WISTASTON Village failed to get the win over hosts Ellesmere Port they needed on Saturday to stay in contention for honours in Division One.
Batting first, the Villagers were able to declare on 224-9 after batting for just 41 overs, with Chris Townsend (34), Steve Barnes (31), Steve Collins (29) and a blistering seven-ball 36 not out by James Hogben compiling the runs.
In reply, Ellesmere Port were in the hunt from the start with contributions from D Green (48), C Roberts (36), P Issacs (28) and G Boys (25).
The tide looked ready to turn due to a fine bowling spell from Chris Townsend (5-64), but Port's last pair held firm and finished on 195-9 to earn a draw.
Also in Division One, Aston could only manage a draw at home to Barclays Radbroke Hall. The visitors batted first and made 227-7, with L Forsythe (77) and P Smith (75). In reply, Aston reached 139-6 with G Davies (33) top scoring.
Also sharing the spoils were Bunbury, at Chelford. Bunbury made first use with 241-9, with N Swinbank (53) and O Williamson (50). For Chelford, P Weston took 4-46. In reply, the hosts made 154-8 with P Weston (49).
Captain Mark Shallcross was the hero as Sandbach took an impressive victory at Chester County Officers. The hosts batted first and were bowled out for 95, largely
due to Shallcross (6-36) and aided by A Williams (4-26). Sandbach won the game with 96-1, with Williams unbeaten on 56.
In Division Three, Audlem stayed in touch at the top with a win at Capenhurst by 46 runs. Audlem batted first and made 187-9 with C Russon taking 4-54. Capen-hurst were bowled out for 141. nWistaston seconds had a comfortable win over visitors Chelford. Batting first, Chelford posted a meagre 136, top scorer C Keating (39). For Wistaston, Richard Barlow took 4-50 from his 17 overs and Dean Titus 4-35 from 14 overs.
In reply D Cook made an unbeaten 42 and D Cogger an unbeaten 21 in Wistaston's reply of 139-1.
