WARRINGTON struggled to make the best of a wicket that was full of runs for the batsmen as they crashed to Urmston.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, a good partnership of 90 between Malcolm Agar, 36 and James Hughes, 44, put Warrington into a strong position.

But the middle order collapsed to 146-9 at the end of 50 overs with once again Paul Agar, 18 and David Lindop, 16, carrying the innings.

While Urmston took 40 overs to reach the target they were never in any danger of defeat and comfortably coasted home as Warrington struggled to take wickets.

Hostile opening bowling from the second team's Matt Caven and John Coneeny demolished the Birkenhead Park batting, with only youngster Clarkson showing any ability or desire to cope with the accurate and pacey attack.

Backed up by some fine catches, including a left-handed dive from Rob Stirrup, Birkenhead were dismissed for 73.

Openers Dyson and Baxter experienced no trouble at all in knocking off the runs in 25 overs.

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