Neston 189-5 Toft 190-6

TOFT kept hold of second spot in the Vivio Cheshire County League’s Premier Division following a thrilling last over victory at Neston on Saturday.

Set a target of 190 from 35 overs to win a contest reduced by heavy rainfall earlier in the day, they scored a four-wicket success thanks to an assured finish by Chris Drummond and Jake Dickinson.

That had looked unlikely following the swift dismissal of openers Jake Hancock and James Drummond, though a partnership worth 120 runs between David Blackburn (61) and Henry Hughes (65) gave them a chance before Eddie Stubbs’ quick-fire knock of 18.

The Knutsford outfit reached 190-6 with three balls to spare.

Neston had raced to 122-1 after being put in, Jack Smith (65) and captain David Hurst (48) swiftly adjusting to the conditions while Toft’s bowlers toiled.

Dickinson finished with figures of 3-65 as the innings closed on 189-5.

The strength of their title challenge will be tested in back-to-back clashes with Chester Boughton Hall and leaders Hyde in the next fortnight.

Toft’s seconds hope to capture a piece of silverware when they contest the Red Insure T20 Trophy finals day, also at Neston, this Sunday.

They have been paired with Warrington in the semi finals, with play scheduled to start at midday.

Toft’s thirds won by 20 runs at pace-setting Hyde in the county league’s Sunday Premier Division.

The visitors totalled 150-9 before Andy Hodgson’s five-wicket haul helped dismiss the hosts for 130.