GRAPPENHALL'S promotion hopes took a severe dent away to Marple.

The early loss of Paul Radage was overcome due to an excellent partnership between Dan Sisson and Mark Castell that reached 70.

Sisson was dismissed for 41 and Castell for 32, which meant the innings lost its impetus.

However, at 125-4 Grappenhall looked good but were then bowled out for 135.

Marple were rocked by pace bowling from Richard Hudd, who took three early wickets and pulled off an excellent run out.

Hudd and fellow-paceman Matt Fitchet, who bowled well without much luck, combined to reduce Marple to 50-4. At that stage Marple's fifth wicket partnership dug in bravely and batted Marple to victory by six wickets.

Top of the table Grappenhall Seconds were frustrated at home to Marple.

Grappenhall amassed an impressive 209-3, this mainly due to another splendid innings from veteran skipper Nick Sharp. Sharp struck an unbeaten century. He was supported by Martin Cooper, who hit 69.

Marple spent 54 overs blocking out for a draw and reached 146-8 at the close of play.

Sharp was the star with the ball and the bat, taking 4-28.

The Thirds needed to beat Alsager to avoid relegation.

Alsager posted a useful total of 180 all out.

Mark Tyreman and Steve Hartley took three wickets each for Grappenhall.

Mike Tilling and Hartley started well but their dismissal prompted a collapse.

Tyreman and 14-year-old Jordan Stacey almost clinched a win with 52 and 34 respectively.

Stacey caught the eye but was run out with two balls to spare and Grappenhall two wickets short of victory. Grappenhall were bowled out for 178.

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