Defeat in Procter’s Paddock farewell

CRICKET:

ROYTON’S hopes of qualifying for next year’s LCB Cup remain in their own hands, despite losing heavily to Rochdale in the Lake Garage CLL yesterday.

Luke Procter’s last home game as the Paddock club’s paid man did not go to plan as they slumped to a seven-wicket defeat.

Tom Avery did the damage for the visitors, claiming six for 22 as Royton, who started one place below Rochdale in fifth, crumbled to 70 all out.

Heywood have replaced Royton in the last LCB Cup place — the former were comfortable 86-run winners over Clifton — but all is not lost for Alan Durose’s men.

The final round of fixtures are staged on Sunday, when Royton: yes, you’ve guessed it, visit Heywood.

Werneth, out of the four local clubs, were the only ones to enjoy success.

Matthew Taylor hit 48 and skipper Andy Walker bagged three for 18 in the 14-run defeat of Milnrow, who were dismissed for 146.

Oldham gave Norden, the champions, a fright at Woodhouse Lane.

The hosts, with just two defeats to their name in the league this season, were bowled out for 142, but Oldham could only manage 110 in reply.

Second-bottom Crompton had an afternoon to forget at Glebe Street.

After succumbing to 95 all out, they then watched opponents Monton & Weaste gallop home with all 10 wickets intact. Ben Chapman was unbeaten on 65.

Meanwhile, former Crompton bowler Dale Highton brought up his 100th wicket for the season for Middleton in the defeat of Radcliffe.

The spinner, who started the day on 95, took seven for 51.