THIS semi final clash between Mid Cheshire's two top sides was always going to be a close, hard-fought affair.

But on an afternoon which should have favoured batsmen it is unlikely that either side had expected such a tough challenge.

Neither found run-making easy but a large crowd, no doubt buoyed by the good bank holiday weather, saw Winnington Park get off to a good start with Craig Little (15) and Lewis (33) putting on 45 for the first wicket.

Then Tim Allen (20) and David Leech (31) took the score to near a 100 before Oulton captain Andy McIlroy stepped in to catch and bowl Allen and catch Leech off the bowling of Andy Kent as Winnington Park struggled to 151.

Trouble

This looked a comfortable target for Oulton to chase in 45 overs but when Kent went for only two and Whittle was run out for 13 the reply looked to be in trouble.

Paul Berry briefly threatened and made a quickfire 21 but his reign was cut short when he attempted to hook a short ball from Hayes only to sky it and be caught out with Oulton Park stuck on 47-3.

In a tense atmosphere, the reliable Mike Bentham hit 39 and, supported by a very determined Danny Leech managed to take Oulton Park to 120 before the next wicket fell.

By this time it was virtually all over for Winnington as Leech, who hit a magnificent 53no and Stuart Eaton saw Oulton home with five wickets in hand and an over to spare on 154-5.

Oulton Park will play the winners of Chester Boughton Hall and Bowdon at Bowdon in the final on September 14, with the match starting at noon.