WEAVERHAM’S dream for promotion from Meller Braggins League Division Two is nearing a reality after an easy victory over Bowdon Vale on Saturday.

The Russetts’ bowling attack enjoyed the wet wicket at Priory Street as Rob McMillan (4-45), Kevin Douglas (3-0) and James Ollier (2-26) combined to halt the hosts on a meagre 92.

In reply, stand-in skipper Dave Ashley smashed 67 to set up Weaverham’s victory as they made 93-3.

A club spokesman said: “With local rivals Barnton faltering, the result of next week’s derby could be critical in deciding who claims a promotion place in Division One next season.”

At Broomsedge, Winsford edged a hard-fought Mid Cheshire derby with hosts Barnton, who were made to hang on for a share of the spoils.

Batting first, Winsford got off to a good start with Martin Barrett (42) and Colin Dean (30) leading the way. But Barnton’s attack fought back through Paul Coot (4-37) and Neil Langham (3-21) and restricted the visitors to 168.

In reply, Coot hit 43 and Ben Wingfield made 31 but Craig Webb’s spin was too much for the hosts to handle as he took a superb 6-20. Barnton managed to hang on for ten points on 141-9.

In Division One, Northwich leapfrogged their visitors Congleton into second place to further hopes of earning promotion to the Cheshire County League for the first time in the club’s history.

Opening batsman Martyn East smashed 93, with John O’Sullivan (23) and Matt Jamieson (21no) supporting, as the hosts made 192-8 at Moss Farm.

In reply, Congleton were criticised for their negative play as they limped to 131-6 to avoid defeat. Veteran Stuart Hayes continued his good form with 4-58.

Winnington Park continue to help themselves after they grabbed a dramatic victory at the Recreation Ground over Alvanley.

Jason Hayes was once again Park’s hero as he took 5-64, supported by Matt Atherton (3-41), as the visitors closed on 162-8.

In reply, Peter Evans struck a priceless 57 and Jonny Wales added 32 as Park sealed the win with four overs to spare.

Davenham also earned a convincing victory to tighten up matters at the base of Division One.

The Butcher’s Stile outfit enjoyed the conditions on their home pitch as they skittled Mere for just 82. In reply Davenham reached 83 with just three wickets lost.

In the Cheshire Alliance, Hartford’s resurgence continued as they shocked Division One leaders Disley at Grange Park.

The hosts, who have spent most of the season in the lower reaches, skittled out Disley for just 91 as Matt Shinkfield (3-6), Rob Whittle (3-15) and Rob Stimson (3-50) shone with the ball.

In reply, James Hodgkinson rattled up an unbeaten 52 as Hartford won with 93-3 to move up to mid-table.