EARLESTOWN snatched victory from Singlehurst to stay top of the WLCL.

Asked to bat first on an uncertain wicket, the batsmen struggled against the uneven bounce.

With the score on 26-7 things looked bleak, but P. Jay (20) and Bob Williams (20) took the total to a modest 78.

In reply, Singlehurst started well but when M. Cheshire caught the opener off J. Barron, the home side's nerve began to falter.

Wickets fell at regular intervals just as the home side were in the position to take control, but with the wicket as it was anything could happen.

When asked, M. Cheshire produced a fine display of bowling, the first runs being taken in his sixth over, and when he trapped L. Sewell leg before, Earlestown could sniff victory.

Amd when B. Williams took the final wicket, aided by a stooping catch at first slip by Cheshire, the home side finished on 77, one behind the Earlestown total.

On Sunday the youngsters travelled to Spring View and were beaten by a useful team containing some Lancashire Colts. The only plus point was the batting, in particular G. Foster who top scored with 68 not out, the total finished on 149-7 in reply to the Wiganers' massive 321-5.

The under-15s were involved in two games this week, winning both to put them in a position to chase leaders Leigh for the title.

Norley Hall were the visitors to Earle Street but went away pointless after failing to reach Earlestown's total of 86. D. Edwards excelled at bowling this week.

And Friday's trip to Glazebury was won again by good bowling and fielding, all the players playing parts in the victory. All games sponsored by Newton Blinds.