TONY Collard smashed a four off the last ball of the game to earn Chester County Officers a rare tie.
In an exciting finale to the Meller Braggins League Division Three clash, club stalwart Collard’s boundary took his side to 158-9 – matching the score set by champions Lindow.
The visitors had batted first and went for their shots.
It brought the best out of the CCO bowlers and fielders, with Mike Clarke in particular swinging the ball to finish with career best figures of 8-55. Wicket-keeper Tony Hattersley nabbed three fine catches as Lindow were dismissed for 158.
After tea, Tony Hattersley (30) anchored the CCO innings but, after a middle-order collapse, it was left to Collard to seal a tie. Elsewhere, BUNBURY (155-6) drew at Wirral (194ao).
In Division One, ALVANLEY secured fifth spot with a convincing victory at relegated BARROW.
The hosts opted to bat first and closed on 152ao (Lee Dwyer 40), Robin Fisher taking three wickets to take his tally for the summer to 64.
Alvanley’s reply began poorly, but Andy Bennion anchored the innings with a 92-ball 80no. He shared a century stand with Ben Pearce (51) to help Alvanley towards a winning 153-3.
MALPAS (181-8) lost their final game to Congleton (183-6) while in Division Two, CHOLMONDELEY (209-9dec) beat relegated Bowdon Vale (180).
KINGSLEY (150) lost at home to Runcorn (156-3).
