Heavy loss opens way for Bamford

BAMFORD Fieldhouse wicketkeeper Jason Maher can’t quite believe it after a Mel Austin delivery beats the outside edge of Greenfield batsman Ian Batterbee.

CRICKET:

WITH only four games to go, the destination of the Versasteel Saddleworth and District Cricket League title rests firmly in the hands of Bamford Fieldhouse.

Uppermill, who started yesterday’s action on top spot, slipped to second after managing a solitary point in a crushing defeat at home to Glodwick.

The Tanner Cup finalists reduced the hosts to 87 all out in a match reduced to 39 overs per side — Shahid Mahmood claimed four for 32 — before reaching their target for the loss of two wickets.

There were five ducks in the Uppermill innings, with only Darren Shadford (45) making any worthwhile contribution.

At least Alex Griffiths’ side had something to celebrate on Saturday. They recorded a 98-run win at Shaw, who were dismissed for 76.

Bamford assumed control after sweeping aside second-bottom Austerlands at Hollin Lane yesterday.

Chasing 81 after Martin Smith’s five for 11, Chris Schofield helped close out an eight-wicket success thanks to an unbeaten 53.

Bamford, who now lead by 18 points, were made to work much harder by Greenfield 24 hours earlier.

Jonathan Ainley scored 82 and Liam Parfitt 81 not out as the home side compiled 207 for eight.

It was a good effort by Greenfield but not enough to keep Bamford at bay.

Moorside remain third in the table, though just 19 points behind Uppermill and seeing second spot in their sights.

After beating Droylsden by two wickets, Lloyd Kingston’s men followed by hammering Heyside.

The margin of victory was 240 runs

Heyside had a woeful weekend. At one stage on Saturday they were 21 for seven against Hollinwood before eventually being bowled out for 86 — this in reply to 198 for eight.

Hollinwood also had a great win over Stayley.

Requiring a daunting 293, belligerent centuries from Shahid Naseer (115) and Amir Afzal (108) saw their side home.








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