A low-scoring thriller saw 2019 champions Denton St Lawrence claw to victory by seven runs on Saturday.
Prestwich 1sts had dismissed the Tameside outfit for 135, for whom an unbeaten 47 from Matthew Sonczak was key. Prestwich’s sub pro Thikshila De Silva claimed an impressive 5 for 38, and Nathan Bailey’s 2-19 return from 9 overs continued his good start to the season.
But the loss of the in-form James Wharmby off the first ball was the worst possible start, and despite a mini-recovery from skipper Marty Walters (19) and De Silva (21) for the third wicket, wickets fell at regular intervals, until Tom Gibson and Andy Bradley came together at 97-8. They took the side within sight of victory until Bradley (16) was given l.b.w. and Gibson – top scoring with 29 – was the last man out caught on the edge.
On Sunday, the 1sts travelled to Garstang in the first round of the prestigious Lancashire Cup, and showed their accuracy with ball in hand, by winning a bowl-out 3-1.
The rain wiped out the game after Prestwich were in the midst of building a substantial total, making 180 for 3 off 35 overs when the match was halted. Not for the first time this season, the opening partnership of Wharmby (83) and Walters (40) had flourished, rattling up 121.
Faced with another stump-hitting exercise, Alex Taylor did hit the wickets but also the keeper as his beamer was ruled out! However, Danny Pawson was twice on target, and Nathan Bailey struck once, to set up a second round tie at home to Ramsbottom on June 13.
The 2nd XI league game was washed out for the third consecutive week. However, they were in action on Sunday in the 2nd XI Cup, where they lost to Bradshaw 2nds.
The Bolton side racked up 164-7 off 30 overs, despite a return of 4-19 from Steven Ritchie.
Lewis Smith cracked 73 in reply, but Prestwich 2nds fell 13 runs short
The 4th team played a 25-over friendly at Over Peover where Thomas Orrell retired unbeaten on 50 and Sam Regan struck 48. The home side reached the target with a few balls to spare.
First teams Silva lining
