THE threat of relegation grew stronger on Saturday as Warrington Cricket Club suffered an eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Widnes.

They were ousted for only 145 runs in the Murray Smith Cheshire County League Division One clash with L. Nunn top scoring on 28.

Warrington Seconds faired much better against Bramhall but they had to settle for a draw.

Warrington made 204 runs for the loss of five wickets.

Dyson provided the mainstay of the innings with a superb 88 while Ben Gray hit 30 off only 15 balls.

In reply, Warrington found wickets hard to come by on a low, flat track. Accurate seam bowling restricted Barmhall's run rate and the home side's innings finished on 161-5.

Warrington Thirds recovered from a nightmare start to see off the challenge offered by Oxton.

The home side made 81 without loss after only eight overs but Warrington refused to be downhearted. They kept plugging away and when Cockburn was introduced to the attack the whole complexion of the game changed.

He took six wickets for 37 runs and Warrington were able to reach their target of 181 with relative ease.

Danny Beardon and Nick Houghton laid a stable foundation before veterans Brian Boys and Cliff Houghton provided the finishing touches.

Warrington Fourths gave Irby's fourth string a torrid time and recorded a comprehensive win.

They made an electric start with Patterson, 42 and Gwatkin, 117, steering the team to a commanding score.

Patel and Croft then shone with the ball as Irby were skittled for only 96.

Warrington Fifths dominated their game with Bredbury St. Marks but they failed to provide the killing blow.

They posted an outstanding total of 262-3 with D. Quick, 97 not out, B. Boys, 50 not out and R. Duncan, 47, leading the way.

But they only managed to take nine wickets after the turnaround despite excellent fielding and catching by J. Batty and J. Ford.