THE bubble finally burst for Haydock as both teams suffered their first defeats in three games.

The firsts were beaten in a real cracker at Halsall. Batting first Adrian Barr, Rob Burke and Tony Derbyshire all hit good scores as Haydock reached a formidable score at tea.

After the interval the Haydock bowlers got a good start taking early wickets, Adrian Barr was very quick and with Dave Burrows at the other end the Halsall batsmen were under pressure.

But the Halsall batsmen started to play their shots and in a game which went down to the wire Halsall took the points.

The seconds played host to Norley Hall and suffered a five wicket defeat as they were surprised by the opposition. Batting first skipper Alan Lever led from the front.

Alan left his mark in a bowler-dominated session with a fine 33, when a half-century beckoned.

Steve Webster blasted 25 before being undone by a yorker. Chris Carlisle normally assured could not get going although a good 18 helped the cause and with Gareth Bourhill 17 making a welcome return Haydock reached 127 all out N Cullen 5-39.

The Haydock bowlers tried to defend this total and as quick wickets fell to give them hope. I Brown troubled the batsmen from the start with a good spell of spin bowling while Steve Plant tied the batsmen down with some accurate bowling.

However, P Barton (57 not out) batted well and helped Norley to victory as they reached 129-5.

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