clash at Rase Park between Market Rasen and Owmby, while the same area of the county sees Caistor 2nds host Cleethorpes 4ths at Brigg Road.

The main match in division three will be between third-placed Hibaldstow and visiting leaders Keelby, while fellow promotion hopefuls Stamford Homes (Grimsby) journey to Heslam Park to take on Scunthorpe Town 2nds.

Cherry Willingham 2nds' host Immingham Blossom Way, while bottom side Holton-le-Clay 2nds visit mid-table Washingborough.

Division four championship favourites South Kelsey 2nds have home advantage against lowly Scunthorpe Town 3rds.

Old Lincolnians will be hoping to step up their promotion bid with a derby victory at Hykeham 2nds.

Brigg Town, who prop up the table, host improving Market Rasen 2nds, while Keelby 2nds entertain mid-table Morton.

Sunday sees the George Marshall Trophy quarter-finals.

Division one Louth 2nds are the only side outside the top-flight to reach the last eight and they have a home tie against Barton Town.

Perhaps the pick of the others will be at Brigg Road, where Caistor host Messingham.

Close encounters may be in prospect when Alkborough entertain Horncastle, and Bracebridge Heath 2nds meet Cleethorpes 2nds.

Premier division games start at 1pm; matches in all other sections, and the George Marshall cup-ties, get under way at 1.30pm.

FIXTURES

TOMORROW

PREMIER DIVISION: Alkborough v Barton Town; Appleby-Frodingham 2nds v South Kelsey; Cleethorpes 2nds v Scunthorpe Town; Haxey v Bracebridge Heath 2nds; Horncastle v Caistor Town.

DIVISION ONE: Alford v Cleethorpes 3rds; Broughton v Nettleham 2nds; Holton-le-Clay v Scothern; Louth 2nds v Cherry Willingham; Outcasts v Hykeham.

DIVISION TWO: Caistor Town 2nds v Cleethorpes 4ths; Market Rasen v Owmby; Messingham 2nds v Haxey 2nds.

DIVISION THREE: Barton Town 2nds v Broughton 2nds; Cherry Willingham 2nds v Immingham Blossom Way; Hibaldstow v Keelby Scunthorpe Town 2nds v Stamford Homes; Washingborough v Holton-le-Clay 2nds.

DIVISION FOUR: Brigg Town v Market Rasen 2nds; Hykeham 2nds v Old Lincolnians; Keelby 2nds v Morton; South Kelsey 2nds v Scunthorpe Town 3rds.

SUNDAY

GEORGE MARSHALL TROPHY QUARTER FINALS: Alkborough v Horncastle; Bracebridge Heath 2nds v Cleethorpes 2nds; Caistor Town v Messingham; Louth 2nds v Barton Town.

Louth rise to fourth in Division One after impressive triumph at Holton-le-Clay

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

HAVING taken some weeks to find their feet after gaining promotion to the second tier of Lincolnshire County League cricket, Louth 2nds moved up to fourth place with a seven-wicket success at Holton-le-Clay.

Choosing to take first use of their Tetney Lane strip, the villagers had to be content with 163 for eight, Ian Bellamy scoring 66 and skipper Ian Hallam 46, as Lee Freeman captured four for 47.

Louth paced their reply well and had four overs to spare when the winning run arrived, Zeeshan Ahmed being undefeated on 60 and Dave Clarke managing 38.

Meanwhile, promotion-chasing Alford have staked a claim for inclusion in the Lincolnshire League's "special records" section, topping 300 on successive Saturdays.

Having put Outcast to the sword the previous week, they visited bottom-place Hykeham and rattled up 300 for five in 45 overs.

Matt Keeling hit 85, opener Andrew White 85, Neil Calvert 64 not out and Mark Irving 36 not out, with Andy Fletcher taking two for 48 in ten overs.

Hykeham were then dismissed for 88, of which Chris Hammond made 36, as Glyn James bagged seven for 30 in only 8.2 overs, including a hat-trick.

The margin between success and failure in cricket is often a narrow one, as unbeaten leaders Cherry Willingham will appreciate after squeezing to the closest of victories at home to Outcasts – with their last pair at the wicket.

Despite the low scoring this was a cracking match, Cherry being pushed all the way by the determined visitors who were bowled out for a seemingly dismal score of 106.

That included 23 from Andy Torr and 21 by Russell Fletcher, as Keith Whiteley took three for 19.

Defending such a low total, it would have been easy for Outcasts to give up the ghost but they bowled exceptionally well apart from one major fault – 14 no-balls. Liam McAnaney took four for 31 and 16-year-old Alex Fletcher four for 22 as Cherry were made to battle for every run.

But Scott Coupland's 29, Will Carter's 22 and those woeful no-balls saw Cherry squeeze home by just one wicket.

In Sunday's only game, third-placed Broughton won at Cleethorpes 3rds (seventh).

Broughton's 193 for seven included 61 by Paul Reed and 46 from Neil Simpson, as opener Jeff Todd took two for 48.

The Meggies had to be content with an all-out 157, in which Dan Tolson hit 66 in the middle-order after his top three colleagues had all failed to make double figures.

It was a good all-round match for Reed, who claimed three for 24 in the visiting attack and held a couple of catches, to add to his earlier good work with the bat.

In the premier division, second-placed Caistor Town looked to have posted a handy score of 239 for six when they hosted Alkborough.

Sehan Wijerathne led the way with 91, Harry Boulton scored 65 and Mark Gowshall 31, as Ian Roden took five for 40.

However, Alkborough are renowned as a very powerful batting side and James Barker's hard-hit 100, plus 37 from Steve Clay and 33 by Nigel Brown, helped guide them to a four-wicket success.

Opener Paul Dimbleby sent down 18 overs in the heat to claim three for 83.

Elsewhere, Cleethorpes 2nds lost by 17 runs at home to Horncastle at Chichester Road.

A good opening stand of 95 set the visitors on their way to 218 for nine in the permitted 50 overs, opener Nick Paige making 59, Dan Freeman 56 and Pubs Chandrasekara 33.

The Meggies were dismissed for 201 with three balls remaining in the final over, Joe Farmery hitting 56 and Chris Wragg 36.

Bowlers to do well were Inderjit Hayre, Rob Griffin and Rich Griffin – each with three wickets for Cleethorpes – while Pete Jackson managed four for 52 for the visitors, who now move up to fourth spot.

There seems to be no holding leaders Messingham at present, with Bracebridge Heath 2nds the latest team to fall short in their efforts.

The Lincoln lads visited Northfield Road, elected to bat first but were dismissed for 137, in the 46th over – Carl Stubbs' 65 being the only innings of note.

Messingham took just over 25 overs to secure another 20-point haul, opener Ian Dawson being unbeaten on 58.

Home skipper Andy Langford had the game's best figures of five for 35, with James Wright taking two for 26 for the visitors.

South Kelsey's 63-run home win over Scunthorpe Town leaves them third and Town third from bottom in this very close division where only 18 points divide eight teams (20 being gained for an outright victory).

Steve Wright's 88 was the highlight of the villagers' 279 for seven, Kumud Wijayaratna adding 58, Atiq Ullah 44 and Dale Coy 32.

With Neil Patrick scoring 80 and Sunny Sen 74, Scunthorpe responded with 216 for six.

Town were missing a number of regulars, including Liam Redmond, Ram Chand and Simon Kiddle.

However, Josh Pashley stepped up a level to the premier division and bowled a good spell, while Pop Robson had another lengthy stint in the stifling heat.

Messingham 2nds' lead in division two was cut to 16 points after defeat to Grimsby Town 2nds.

And at the other end, Haxey 2nds' home win over Cleethorpes 4ths saw the Isle of Axholme villagers move out of the relegation zone at the expense of the Meggies.

Experienced Steve Ryan led the way with 77, James Robertson made 40 and Scott Barlow 28 in Haxey's 208 for eight.

However, Cleethorpes failed to threaten the target, being dismissed for 78, Aaron Moody taking five for 26 and Paul Bradley three for 11.

Sadly, bottom side Outcasts 2nds made it no win in 10 outings when losing heavily by nine wickets at home to Hartsholme 2nds.

The Isle side were dismissed for only 114 (inside 37 overs) and failed to take a single point from the game as the Lincoln visitors reached their target in the 29th over.

In a mid-table battle, Alkborough 2nds lost by four wickets when hosting Caistor 2nds.

Neil Gray hit 30 but Alkborough set themselves a tough task by scoring only 131, visiting skipper Dan Healy doing the bulk of the damage with six for 24.

Caistor's reply owed much to the efforts of Paul Jackson (50 not out) and Andy Pearson (41 not out), with Simon Leak taking three for 27 in the home attack.

Game of the day in division threecame in Grimsby, where second-placed Stamford Homes successfully chased a daunting target to beat fourth-in-the-table Barton Town 2nds.

An opening stand of 72 (Jeremy Evans 52) set Barton on their way to a commendable 234 for eight, Graves making 65, as Mick Hanson took seven for 71 in 15 overs.

However, Stamford rose to the challenge with Vishnu Marijunath undefeated on 95 and Niall Dunn scoring 78.

Hibaldstow, who are third, won well away to mid-table Immingham Blossom Way.

Highlights of Hibaldstow's 205 for six were 52 from skipper Mark Nicholson, 49 from Jon Taylor and 34 by Mel Oades, as Scott Hilton claimed three for 50.

Immingham were dismissed for 125 (Anthony George 33, Paul Farmery 29) as Simon Pullan took three for 39.

Scunthorpe Town 2nds put a little daylight between them and the relegation places with an emphatic home win over bottom side Holton-le-Clay 2nds.

Town's 212 for eight featured 61 from Matt Pashley, 43 by Ben Ibrahim, 36 from Daz Quibell and 21 not out by Jon Hernon.

Holton were dismissed for 132 in reply, Jon Jacklin taking two for 12.

Keelby proudly head the division, proving too strong with bat and ball for Broughton 2nds, who were dismissed for 138 (Smith five for 34, Spencer four for 41).

Robson then cracked an undefeated 74 as Keelby won by eight wickets.

In division four, second-in-the-table Caistor 3rds inflicted another 10-wicket "whitewash" on Scunthorpe Town 3rds, who are second-from-bottom.

However, Town came very close to a division four record stand of 70 for the ninth wicket between Chris Parry and James Fussey – falling just five runs short.

James top scored with 37 in Scunthorpe's 140, only for Ryan McKitton to crack an undefeated 94 as Caistor's openers chased down the target on their own.

Chasing promotion, Old Lincolnians could have done without a four-wicket reverse at Alford 2nds.

Old Lincs were bowled out for 163 (in 38 overs), Matt Jelly making 54 and Dave Hill 42, as Paul Nickson claimed three for 14 and Kev White two for 20.

Alford got a good start courtesy of Tom Stephenson (45) and White 26, with Gary Allis adding 29, Alan Irving 21 and Johnny Wood 22 not out.

Tim Phipps (two for 46) had best figures for the visitors.

Brigg Town remain at the foot of the table but the margin of their latest defeat at Morton was only two wickets – and the Gainsborough side had only an over to spare.

Brigg posted a decent 183 for six but Morton got the runs required, despite Dylan Hildreth bagging five for 53.

South Kelsey are the premier division big hitters as Messingham march on

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

LEADERS Messingham enjoyed another emphatic home win in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division, seeing off Bracebridge Heath 2nds by eight wickets.

But it was South Kelsey who recorded the top flight's top total with 279 while beating Scunthorpe Town in a match which produced an impressive 495 runs.

Barton Town were not far behind with 260 on their way to seeing off Appleby-Frodingham 2nds, Simon McInerney scoring a century.

Super Simon was matched by big-hitting James Barker as Alkborough chased down 240 to win at Caistor, who started the day in second spot.

In a much closer encounter, Horncastle won by 17 runs at Cleethorpes 2nds – both teams topping 200.

In division one, leaders Cherry Willingham had to work very hard to preserve their unbeaten record with a one-wicket home win over Outcasts.

Louth 2nds' improvement continued with a seven-wicket success over Holton-le-Clay, while promotion-chasing Alford won by the huge margin of 212 runs at lowly Hykeham.

Division two leaders Messingham 2nds tasted defeat for the first time in the league this season, going down by eight wickets to second-placed Grimsby Town 2nds.

Caistor 2nds won by four wickets on their travels at Alkborough 2nds, while Haxey 2nds eased relegation concerns with a convincing home win over Cleethorpes 4ths.

However, bottom side Outcasts 2nds remain winless following a nine-wicket home defeat at the hands of Hartsholme 2nds.

The chase to land the division three championship pennant remains wide open, with the main contenders winning convincingly.

Keelby saw off Broughton 2nds by eight wickets, while Stamford Homes chased down 235 to defeat Barton Town 2nds.

Scunthorpe Town 2nds eased their relegation worries with a comfortable home win over bottom-placed Holton-le-Clay 2nds.

But Immingham Blossom Way are left looking a shade anxious about their position following a heavy reverse against Hibaldstow, who could yet challenge the top two.

In division four, Caistor 3rds stepped up their push for promotion with a dominant, ten-wicket defeat of Scunthorpe Town 3rds.

But Old Lincolnians' bid to secure higher grade cricket next summer was dealt a blow by losing to Alford 2nds.

Market Rasen 2nds showed welcome good form in beating Keelby 2nds in a low-scoring encounter. Bottom team Brigg Town set a decent target at Morton but it proved insufficient.

PREMIER DIVISION: Barton Town 260 (McInerney 127, Ayub 8-74), Appleby-Frodingham 2nds 77; Caistor Town 239 for six (Wijerathne 91, Boulton 65, Roden 5-40), Alkborough 240 for six Barker 100); Horncastle 218 for nine (Paige 59, Freeman 56), Cleethorpes 2nds 201 (Farmery 56); Bracebridge Heath 2nds 137 (A Langford 5-35), Messingham 141 for two (I Dawson 58 not out); South Kelsey 279 for seven (Wright 88, K Wijayaratna 50), Scunthorpe Town 216 for six (Patrick 80, Sen 74).

DIVISION ONE: Outcasts 106, Cherry Willingham 109 for nine; Holton-le-Clay 163 for eight (Bellamy 66), Louth 2nds 167 for three (Ahmed 60); Alford 300 for five (Keeling 88, A White 85, Calvert 64 not out), Hykeham 88 (James 7-30).

DIVISION TWO: Alkborough 2nds 131 (Healy 6-24), Caistor Town 2nds 137 for six (Jackson 50 not out); Messingham 2nds 167 for seven, Grimsby Town 2nds 168 for two (Wood 51 not out); Haxey 2nds 208 for eight (Ryan 77), Cleethorpes 4ths 78 (Moody 5-26); Outcasts 2nds 114, Hartsholme 2nds 116 for one.

DIVISION THREE: Hibaldstow 205 for six (Nicholson 52), Immingham Blossom Way 126; Broughton 2nds 138 (Smith 5-34), Keelby 142 for two (Robson 74 not out); Scunthorpe Town 2nds 212 for eight (M Pashley 61), Holton-le-Clay 2nds 132; Barton Town 2nds 234 for eight (Graves 65, Evans 52, Hanson 7-71), Stamford Homes 237 for five.

DIVISION FOUR; Old Lincolnians 163 (M Jelly 54), Alford 2nds 167 for six; Keelby 2nds 89 (Salmon 5-18, Norburn 5-29), Market Rasen 2nds 90 for three; Brigg Town 183 for six, Morton 184 for eight (Hildreth 5-53); Scunthorpe Town 3rds 140, Caistor Town 3rds 143 for no wicket (R McKitton 94 not out).

Caistor lose out to leaders Messingham in battle of the premier division big hitters

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

SECOND-placed Caistor lost more ground on the Lincolnshire County Cricket League premier division leaders Messingham with a 74-run defeat.

Dave Dawson led the way with 60 in Messingham's daunting all-out 250, while Kieran Lindley bagged five for 61 as the visitors were dismissed for 176.

Apart from the top side and Appleby-Frodingham 2nds, who are well adrift at the foot of the table, only 25 points divide the other nine teams in a very closely-grouped division.

As a result, Haxey, with two victories at the weekend, have risen from the relegation zone to third spot.

Sunday saw them defeat bottom side Appleby-Frodingham by two wickets. Mick Bramley led the way with 84 not out for the Scunthorpe Steelmen, as Nic Bisby grabbed five for 24 in a total of 233 for nine.

Rob Young (60) and Bisby (52) then impressed as the Isle of Axholme villagers chased down the target for the loss of eight wickets, despite the efforts of Kieran Watson (three for 29).

On Saturday, Haxey performed well to win at home to Alkborough.

Haxey's 244 for five (in 50 overs) included 65 by Oliver Tonks, 54 not out by Isuru Gunasena, 53 by Tom Wraith and 45 not out from Joe Scott, as Steve Clay took two for 49.

Alkborough were dismissed for 180, in which Nigel Brown scored 26, as all-rounder Young grabbed six for 64 – more than making up for missing out with the bat after posting a century the previous week.

There was a praiseworthy last-wicket stand of 45 between Steve Kemshall (20) and Ian Ross (21 not out) for the visitors – until that man Young made the breakthrough.

As a result of the close nature of the division, Scunthorpe Town find themselves a creditable fourth after Saturday's six-wicket triumph at fifth-placed Bracebridge Heath 2nds.

Graeme McDowell (59), Stuart Fraser-Cattanach (54) and Matt Turner (40) were the mainstays of the Lincoln lads' 237 for eight, as Pop Robson sent down 17 overs to claim three for 78 and Umar Gondal managed two for 28 in 10.

But that proved a target well within the visitors' reach, Ian Snowden hitting 90 not out, Simon Kiddle 46 and skipper Liam Redmond 43 not out.

Tom Cuthbert claimed two for 54 for Bracebridge to complete a decent all-round performance, having earlier scored 24 not out.

Horncastle's batting proved too strong for visiting Barton Town – 282 for five featuring 104 from Nick Paige and 61 by Pubs Chandrasakara.

Barton failed to rise to the challenge, being dismissed for 154, but their statistical expert, Mark Austin, reports that for the second week running their first team had a stand of 81 for the ninth wicket – this week's pairing being Ian Andrew and Will Yates.

There was a run fest down at Alford, where the division one promotion-chasers smashed a divisional record on their way to inflicting a heavy defeat on shell-shocked Outcasts.

Wayne Garlick (119) and Andrew White (131) compiled a magnificent opening partnership of 266, which eclipsed the previous best in this section – 235 by Wayne Reed and Matt Hammond for Broughton 3rds in 2006.

Outcasts feared they were in for an afternoon spent chasing leather in the heat when the home openers plundered 62 runs from the opening six overs. Andrew White brought up his own century in style with a massive six and his side went on to make a massive 329 for four in 45 overs, Ross Dixon joining in the carnage with a late, unbeaten 41.

Left-arm seamer Liam McAnaney dismissed the century-makers with successive deliveries – the batsmen crossed before a catch was held – to finish with two for 99.

Outcasts made a decent start with a half-century opening stand between father and son Mark and Ollie Coulman, dad making 33 and the junior partner 27.

Birthday boy Russ Fletcher chipped in with 30, but the innings fell away to 158.

Spinner Graham Priestley returned the remarkable figures of five for five as leaders Cherry Willingham comfortably saw off visiting Nettleham 2nds, in a local derby.

Cherry were bowled out for 202, but – with Priestley rampant – the visitors never threatened, being dismissed for 75.

Mark Conyers cracked a magnificent 146 as bottom side Hykeham won again – this time at the expense of Holton-le-Clay.

The opener's super effort came in a total of 255 for seven – no-one else getting anywhere near 30.

However, no batsman topped 20 in the visitors all-out 110, as Richard Chester took four for 16.

Only 13 runs divided the teams when Cleethorpes 3rds won at home to Scothern – both being in the lower reaches of the table. So this proved an important win for the Meggies.

Highlights of their 210 for seven were 67 not out from Dan Tolson, 67 by Paul Ridley and 38 from opener Elliott Drinkell, as Richard Johnson took three for 53 and Ian Brown three for 55.

Peter Wright managed 60 and Johnson 29 in Scothern's 197 for nine, as Lewis Markham bagged four for 63.

Louth 2nds now seem to be finding their feet at this level having gained promotion, and Saturday saw them secure a very satisfactory win at promotion-chasing Broughton.

Louth made a seemingly moderate 164 for nine, John Medler hitting 53 and Paul Reed taking four for 12.

However, Broughton were bowled out for 135, of which all-rounder Reed managed 44 in the middle-order as Dale Chambers ripped through the innings with a super eight for 52 in 17.2 overs.

Messingham 2nds' seemingly unstoppable race to secure the division two championship pennant continued with another handsome win – this time when visiting Lincoln to take on Hartsholme 2nds.

Their batting line-up did the leaders proud with 272 for five, Adam Cook leading the way with 106, Rob Talbot making 50, Matt Lawson 40 and Matt Snee 38.

Veteran Geoff Sewell hit 54 for Hartsholme, and fellow opener Adrian Bunn 26, but after that the home side failed to come to terms with the bowling of Sheldon Sekel (six for 29) and were dismissed for 152.

Paul Rocks' title-chasers remain unbeaten after 10 league fixtures – eight straight wins and two rain-ruined fixtures.

Grimsby Town 2nds seem well placed for a return to division one, and Saturday saw a workmanlike display at Augusta Street to see off visiting Haxey 2nds.

The lowly-placed Isle of Axholme villagers elected to bat first but could muster only 120, of which experienced opener Steve Ryan contributed 65, as James McGregor took four for 65 and captain Dan Wood three for 34.

Grimsby lost five wickets on their way to securing victory – but it took only 24 overs – Nigel Fanthorpe leading the way with 64 and Andy Hardy cracking 36, as Damon Hughes took three for 82 and Paul Bradley two for 23.

Caistor Town 2nds' skipper Dan Healy was full of praise for the sporting spirit shown by visiting Owmby.

With only one officially-appointed umpire, players had to fill in at the striker's end. And when there was a close call for a run-out, one of the stand-in umpires was unable to give a ruling as a fielder had obstructed his view at the crucial moment the bails flew.

That state of affairs was readily accepted by Caistor, the fielding side, but experienced Owmby batsman Andy Simpson realised he was short of the crease when the stumps were broken, and therefore "walked" – a sporting gesture which summed up the way the game should be played, and often is!

The match itself ended in a comfortable home win for Caistor, whose 217 for five featured a praiseworthy 102 not out from Tom Boryszczuk and 66 by Liam Wood.

Healy himself then bagged five for 35 as Owmby were bowled out for 137, in which veteran batsman Edwin Chappell contributed 29 and Kev Bowring 28.

Lady luck again failed to smile down on Outcasts 2nds – Ian Fletcher's bottom-placed side coming agonisingly close to recording their first league win of the season.

However, promotion hopefuls Market Rasen sneaked home with their last pair at the wicket and two balls to spare in a thrilling match.

Outcasts were bolstered by the return of master blaster Andy Lawson, who did not disappoint with a typically quickfire 71 in a total of 207 for seven, Brett Smith adding a handy 40 and Anthony Fitzgerald 34.

But the home side's bowling attack could not defend the total at Hirst Priory, allowing Rasen to scramble home.

Those of us who expected a close encounter of the cricketing kind at West Halton Lane were in for a surprise – for home side Alkborough 2nds easily defeated Cleethorpes 4ths.

Highlights of the villagers' 216 for four were 48 not out from Ben Walker, 48 by AJ (Alex) Jenkins and 47 from Neil Gray.

Mr Experience, Richard Kirman, then got to work after tea, grabbing six for 28 as the Meggies were dismissed for only 61 – the lowest score of the day in the entire league.

Hibaldstow's victory away to fellow division three promotion hopefuls Barton Town 2nds was very much Taylor-made.

Long-serving opener Jon Taylor hit 108 not out for the visiting villagers, and son Tom 35, in a total of 204 for six.

Tom then bowled well to take three for 27 as the Marsh Lane men replied with 144 for nine. Not content with that, he also held two catches and had a hand in a couple of run-outs.

Tom Palin performed well with bat and ball for Barton, taking two for 55 in 14 overs and then hitting 43.

Keelby moved to the top of the table – by virtue of winning at home to Cherry Willingham 2nds and the fact previous leaders Stamford Homes (Grimsby) were without a fixture, a big scooter festival being held on their ground.

Gary Spencer, who is having a fine season for Keelby, took four for 20, and Andy Smith four for 18, as Cherry were dismissed for 123.

Matt Bevis (44 not out) then played his part in ensuring Keelby achieved their modest target.

There was an agonising one-run defeat for bottom-placed Holton-le-Clay 2nds when they hosted Immingham Blossom Way, also with some concerns about possible relegation.

Kev Laister scored 48 and Paul Farmery 34 in Immingham's all-out 170, as Bob Welton took three for 19, Jim Birkwood two for 34 and Aimee Simms two for 41 in 15 overs.

Holton needed two runs to win off the final delivery of the match but unfortunately Gary Nicholls (who had batted well to reach 57 not out) failed to connect and they finished agonisingly short of their target on 169 for seven, Mike Northern having earlier made 39.

In a game where veterans were very much to the fore, Dennis Parker (three for 17) played an important part in the visitors' win, making significant inroads into the lower order.

Scunthorpe Town 2nds remain in relegation trouble but will be heartened by their one-wicket win over Washingborough, for whom Mark Willey top scored with 66 in a decent 194 for nine.

But it was not quite enough as Ali Gondal's 71 helped see Town across the finishing line.

Connor Hawkins bagged six for 56 as leaders South Kelsey 2nds won at home to Morton in division four – although the three-wicket margin dividing the teams was perhaps closer than many basement section observers might have expected.

The Gainsborough visitors were bowled out for 156, and it took 45 from the experienced Andy Walton to ensure Kelsey got sufficient runs to secure another 20 points for an outright victory.

Market Rasen 2nds are extremely keen to avoid having to seek re-election again, and that determination was evident as they secured an emphatic home win over Hykeham 2nds.

Rob Chamberlin (133 not out, including 19 fours and two sixes) and Andy Richley (50) shared a super stand of 134 which was only just short of the Lincs League fifth wicket record.

Hykeham, for whom Will Murray had earlier taken five for 45, were dismissed for exactly 100 in reply.

Mike Duffy had an unusual distinction for Old Lincolnians – scoring more runs himself than the opposition. He made 109 of promotion-chasing Old Lincolnians' all-out 243, following which they bowled out visiting Keelby 2nds for 101.

Alford 2nds made the lengthy drive up to Hibaldstow to take on lowly Scunthorpe Town 3rds – but it wasn't too long before they were returning home with a 10-wicket, 20-point maximum win in the bag.

On one of the very best batting tracks in the league, Town were dismissed for 83 in the 26th over, Abhishek Rampaul's 31 being the only double-figure contribution, apart from extras.

Much of the damage was inflicted by Kev White and Mike Honman (both managing three for 13).

Alford needed less than 10 overs to secure their win, openers Joe Czornyj and Tom Stephenson finishing 47 not out and 32 not out respectively.

East Halton suffered a six-wicket defeat at home to Fenner 3rds in division two of the East Yorks Alliance

The North Lincs villagers were bowled out for a disappointing 93, in which James Mikkonen made 21 at the top of the order.

Stuart Davidson (four for 34) performed well after tea but the number of runs at the bowlers' disposal was insufficient.

In division three, promotion hopefuls Brigg Town 2nds lost by four wickets when visiting Sutton on Hull 3rds. Town were dismissed for 114 in 28 overs – a target comfortably within reach of the home side.

Record-breaking ninth-wicket partnership holds up South Kelsey... but not for long

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

RECORDS tumbled in the top flight of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League on a superb day of cricket action.

South Kelsey were on the receiving end of a record-breaking ninth wicket partnership as Barton Town's Billy Wright and Will Yates put on an unbeaten 81 – but the pair still finished on the losing side.

The partnership beat the 79 runs added by Louth duo J Reynolds and N Chesterton against Bracebridge Heath in 2002 and it completed a unique double for bowler Wright, who last season shared in division three's 10th wicket record while playing for the club's second team.

Kelsey's Chandi Wathukarage managed exactly 100 to top score in their 227 for seven, with Barton being contained to 186 for eight in reply.

More magnificent batting saw one of the league's longest-standing top-flight records smashed by a couple of Haxey batsmen.

Rob Young and Ollie Tonks added 246 runs for the fifth wicket against Appleby-Frodingham 2nds, comfortably overtaking the 1971 effort of 166 by Brian Christie and Geoff Plaskitt for Grimsby Town against Paper Mills.

Having made a poor start to the season, Haxey found themselves in some trouble against the bottom-placed Scunthorpe Steelmen at Brumby Hall, slumping to 27 for four after 17 overs.

However, that brought Young and Tonks to the crease and together they destroyed the App-Frod attack, compiling their unbeaten 246-run partnership in just 33 overs in a terrific team total of 273 for four in 50 overs.

In reply, Frod started well, reaching 102 for one in 30 overs, but then lost wickets steadily to be bowled out for 156, opener Vince Grimes – the former Scunthorpe United footballer – carrying his bat for an unbeaten 64.

For the Steelmen, Jack Forrester managed two for 65, while Haxey's top performers with the ball were Aaron Moody (four for 27) and Paul Bradley (two for 11).

Elsewhere, second-placed Caistor Town really needed to win at home to Bracebridge Heath 2nds, but the visitors secured victory with their last pair at the wicket.

Caistor's 200 for seven featured 59 from Sahan Wijerathne, 27 not out by Lewis Jefferson and 26 from Harry Boulton, as Paul Fletcher bagged five for 63.

For the visitors, opener Ryan Watson managed 60, Matt Turner 57 and Carl Stubbs 35 – but Ben Powell's unbeaten 12 at the end proved just as important. Caistor's best bowling figures were Jefferson's three for 47.

Messingham continue to look set to earn themselves the chance to take another crack at life in the Lincolnshire ECB Premier League, having, like Caistor, suffered relegation to the top-flight of the Lincolnshire county competition for 2010.

On Saturday, Messingham visited another of the title challengers, Cleethorpes 2nds, and returned from their day out at the seaside with 20 more points in the locker.

Messingham won the toss and captain Andy Langford elected to take first use of the Chichester Road strip, which proved a wise choice as they made 244 for eight. Highlights were 92 from Richard Dannatt and 63 from Cameron Fletcher, as Jack Harrison managed two for 62 and Indie Hayre two for 39.

The Meggies were bowled out for 210 in the 48th over, James Windeatt top scoring with 40 and skipper Paul Sunley making 37, as Andy Langford captured five for 56.

Given the strength-in-depth of Alkborough's batting, Scunthorpe Town knew they would need to post a competitive target on their visit to West Halton Lane – one of the league's northerly outposts.

However 203 for seven, in which Simon Kiddle made 92 and Liam Redmond 50 not out, did not prove enough, as John Knapton and James Barker made 44 apiece and Nigel Brown 37 not out. Alkborough's Steve Clay was the game's most effective bowler with four for 46.

Not a lot of people know it but Holton-le-Clay's inability to "Get Carter" cost them dearly in a 60-run defeat at home to leaders Cherry Willingham in division one.

Will Carter stroked his way to 102 not out in Cherry's 235 for seven, in 45 overs, Scott Coupland helping along the way with 43.

The home side replied with 175 for seven, in which Peter Thompson made 50 and Sam Ford 50 not out.

Lewis Gash (two for 43) was the only Holton bowler to manage more than a single wicket, while Graham Priestley took three for 38 for the visitors.

Cleethorpes 3rds visited London Road but were beaten by Louth 2nds, who have been showing improved form of late.

The Meggies posted 217 for seven, opener Ryan Harrison leading the way with 45 and Elliott Drinkell hitting 36, as Matthew Hamilton took two for 44.

Louth won with an over to spare and seven wickets remaining, Jason Collinson finishing 92 not out and Mark Duell scoring 45, despite the efforts of Jeff Todd (two for 42).

Alford are third following a three-wicket triumph away to mid-table Nettleham 2nds at Mulsanne Park.

Nettleham's all-out 154 included 41 not out – down the order – from Martin Connor, and 31 by Chris Smith.

Andrew White then played a captain's innings of 60 – supported by all-rounder 32 from Glyn James – as Alford took the lion's share of the points.

Mark Irving (three for 30) and James (three for 77) bowled well for the visitors, while Alexander Graham took four for 34 in Nettleham's attack.

With both teams in the upper echelon of the table, Outcasts and Broughton were expected to contest a close encounter – but visiting Broughton won by the wide margin of 84 runs.

Broughton were dismissed for 189 – Joe Wiley cracking 44 – as left-arm seamer Liam McAnaney bagged five for 34 and Jason Whiteley four for 41.

However, Paul Clark then got to work for the visitors, taking eight for 31, including five LBWs, to bowl Outcasts out for 105, of which Andy Torr made 30.

The Lincoln area derby saw Hykeham break their duck for the season with a 28-run win over Scothern.

Richard Johnson took six for 51 and Ian McGowan three for 28 as Scothern restricted Hykeham to 129 for nine, Mark Conyers hitting 56. But Richard Chester then grabbed five for 23 as Scothern were dismissed for 101.

Owmby moved into third place in division two by virtue of another good bowling display, seeing off Alkborough 2nds.

Visiting Alkborough saw their hopes of a win well and truly arrested by the Sheriff – Owmby's Ian Sheriff – who took six wickets for nine runs in 7.1 overs with his "slow loopers."

And that after skipper Kev Bowring introduced him as the fifth bowler in an inspired change!

It was a low-scoring game, Owmby's 131 for nine including 45 from Jamie Brumby, while no-one touched 20 for the visitors as they were bowled out for 85.

Earlier, A J Jenkins had managed four for 45 for Alkborough, and Rich Kirman two for 24 in a typically accurate spell of 18 overs.

When everything's going your way as captain and the side is tasting victory week after week, winning the toss and electing to bat is a very easy option.

And so it proved for Paul Rocks whose table-topping side Messingham 2nds rattled up 250 for five on their way to beating Caistor 2nds.

They got a good start from Ian Dawson (87) and fellow opener Matt Snee (36) before Matt Lawson added an undefeated 80.

Caistor were dismissed for 195 in the 41st over, skipper Dan Healy leading the way with 39 and Liam Wood scoring 36.

Wood was also Caistor's most effective wicket-taker with two for 21, while Paul Baxter claimed four for 45 in the home attack.

There's still no "1" in the wins column for bottom side Outcasts 2nds but they fell only 20 runs short while visiting Cleethorpes 4ths, who now move up to sixth.

The Meggies all-out 178 featured 63 from Bob Leafe, as John Wroot bagged five for 45. Outcasts were then dismissed for 158.

Division three leaders Stamford Homes recovered from a terrible start to comfortably win a high-scoring encounter at Hibaldstow.

The Grimsby title-chasers were keen to take advantage of an excellent batting surface, but three of their top four batsmen made ducks.

Unfortunately for the home side, however, they could not dislodge Mick Hanson, batting at three, who played some fine shots all round the ground – at a decent scoring rate.

He enjoyed a particularly profitable middle-order partnership with Indie Sandhu (35) and it seemed only a matter of time before Mick reached what would have been a well-deserved century.

However, on 89, he tried one pull shot too many against wily left-arm seamer Gary Dixon and skied a catch to keeper Chris Nash.

Stamford's tail wagged to very good effect, Dave Laister, batting at eight, contributing a breezy, unbeaten 53 and Andreas Xiarchos depositing a huge six onto the upper branches of the tallest tree on the ground during a handy 17.

Having allowed the visitors to post an impressive 236 for eight, Hibaldstow were left to reflect on some costly dropped catches, Dixon finishing with four for 80 and Simon Pullen with two for 36. Suffering more than anyone from the missed chances in the field, however, was skipper Mark Nicholson, who went wicketless after a decent containing spell of spin towards the end of the innings.

Starting they response, Hibaldstow also lost a couple of early wickets – but Lee Robinson steadied things with a handy 31 and opener Jerry Thomas took advantage of anything off line to help himself to an impressive 76.

However, the support batting Jerry needed at the other end was not really there and Mick Barton returned for a second, decisive spell to polish off the innings at 172.

He returned the fine figures of five for 28 in 11.2 overs on a very batsman-friendly surface.

Hanson, meanwhile, completed a good all-round match with a return of two for 51.

Keelby – hot on Stamford's heels with games in hand – won by nine wickets at Immingham Blossom Way.

Opener Ady Schrimshaw's 36 was as good as it got with the bat for Immingham, who were dismissed for 131, Gary Spencer taking five for 34.

Keelby came very close to inflicting the 10-wicket whitewash, but Jamie Fountain joined the attack to claim a wicket with only five runs needed for victory, Wright making 64 and opening partner Robson 50 not out.

Washingborough have done pretty well this season since gaining promotion but tasted defeat at Marsh Lane, despite making a decent enough 203 for nine, which included 67 from James Sewell.

Barton 2nds were in no mood to hang about, securing their five-wicket win with 10 overs to spare.

The game's top bowler was Dean Cressey, the Barton slow man, with five for 48.

Cherry Willingham 2nds seem to have an uncanny ability to stay just clear of the relegation zone in division three, and that was demonstrated again by Saturday's home win over Scunthorpe Town 2nds, who are second-from-bottom.

Cherry's 125 for nine was a small total to defend, but they did so by bowling out the visitors for 100.

There was a noticeable bowling performance on each side, Josh Pashley taking five for 34 for Scunthorpe and Jamie Burnett six for 40 for the Cherrymen.

Broughton 2nds – entertaining bottom side Holton-le-Clay 2nds – made short work of the job, bowling out the visitors for 54 inside 18 overs, Danny Thompson leading the way with four for 23.

Broughton took less than 12 overs to reach their target, Dave Jones being undefeated on 36 at the close.

Ernie Allison's Caistor Town 3rds continue to be real division four promotion candidates, giving a workmanlike performance to win comfortably away to Brigg Town at the Recreation Ground.

Bottom-placed Brigg's all-out 122 featured 55 at the top of the order from Dylan Hildreth, who very nearly carried his bat before being the ninth man dismissed.

An opening stand of 86 immediately after tea meant Caistor were virtually assured of victory, but Brigg managed to take three wickets to earn the consolation of a bowling bonus point in their efforts to stave off having to seek re-election at the end of the season.

The McKittons played cat and mouse with Brigg throughout the afternoon, Terry taking five for 18 in 10 overs and Ryan making 58.

Caistor are second in the table – just above Old Lincolnians, who lost at home to leaders South Kelsey 2nds.

Old Lincs did not do well enough with the bat, being dismissed for 127 (Matt Thompson five for 74), Rob Dennis cracking an unbeaten 32 in Kelsey's pursuit of a moderate target.

In a mid-table encounter, Hykeham 2nds suffered a two-wicket reverse at home to Morton, for whom Chris Leonard had a fine all-round match.

Russ Bonner led the way with 49 in Hykeham's all-out 168, as Leonard claimed five for 40.

Morton were then indebted to the efforts of Chris Butroid (45) and that man Leonard (28) for inching over the line.

Veteran spinner Udi Sheikh claimed five for 24 as Keelby 2nds won their home game with Scunthorpe Town 3rds – a result which keeps Keelby clear of the re-election zone but leaves Town in trouble.

Keelby posted 219 for nine – Jeremy Slater managing 46, Andy Sharp 38 and Dan Mawer 37. Scunthorpe made a reasonable start but then fell away to 93 all-out.

Market Rasen 2nds are second-from-bottom, their latest outing ending in a 33-run defeat at fourth-in-the-table Alford 2nds.

High spots in Alford's 210 for four were 61 by Kev White and 41 not out from Harry McHamilton.

Jack Wightwick then took three for 25 as Rasen were bowled out for 177, Darren Salmon scoring 43 and Rob Chamberlin 42.

East Halton inched home by two wickets in a East Yorks Alliance division two game at Kirkella 2nds.

The North Lincs villagers bowled out their hosts for 195, Stuart Davidson taking four for 59 and Shed Backhouse three for 23.

After 44 from opener Nigel Godfrey, Adrian Jack (82 not out) saw Halton home, despite wickets tumbling regularly as the target came within sight.

Brigg Town 2nds' division three championship aspirations were dealt a blow when they lost at arch-rivals Bransholme and Kingswood.

The Hull side managed 138 all-out in 28 overs, but Brigg were dismissed for 33 in reply.