RAIN left Morecambe five points behind Darwen at the top of the Northern Premier League - just two weeks before the sides meet in what could be the most important game of the season.

Lancaster, meanwhile, took six points from their drawn game with Leyland Motors at Lune Road.

Morecambe were at Kendal, and were batting well at 67 for the loss of just one wicket before the rain intervened.

Phil Dennison made an unbeaten 35 while Ramesh Powar was unbeaten on 29.

Lancaster, meanwhile, put on a total of 192 for 9, batting first against Leyland Motors.

Craig Atkinson made 59 while professional Rennier Munnik hit 47.

Leyland Motors professional Atif Ashraf kept his side in the game with an impressive, unbeaten 79 while David Makinson made an unbeaten 44 as Motors clung on for a total of 174 for 5.

Lancaster's seconds suffered a rare defeat, but still top the table by 10 points ahead of their Morecambe counterparts.

Next week's action sees Morecambe host St Annes and Lancaster make the short trip up the M6 to face Netherfield.

Both teams must be hoping that the sun shines on them as they bid to climb the league.