Skelmersdale’s fate sealed while Rainford avoid rain to move to top

OVERNIGHT rain and further heavy showers on Saturday meant little cricket was played in the First Division of the Liverpool Gin Liverpool Competition, but Rainford lost little time in moving to the top of the table with the ninewicket victory which also relegated Skelmersdale.

Stephen Birkett took 7-24 as Skem were dismissed for 54 in only 21.2 overs and that target was overhauled in just 11 overs by the Rainford batsmen, Paul Farrar making 36 not out off 32 balls.

In the battle for the First Division title, Rainford now lead Highfield by six points after completing the very quick win which allowed them to avoid the downpours affecting other games.

At Newton-le-Willows, Birkenhead Park were 137-5 off 50 overs when the rain arrived while Hightown St Mary’s were 54-5 at Highfield when the cricketers were forced back to the pavilion.

In the other game, Orrell Red Triangle beat Fleetwood Hesketh by 57 runs. The visitors posted 130-9 declared in 43 overs before dismissing the Sea Cop side for 73 in only 16.3 overs.

With one week left in the league season all the promotion and relegation issues in the middle tier have been decided but Highfield will still fight it out with Rainford for the league title.

Rainford visit Prestatyn this Saturday while Highfield travel to Skelmersdale.