SUTTON'S batsmen found some of their form on Saturday.

But their hopes of victory were ended by the weather.

Entertaining Runcorn, they recorded 162-7. Dave Hodgson battled for 20 overs against the Aussie professional, Harrison, with solid support from Bri Wearden and Phil Kelly.

Although the start was slow the innings accelerated rapidly when the quickie was removed and a cracking 51 not out by Mike Rimmer supported by another thunderous 25 by Andy Brogan saw Sutton to their declaration.

A quick wicket after tea proved fruitless as a downpour turned the ground into a lake and forced the umpire to call off the game.

The seconds got back on the winning trail with a super win at Runcorn. Sutton's bowlers kept it tight and forced the home side to declare after 50 overs with 156-7.

Skipper Jeff Pye was back among the wickets with the reliable Stu Rimmer.

When Sutton batted Steve Wearden made a welcome return to his best form with a superb 81 not out which laid the foundations.

Dave Fargher and Luke Tunstall chipped in with good knocks and Sutton completed an encouraging win with four wickets and three overs in hand.

All at Sutton were saddened to learn of the passing of Bill Jones, the Rainhill president.

Bill was a regular, most welcome visitor to New Street as a respected umpire.

A club spokesman sadi: "We pass our sincere condolences to Bill's family and our friends at Rainhill CC."

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