ON Saturday Sutton lost a crucial game at Aigburth by nine wickets.

Sutton were asked to bat first on a lively wicket. Sutton's problem this year though has been their batting and this continued as Aigburth's professional Negi took 9-36 in bowling Sutton out for 73. Negi then hit 59 not out in his side's victory charge, with Danny Appleton taking the only victim.

The Second XI hosted Aigburth at New Street and were put in the field against a strong side. Aigburth rattled up 186-3 in only 36 overs and gave Sutton a generous declaration. Andy Rimmer 70 not out, Gary Greener 35, Eric Lanchin 25 not out and Kieron Barr 20 all batted superbly as Sutton reached their target to win by seven wickets.

On Sunday the Third XI hosted Billinge in a cup game. Batting first Billinge made 111 all out and Sutton were 112-6 with Andy Heaton 47 and youngster Danny Appleton 28.

This weekend's matches were sponsored by the ST Group.