FOUR hundred runs, last-over drama, spectacular individual performances, Saturday's game had the lot as Halsall came to Rainford.

The home side lost the toss, and after being put in found themselves in the unusual position of three wickets down with not a lot on the board. However, skipper Harrison, who had earlier suicidally run out opener Cook was joined at the crease by Hilton and the two proceeded to rebuild the innings. Hilton played the sheet anchor role scoring 46 while Harrison made amends for his earlier indiscretions by playing one of his best innings, his unbeaten 120 allowing Rainford to close their innings on 202/4.

In reply the Halsall openers made batting look easy as they cruised to 90 without loss in double quick time before Harrison made the breakthrough. From then on it was nip and tuck all the way with Finney always the main danger, his four-wicket haul tearing the heart out of the visitors batting, but in a game that was delicately poised right to the end no match winner emerged from either side as Halsall closed on 195-8. However Rainford can take satisfaction from the fact that their 14 bonus points virtually assures promotion back to the top flight for next season. Match sponsor was Beesley and Fildes. The Second XIs roller coaster season continued with a lacklustre defeat at Halsall. Only John Williams (47) and young Gareth Mills (31) put together worthwhile innings as the visitors could only muster 152.

Without a recognised attack Williams was forced to turn to veteran Ford and inexperienced youngster Fogarty to lead Rainfords reply with the ball, Ford bowling himself to a standstill with 1-58 from 24 overs while Fogarty chipped in with two wickets but the lack of any support proved vital as the home side passed Rainford's total for the loss of only four wickets.

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