Middlewich 182-7, Hale Barns 178

Murray Smith League

LEE Challinor hit a superb 85 not out as Middlewich secured a thrilling four-run victory at home to Hale Barns.

Acting Middlewich captain John Shepherd won the toss and elected to bat, and at the half-way point of the innings, his side had made 56 for the loss of both openers.

Challinor held the innings together with his solid knock, supported by D Simpson (33) and G Tomlinson Snr (21).

After 50 overs, Middlewich had reached 182-7, the pick of the bowling coming from D Malloy (3-46 from 16 overs).

In reply, Hale Barns reached 84 for the loss of only two wickets after 25 overs and looked well-placed. But after tight bowling from Shepherd and P Davies, S Price returned for a second spell and took five wickets in seven overs.

This set up a nail-biting last two overs, where Hale Barns needed 10 runs with three wickets left. Middlewich held their nerve best, as Hale Barns were bowled out for 178, Price finishing with figures of 5-44 off 14 overs.

MIDDLEWICH are at home to Cheadle this Saturday.

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