PILKINGTON Spartans were given a run for their money when they took on Grasshoppers in the St Helens Rounders League.

Jean Thompson's side is riding high at the top of Division One but were forced to dig deep to secure the points from this game. Both sides batted well with Grasshoppers' Kath Northover, Emma Pritchard, Carol Whittaker and Annemarie Nacey getting on the scoresheet.

When Jean Thompson scored a rounder with her first bat things looked good for Spartans. Jean's batting form was supplemented by her fast, varied bowling, and with accurate throwing from backstop Norah Critchley to first post Eileen McDonagh, they made an effective triangle. More good strikes from Janet Mayer, Sandra Moore and Janet Thomas gave Spartans the half-rounder win they ultimately deserved.

Grasshoppers also lost to United Glass in another close match. UG owed much to Kay Dillon whose bowling and hitting formed the basis for her side's victory. Kay linked well with backstop Jackie Kenny and first post Sue Sheffield and good close fielding by UG kept Grasshoppers score down, despite good rounders from Annemarie Nacey and Kath Northover yet again.

Results: Pilkington Spartans 14 Grasshoppers 14, Grasshoppers 17 United Glass 17.