Lancashire miss-out on third final showing

MATTHEW JONES

THE Lancashire League representative team who have won the Inter League Tournament twice in the last two years lost to the Palace Shield in the semi-final at Great Harwood.

The Lancashire League representative team batted first, openers Stuart Crabtree of Accrington and Church’s Levi Wolfenden put on 40 for the first wicket until a collapse led by J Hogarth (2-11) and A Mason (4-9) saw Lancashire League fall to 62-8.

However, Accrington professional Ockert Erasmus, pictured, (31 not out) and Lowerhouse’s Dom Stuart (18 not out) put on 40 in the last five overs as the representative team posted 102-8.

In reply, Palace Shield openers Walling (30) and Thistlewhistle (53) put on 77 for the first wicket, but Matt Walker recorded figures of 3-21 and Erasmus 1-15 as Lancashire League took the game down to the last over with Palace Shield requiring four to win.

Walker picked up two wickets, but Marsh (1 not out) and Howard (2 not out) added to three to leave the teams tied after 20 overs.

Palace Shield however did progress to the final after losing fewer wickets as they finished on 102-6. Church’s Ali

In the second semi- final, the Northern League beat the Ribblesdale League to progress to the final after bowling them out for 90. Church’s Ali Sartaj impressed as he took 1-23 off four.

The Palace Shield then beat the Northern League in the final as they chased down 120 in less than 13 overs.