RADCLIFFE marched into the Wood Cup semi-finals on the back of impressive performances from Stuart Kelley, Nick Kennedy and Steve Dearden at the weekend.

Their win over Oldham was the highlight of a good weekend for the Racecourse men -- and it could have been even better had it not been for the weather.

Looking set for victory against Werneth on Saturday, the heavens opened, forcing the players from the field and leaving Radcliffe frustrated with a draw.

The home side had scored 165 in their first innings, opener Cruse hitting 64 and Simpson weighing in with a handy half century.

Two wickets from Dearden and one each from Shah and Holt put Werneth in serious trouble at 57 for 4 from 24 overs and the visitors were rocking until the rain started and the match was abandoned.

The following day Radcliffe did chalk up that impressive Wood Cup victory, beating Oldham to move into the last four.

Oldham batted first and scored 135 for 9 from their 50 overs.

Best bowlers for Radcliffe were Kelley and Kennedy who finished with excellent figures of 10 overs, five maidens, seven runs and three wickets.

Chasing that fairly small target, Radcliffe eased home quite comfortably, Dearden top scoring with 31 and Simpson (29) and Jones (25no) adding useful contributions to secure that semi-final spot.

STAND had a lucky escape in their clash at Rochdale after rain prevented what seemed like being a heavy defeat.

Despite the best efforts of the Rochdale groundstaff the match was abandoned and the visitors left with two points.

Stand had started well. The two openers made a quick start, Brad Flegg in particular on form and he top scored with 55 runs.

Unfortunately though there weren't too many other contributions as the Rochdale bowlers pinned back the batsmen with some tight bowling.

In reply the home team set off quickly in pursuit of the lowly target and they especially eager to wrap things up because of the grey clouds forming overhead. However, with 55 runs still required and eight wickets in hand the rain started and the match was called off.

UNSWORTH's game at Heywood was another hit by the weather and both teams had to settle for two points.