KNYPERSLEY professional Mahmood was in top form as the 1st X1 gave leaders Stone a run for their money.

Stone shut up shop on Saturday to grind out a home draw, and Knypersley thrashed fellow promotion contenders Kidsgrove on Sunday.

Mahmood top scored for Knypersley against Stone with 75 as his side opened with 206 for eight, Cumberbatch scoring 33.

Stone were soon in trouble on 21 for two, and Knypersley were in with a chance of victory after reducing them to 101 for four.

However Stone opted to defend and not lose further wickets, and plodded on to end on 161 for six.

The pick of the Knypersley bowling was Neil Dutton, who took four wickets for 45, and Rob James with two for 23, each side claiming eight points.

Knypersley had an excellent day with the ball at home to Kidsgrove, dismissing the visitors for 124.

Jim Millward took three for 22, and Neil Dutton three for 23.

Knypersley cruised to victory with 127 for three, Mahmood top scoring with an undefeated 58.

Knypersley travel to Burslem tomorrow.