CHRIS Wade claimed his second hat-trick in two years as Darwen ripped up the Chorley Building Society Northern League formbook thanks to a stunning win over high-flying defending champions Fleetwood on Saturday.

The outstanding Wade, who last season claimed a three-in-three feat in a dramatic tie at Preston, was the headline grabber once again as he ran through the tail as Darwen piled on the runs before leaving the seasiders shell shocked.

After the early loss of Alan Kruger, Ammer Mirza (23) and Chris Clarke (32) got Darwen back on track before John Cordingley impressive 58 really gave the Towers momentum.

Wade then smashed four boundaries in a brisk 14 to help Darwen up to a more than useful 191-9 from their 50 overs – and just how useful that score was highlighted as soon as Fleetwood replied.

Mat Clarke went for one as he was caught off Neil Cordingley and when Mike Clinning was snared by John Cordingley’s second catch it was 4-2 and Fleetwood were in trouble.

Adam Parker and pro Ian Holland set about repairing the early damage and they took the score to 48 before Parker went for 17.

Then came the fun.

Fleetwood were still comfortable on 71-4 but they collapsed.

It was 98-7 wheb Wade had Holland caught by Gareth Cordingley for a boundary-laden 60 before he bowled Lee Jones and then sent Kieran McGann back for his hat-trick.

Sam Bell was last man out and Fleetwood had been rolled over for just 99 as Darwen celebrated a 15-point Saturday.

Chorley held on for a draw against league leaders Barrow as they closed on 128-8 after calling off their chase of 196-8 at Windsor Park.

And there was big scoring drama at Woodhill Lane as Morecambe professional Vishal Tripathi hit 121 not out and home skipper Lewis Edge made 112 not out.

Their efforts allowed Morecambe to declare in their game with bottom club Preston with the score on 264-2 after just 43 overs.

And then they bowled out Preston for just 96.

Lancaster maintained their impressive form as Ben Simm claimed eight wickets to help bowl Blackpool out for just 85 at Lune Road, while Leyland drew with Netherfield.