GOLBORNE produced two heroes for the valiant Bolton Association. But it wasn't enough in their inter-league challenge with the Central Lancashire League.

They were bowled out still needing 12 runs after the CLL's total of 203-7 was reduced to 186.

Golborne front-line bowler Ewan McCray took 1-12 off 10 overs - four of them maidens.

But the rest of the attack did not fare quite so well and the final total of 203-7 was always going to be a test.

Opener John Hopkins was the first to go, hitting a six in a brief knock of 12. He was followed by Brian Taylor, the victim of a disputed run out. But that brought Andy Mullaney to the crease - and the recovery began.

The Golborne man hit two sixes and eight fours in a knock of 51 with Simon Marsh adding 18 and Paul Robinson 19 to put them within sight of the target.

Unfortunately, it wasn't to be. They were bowled out for 174 with victory agonisingly close with two overs and a ball still remaining.

Back in the league Atherton consolidated top spot - but only just.

They were given a fright by Standish despite chasing only 102 for victory.

The Wigan side managed only 101 thanks to 4-32 from skipper Steve Walsh and Jonathan Fearick's 3-21. But getting the runs proved touch as Andy Cumbernatch took 6-37 as Atherton struggled.

Paul Brown kept them going with an unbeaten 23 and last man Walsh kept him company as Atherton managed 102-9. Phew!

Golborne cruised to a seven-wicket win after holding Daisy Hill to 152-8 (McCray 5-60). Andy Batterley's unbeaten 60 put them in charge of the batting.

Clifton (160-7) had too many runs on the board for Astley & Tyldesley, who were not helped by the run-out of pro Charles Dagnall.

They decided on safety and closed for a draw at 121-7.

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