RAINFORD had to settle for a draw as they continued their promotion push against league leaders Litherland on Saturday.

Winning the toss, skipper Harrison invited the visitors to bat and then rolled out the big guns in the shape of Finney and Schofield, but unfortunately for the home side, several chances didn't go to hand as Litherland race to 75-1 from only 15 overs.

Harrison then put the brakes on with some fine swing bowling but this only resulted in the visitors batting out their full 50 overs in reaching 215 all out, with Finney, Schofield and the skipper himself all among the wickets.

The Rainford reply faltered early on with the departure of Cook, but Calland and Dalrymple set about the visitors' attack with gusto. Wickets, though, fell at regular intervals as the home side pushed for victory. With only 36 overs in reply, time was always against the home side and once Harrison departed they were left with no option but to shut up shop on 160-8. Match ball sponsor was S Woods.

The Second XI travelled to runaway leaders Highfield and although they suffered a heavy defeat skipper John Williams must have been proud of his young charges. The home side declared on 180-6 to claim maximum batting points with Ian Donnelly, starring with the ball claiming four wickets and all the fielders playing their part against a strong batting line up.

The Rainford reply stuttered to just 111 all out with only Williams offering any resistance, the skipper carrying his bat for 48.

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