Bottom of the table Preston continued to struggle as they were bowled out for just 52 at Fleetwood.

Preston were always going to be in trouble when they lost their first three batsmen for ducks.

They were in even deeper trouble as they then had six batsmen out for just six runs.

Only when captain Johnstone came to the crease did they provide any resistance. He top scored with 17.

Fleetwood, last season's champions, lost six wickets before they reached their target.

Leyland lost by 156 runs at Fox Lane to champions elect St Annes who continued their unbeaten run.

St Annes, who boast former Lancashire all rounder Ian Austin, posted 259-5 with Austin making 62 and Australian professional Shane Harwood top scoring on 63.

This was always going to be a tough target for Leyland but they gave it a go with only opener Dunk, from the top seven batsmen failing to reach double figures.

Pearson with 26 was top scorer for Leyland as eventually the home team fell off the pace and lost wickets at regular intervals.

They were eventually bowled out for 103. Shane Harwood took two wickets for 10 from nine overs which included seven maidens.

Leyland Motors faced Kendal at Sandy Lane and were beaten by 125 runs. Kendal batted first with their two openers, Ullah and Little, sharing a stand of 206 for the first wicket.

Kendal declared on 230-2 in what was a formidable display of batting.

Motors never really got into their stride and only Makinson (22) and Richardson (21) offered any resistance as the home team were bowled out for 105. Howarth with five for 35 was the pick of the Kendal bowlers.