KINGSLEY kept their nerve in a low scoring Meller Braggins League Division Two victory at Winsford to get back to winning ways and keep the promotion-chasing pack at bay.
Faced with a soft, worn track and an outfield which was boggy in places, Kingsley asked Winsford to bat first.
Two early wickets put the visitors in charge, but Winsford responded and rode their luck to reach 80-3 at drinks, before Travis Martin (6-56) removed dangermen Mike Clarke and James Dean in quick succession.
Winsford were bowled out for 112, Ben Pearce, Alex Hatt and Josh Rugen on debut each collecting a wicket.
Kingsley made hard work of the run chase. Having spluttered to 17-3, Ben Pearce (24) and Kieron Ollier (17) rebuilt steadily before a middle order collapse left them struggling at 60-7.
But youngster Matt Gabbott decided to stake his first-team claim with an assured 29 and, accompanied by expert closer Eddie Leneghan, chipped away to deliver a two-wicket win.
In Division One, OAKMERE bowled first at Ashton on Mersey and reduced the home side to 12-3.
A mini-revival however saw Ashton close on 144-9 (Nick Ball 2-62, Mike Cushion 2-31, Nick Guest 3-15).
Poor batting meant Oakmere’s response died a death as they were skittled for 72.
In Division Three, BARROW suffered a 129-run defeat at home to Chelford, who made 184-before toppling their hosts for 55.
