ELTON continued their charge towards the Bolton Association title with yet another 20 point victory, this time over Astley and Tyldesley.

The title race hots up with Darcy Lever, Atherton and Walshaw still hanging onto Elton's tailcoats, so the victory was crucial.

Astley and Tyldesley batted first on what looked like a firm batting track and despite Rob Bennett's knock of 63, the Wigan side - without a professional - could only muster 132 for 8.

Elton paid man Dexter Fitton earned his corn, finishing with four wickets for just 32 runs.

The Leigh Lane side made light work of the chase. Rashid Riaz got them off to a solid start with a grafted 25.

However, after Riaz departed the entertainment really began as Fitton despatched the Gin Pit side's bowling efforts to all parts of the ground.

Supported by an unbeaten 48 from Chris Read, Fitton reached 54 not out as Elton crossed the line with consummate ease.

Elton face a tough test this weekend as they face last year's runners up Little Hulton then have the opportunity to put Darcy Lever out of the title race on Sunday.

The club's second team won their first silverware since 1998 when they defeated Astley and Tyldesley by six runs in a low scoring contest.

Steven Lomax top scored with 37, as Elton reached a measly 115 all out.

However Andy Chappell and 16 year old Phil Donnelly ripped through the Wiganers' batting line up, skittling them for 109.

WALSHAW were hit by the Clifton 'revenge squad' on Saturday when they were unable to repeat their Cross Cup final victory over the Swinton side.

Yet it all started so well for the Sycamore Road side who, put in to bat, found runs easy to come by.

With skipper Bret Collins (70) and Danny Hornby (46) leading the way they put on a formidable 233 for 9 at the end of their 48 overs.

The visitors never looked likely to reach that total and, in the end, were content to bat out the overs for the loss of five wickets, frustrating Walshaw in their quest for league points.