HASLINGDEN maintained their lead at the top of the Lancashire League as they thumped Church by eight wickets at Bentgate.

Skipper Graham Knowles claimed 4-11 from eight overs, while Steve Dearden and Eddie Shah claimed three wickets each as Church were knocked over for just 84.

Pro Phil Hayes then smashed a rapid half-century as Haslingden strolled home in the 13th over.

Nelson were stunned by Ramsbottom at Seedhill.

The league’s form team restricted Ramsbottom to 141-9 but then Nelson failed to fire with the bat as Rammy pro Brenton Parchment tied them down and they were 93 all out.

Bacup won a low scoring game at Lanehead as they beat fellow strugglers Colne.

Colne were bowled out for 93 with Andy Spencer claiming four wickets before Bacup then got home by nine wickets.

Todmorden won easily to keep up their good run but there was a shock for Lowerhouse as they were stunned by Rawtenstall after bowling the Valley outfit out for just 128 and there was a win for Accrington over East Lancs.

The day’s other game saw Enfield win at derby rivals Rishton.

Accrington 162-9 East Lancs 154 Bacup 97-1 Colne 93 Haslingden 85-2 Church 84 Lowerhouse 116 Rawtenstall 128 Nelson 93 Ramsbottom 141-9 Rishton 151 Enfield 226 Todmorden 201 Burnley 80