SANDBACH claimed victory in one of the lowest-scoring local derbies on record against Wistaston on Saturday.

Despite batting first for almost 41 overs, hosts Sandbach managed to reach just 78 all out, with excellent bowling from Chris Townsend (3-25), James Hogben (3-16), Keith Thornhill (2-21) and James Siddorns (1-9) giving their side a tiny target to chase.

The Villagers must have already turned their thoughts to how a certain victory would affect the title run-in, but they took their eye of the ball.

Sandbach skipper Mark Shall-cross is in a run of fine form and he decimated Wistaston's batting order, taking 6-22 as the visitors slumped to 43 all out.

He was ably supported by Andy Williams (4-11).

Wistaston top scorers were Neil Townsend and Chris Jobbins, who got nine runs apiece.

Also in Division One, Aston enjoyed a thrilling finale to beat visitors Styal by six runs.

The hosts batted first and made 188-4, with A Leese (56), R Pennock (30) and C Beesley unbeaten on 36.

In reply, Styal got tantalisingly close but were bowled out for 182.

Bunbury were beaten by 135 runs in their trip to Chester County Officers.

The hosts batted first and made 225-4, Ian Barlow (68), A Hattersley (48) and S Johnson unbeaten on 45.

Bunbury were bowled out for 90 with Barlow returning 5-53.

In Division Three, promotion is still on the cards for Audlem despite only managing a draw with Mossley. Audlem won the toss and elected to bat on a hard, flat track.

Skipper Steve Swallow led the way with an excellent 70. There were also good contributions from D Parry (62no), R Johnson with (49) and C Goulding (31no), as the hosts declared on 261-5.

Mossley played defensively from the outset of their reply and stumbled their way to a total of 139-5 in reply to leave Audlem frustrated.

However, they are still 10 points clear of third-placed Rostherne with just bottom club Capenhurst left to play in fortnight's time.

nWistaston seconds won their match with Chester County Officers at the Brittles.

Batting first, Chester posted 131-9 from 48 overs, with top scorer A Roberts hitting 34.

Pick of Wistaston's bowlers were Josh Allwood (3-10) and Steve Collins (3-21). In reply, an unbeaten 60 from Neil Steadman saw Wistaston home with 132-2 from just 28 overs.