WILMSLOW CC were defeated at home by Woodford in the UKFast Cheshire Cricket League.

After weeks of sunshine, it was a rain soaked Rectory Field that welcomed near neighbours and fellow early title contenders Woodford.

After a couple of false starts due to the showers, an exciting 64-over game ensued with the visitors gaining a last-over wicket to seal their win by four runs.

The Squirrels invited Woodford to bat, aiming to restrict runs on a damp pitch and slow outfield.

As the day wore on batting would become easier, and based on the previous week’s chase of Winnington Park’s 213 in 32 overs, they were confident most targets were reachable.

At 98 for 7 things were going to plan, Jags Narayanan with 4 for 51 and Lloyd Sykes, 3 for 56, in ascendancy.

Maybe it was the attacking fields and seeking of wickets but Walker, 67 not out, along with the tailenders found another 52 runs.

Most champion teams lose the odd game but do not give up easy points, they also win in scruffy fashion on occasions.

Woodford were smart, bowled their spinners, spread the field and invited Wilmslow to go big.

The bait was taken and only Ethan Harding, 79, curtailed the urge to go early.

To their credit Wilmslow went for victory even when the run rate topped 10.

There were three run-outs and some reckless shots.

With six runs needed to win and two balls left, Harding found Walker on the boundary.

With hindsight, skipper Jay Patel may have decided a draw to be the better pursuit.

The Squirrels visit Bunbury on Saturday.