GRAPPENHALL returned to winning ways on Saturday in their Cheshire County League match at Alderley Edge.

Batting first on an excellent batting pitch the Alderley Edge batsmen were unable to capitalise on a bright start from their openers.

Grappenhall bowlers Ian Jackson and Neil Titchard took advantage of some sloppy batting, with Jackson taking four wickets and Titchard three as Alderley Edge were forced to bat 55 overs in order to post a decent total of 179-9.

In reply, Grappenhall lost both openers cheaply before Will Sharp and Ian Jackson took the attack to the home side.

Jackson made a superb 63 and was well supported at the end by Nick Sharp, who helped step up the tempo by hitting a brisk 41 as Grappenhall won with three overs to spare.

A much understrength Grappenhall took on Hyde in the quarter-finals of the League Cup and put up a creditable display.

Steve Muncaster's superb century helped Grappenhall to reach 214 in their allotted overs as he punished any loose bowling and played several classic hook shots in his innings of 102.

But Hyde reached the victory target with three overs to spare despite a valiant effort in the field from Grappenhall.

The second team picked up a much needed victory at home to Toft in their Cheshire County League match.

Batting first, Toft scored steadily and reached a respectable 190-6 in their 50 overs. Best bowler for Grappenhall was Chris Harrison, who took three wickets.

In reply, all the Grappenhall batsmen made good contributions, but it was a superb innings from opener Andy Sisson which laid the foundations for the victory.

Sisson hit an unbeaten 67 as Grappenhall reached 191-5 and won the match.

Grappenhall Thirds also notched up another excellent victory at home to Alsager.

Batting first, they reached 187 in their overs after an excellent innings of 77 from Andy Wright. They then bowled like demons to dismiss Alsager for 120 and win the match.

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