Caverswall on the up after win over Sandyford

CAVERSWALL seconds were left smiling on Saturday as they won promotion from NSSCL Division Six. With fellow hopefuls Stafford losing, Caverswall’s easy home win against Sandyford ensured they will join Ashcombe Park in leaping up to Division Five. Craig Barcroft set them on their way with a fine haul of 5-5 as Sandyford were bowled out for 100. Ben Turnock and Philip Robins made 33 and 29 respectively. Ben Gorton then struck 57 not out and Glen Moore made an undefeated 27 to steer Caverswall to a ninewicket win. Leaders Ashcombe Park ran out six-wicket winners on their trip to Moddershall & Oulton fifths. Jake Johnson (5-38) and Joe Alcock (3-11) were in fine form with the ball to dismiss the Modd men for 119. Dean Tooth led the resistance with 51. Ashcombe Park always had penty in the tank in reply and Chris Bradstreet’s 59 not out completed the deal. Moddershall & Oulton fourths were also beaten as they were defeated by Oakamoor. Matthew Carnwell was at the forefront of the Oakamoor batting effort as he made 55 to lead them to 147 all out. Ian Stretton and Matthew Wright claimed 3-19 and 3-30 respectively. That target was out of range for the home side, though, as Harry Smith grabbed 5-8 to bowl them out for 88. Ben Clegg topscored with 22. Stafford’s promotion aspirations came to an end after they were thrashed at home by Leycett. Stafford never recovered from being reduced to 25-7, and although Sam Haynes made 26, they were dismissed for 67. Liam Bedson (4-39) and Martyn smith (3-19) did the bulk of the damage. Leycett wasted little time in knocking off the runs, losing just one wicket, as Tom Warburton finished on 31 not out.