PAUL Alcock sent Northwich on their way to another win beating Port Sunlight by 59 runs, which improves their position in the Meller Braggins Division Three.

Alcock opened the innings and set the tone with his first half century at Moss Farm, hitting 11 fours in his 61.

Andy Gerrard, Ant Shaw, Nigel Goolding and Mike Brandon all made solid contributions as Northwich posted an impressive total of 203-8 in their 45 overs.

Matt Lightburn (21-2) took a couple of early wickets as the visitors chased the target.

Another one fell to a fine piece of fielding by captain John O'Sullivan.

A fourth wicket partnership of 68 led to a change of bowling which saw young spinner Lee Evans (37-3) and Ant Shaw (2-2), bring the game back towards Northwich.

The visitors then attempted to hang on for a draw.

But the return of Mike Brandon (24-2) into the attack saw him hit the stumps twice to finish off the resistance and earn Northwich a maximum 25 points win.

l Meanwhile at the start of Northwich 2nds and Port Sunlight 2nds' game, the two were separated by just a point at the top of Meller Braggins Cheshire Cricket League Division C.

But Northwich imposed their authority to open up a clear lead at the top of the table.

Nick Shaw did the damage, taking 42-2 as Port Sunlight were dismissed for just 125.

He received good support from Mark O'Neil (21-2) and Adam Davies (15-2).

The Northwich reply stuttered to 24-4 before two youngsters steadied the innings and shared the match winning partnership.

Martin East and Glinoj Cherain put on an unbeaten 102 in 15 overs to secure 126-4, winning by six wickets.

Cherian made 23 and East a magnificent 78.