THERE was a pulsating finish at Vernon Road where St Annes failed to win a close encounter with Chorley on Monday (May 3).

St Annes captain Russell Bradley won the toss and put Chorley in to bat.

James Fazackerley, brother of the England football coach Derek, top scored with 92.

He faced 124 balls and hit 10 fours as Chorley finished on 221-7.

Left arm spinner Joe Davies was the pick of the St Annes bowlers, taking 4 for 73 from 15 overs.

St Annes always made an effort to go for the runs and their South African professional Dave Callaghan hit a magnificent 112.

He faced 96 balls, batted 121 minutes and hit 3 sixes and 12 fours.

Gareth Evans was run out on the last ball looking for two runs to tie the match, with St Annes on 220-7.

This Saturday (May 8) sees St Annes at home to Morecambe who suffered a crushing 122 runs defeat at Parkside Road against Netherfield.

Providing St Annes play to their full potential they should win.

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