THE promotion race in Cheshire Alliance Division Two bubbled up to a thrilling climax on Saturday.
Frodsham were left celebrating after securing runners-up spot – meaning they step up to Division One next season – thanks to a seven-wicket home win over Mossley.
They were also indebted to rivals Saughall. The Chester side claimed a superb success at Audlem – who started the day in second and only just missed out on promotion themselves.
At Frodsham, Mossley batted first and scored 109-9 (Dave Neary 5-15, Richard Warburton 4-45). Gav Houghton then scored 40 as Frodsham scored 110-3 – sparking a promotion party.
Over at Audlem, Saughall were busy wrapping up a 25-run victory.
Skipper Chris Andrews had no hesitation in batting first when he called correctly at the toss.
James Huxley, dropped at slip when on nought, top-scored with 63 as the visitors made a solid start. Andrews (36) scored 20 off one over and Saughall’s tail wagged with Mandeep Singh (15), Mike Andrews (9) and Lawrence Gotts (22no) providing late cameos to elevate the final score to 196-8.
Audlem knew a successful run-chase would guarantee promotion, while Saughall needed victory to maintain their own chances of capturing second place.
Early wickets fell, but then Audlem steadied themselves and the contest was in the balance at 132-4.
With a run-a-ball needed in the fading light, wickets began to tumble with Mandeep Singh, Ian Jenkins and Martin Huxley all holding their nerves – and the ball when chances came their way.
Lawrence Gotts (6-46) wrapped up proceedings with a full, straight delivery as Audlem were bowled out for 171 (Dipak Jena 4-59).
Saughall had done all they could – but victory for Frodsham meant the Chester outfit missed out on promotion by just seven points.
Saughall skipper Andrews said: “To miss out so narrowly on promotion is disappointing but we’ve had a terrific season and third place is a great achievement.
“It’s been a real team effort.”
Christleton have retained their place at the top of the County League first XI pitch table, compiled by grounds chairman John Bygate from umpires’ reports.
