AFTER being unable to dismiss Toft’s last pair in a thrilling finish to Saturday’s Cheshire County League 'derby' at Booth’s Park, Oulton Park currently lie a modest third, 41 points behind leaders Nantwich, at the season’s half-way mark.

Thanks to a fine innings of 117 from Cheshire and ex-Toft star Rob Sehmi, Oulton rattled up 243-6 from their 55 overs.

Toft replied with a spirited 228-9, with Henry Hughes scoring 73.

Ben Gibbon took 4-58 but the home side's last pair held out for three overs.

Leaders Nantwich beat bottom club Cheadle by nine wickets to reach a total of 199 points, while second-placed Didsbury are on 179 points after winning by three wickets at Neston.

Bollington top Division One by 26 points after a tense one-run win at second-placed Brooklands.

Lindow lead Division Two by 23 points following a five wickets win at Barrow.

RESULTS:

Premier League: Hyde 152 lost to Chester 153-4; Nantwich 82-1 beat Cheadle 78; Neston 182 lost to Didsbury 185-7; Oxton 182 lost to Widnes 198-8; Timperley 135 lost to Alderley Edge 136-2; Toft 228-8 drew with Oulton Park 243-6.

First Division: Bowdon 142-1 beat Marple 139; Bramhall 192-7 drew with Sale 162-8; Brooklands 140 lost to Bollington 141; Grappenhall 132-2 beat Urmston 131; Warrington 199 beat Davenham 140.

Second Division: Ashton on Mersey 52 lost to Stockport Georgians 55-3; Barrow 67 lost to Lindow 70-5; Christleton 172-4 beat Upton 167; Hale Barns 120 beat Alvanley 84; Romiley 105-2 beat Mobberley 104; Stockport 96 lost to Haslington 98-3.

Meanwhile, Cheshire’s next match in the National Counties 50 overs Trophy is against neighbouring Staffordshire at Knypersley on Sunday, 11am start.