Werneth edge home thriller

CRICKET: WERNETH edged to a dramatic Lake Garage CLL victory over tough cookies Walsden at the Coppice on Saturday.

The visitors batted first and Matt Dawson led the way with 66 as they made 157 for nine, Joe Taylor (five for 33) doing most of the damage for Werneth.

But despite Davey Waghorn’s four for 30, Werneth reached their target with a single wicket to spare, professional Hasnain Abbas scoring a vital 58.

Professional Luke Procter (54) top scored for Royton on their way to 184 all out against Clifton.

And highly-rated teenager Callum Porteous claimed three for 16 as Clifton were skittled for 106, giving Royton an impressive victory.

There was no such joy for Oldham, who suffered a heavy home defeat at the hands of high-flying Littleborough.

Warron Williams notched a superb 150 for the away side, who clocked up 287 for five. Home skipper Chris McDonnell took five for 86.

Oldham’s response never got off the ground and they were skittled for just 79, Max Gayle coming away with a return of four for 44.

Crompton were bowled out for 115 by a strong Middleton outfit at Glebe Street as Danny Core took seven for 38.

Professional Michael Smith’s undefeated 48 helped the visitors to a comfortable nine-wicket win.