ST Helens 1st XI slipped to a nine wicket defeat at home to Formby on Saturday.

Batting first, St Helens posted a score of 140 all out in 49.5 overs with Craig Horabin (30) and Ian Lawless (52) top scoring.

In reply Formby hit 141 for the loss of just one wicket with Kiwi James Marshall hitting an unbeaten 90 not out.

St Helens had a more productive day when they took on Wigan in the National Knockout and posted a magnificent 236 for 8 in 45 overs.

Top scorers were N. Hull (42), S. Kenny (37) R. Burrows (29) C. Horabin (27) with the other batsmen making valuable contributions.

Wigan reached 224 for 9 with G. Sheppard's 3-42 helping St Helens to a 12 run victory.

This Saturday, June 9 St Helens travel to Fleetwood Hesketh and the following day entertain Kearsley in the National knockout area semi-final.

Last Saturday the 2nd XI went down to a eight wicket defeat at Highfield. Batting first St Helens were dismissed for 105 with David Lowe (34) and Phil Mitchell (25) top scoring. In reply Highfield hit 109-2, Kenny and Lowe taking a wicket each.

St Helens seconds fared better in their Chester Cup tie at home to Formby. The visitors batted first and were all out for 151 with Robert Supria taking 5 for 36 and Dave Lowe taking 1-15.

In reply St Helens hit 152 for 7 with an impressive half century from Karl Boardman (54) being assisted by good knocks from Jeff Gore (18) and Phil Mitchell (17).

Requiring 16 runs from the last eight balls, St Helens won with five balls to spare thanks to two huge sixes from Alan Sheppard.