WEEK 17: NORTHERN EDGE CLEAR; RAINFORD and BIRKENHEAD PARK NOT DONE YET.

Date: 13th August 2016

Division 1 remains wide open; race for second spot in Division 2 hots up.

In the PREMIER Division, Northern had what turned out to be an important win at home to Rainhill whilst nearest rivals Leigh were drawing at Colwyn Bay and Ormskirk lost at Formby. Bootle defeated New Brighton on a day when the two basement clubs breathed new life into their campaigns to stay in the Division. Rainford won off the very last ball at Wallasey (not yet on play-cricket) and Birkenhead Park had a fine win over Lytham.

Competition for places at both ends of DIVISION 1 has tightened up with Ainsdale and Southport and Birkdale battling out an amazing draw with both sides finishing on the same score and both with nine wickets down. Fleetwood Hesketh maintained their challenge with a win at Orrell and Sefton Park are on a roll after their win at Burscough. Wigan lost ground after their defeat at Newton Le Willows. Meanwhile bottom club Maghull won at home to Northop Hall (not yet on play-cricket) and Highfield recorded a crucial win over Prestatyn.

Skelmersdale beat St Helens in DIVISION 2 to remain out of sight with St Helens still in second place from Spring View who won at home from Alder (not yet on play-cricket). Old Xaverians are close behind after their win against Parkfield Liscard and Wavertree beat Southport Trinity. Things are livening up at the foot of the table with Sutton’s success at home to Liverpool and Hightown St Marys winning at Caldy.