Maghull’s up turn in form comes to abrupt end with St Helens loss

MAGHULL’S two-game winning streak came to an end last weekend as they lost to St. Helens just a week after defeating their opponents in Ray Tyler Cup action.

Paul Walters’ side headed to Ruskin Drive in good form after successive victories but faced an uphill battle on Saturday after losing the toss and being instructed to field first. The hosts made good use of the wicket despite being reduced to 55-3 at one stage, with wicketkeeper Daniel Roberts crafting his way to a patient 89 from 148 balls. Roberts was supported by opener Ryan Donnelly (22) and James Davies (22) early on, but when Jacob Cavanagh (3) was dismissed, St. Helens were 134-7.

Liam Gaskell then acted as the perfect foil for Roberts, with the number nine scoring 32 from 43 balls before Mohammad Nawaz finally clipped his bails.

With the damage done, skipper Phil Murgatroyd declared on a hefty total of 203-8 from 54 overs.

Murgatroyd himself opened the bowling for his side and sent opener Walters and Declan Devine packing early on.

With Maghull reeling on 59-5 at one stage, it was left to all-rounder Anthony Molloy (32) and Cam Lawrenson (22) to steady the ship, dragging the visitors to three figures.

Lawrenson was the first to be dismissed by Liam Gaskell soon after, however, as the innings folded in on itself.

Maghull’s final four batsmen offered just seven runs between them, with Walters men all out for 131 inside just 31 overs.

They have two chances to put things right this weekend as Alder visit Old Hall Field in league competition on Saturday before Sutton arrive the next day to contest the third round of the Ray Tyler Cup.