Congleton can decide destiny (From Warrington Guardian)

Congleton can decide destiny

CONGLETON CC will be hoping their season run-in yields big points to stave off relegation.

It's been a tough 2005 with just three wins, but their Division Two future is still in their own hands.

Last Saturday's home tie against Brooklands was a washout along with the entire programme, so Congleton have five left to stop the rot.

Fourth-bottom, they should be favourites to stay up with a 20-point cushion splitting them from Middlewich and Tattenhall, both of whom Congleton must still play.

It's home advantage with Sale arriving tomorrow.

The 2nd XI bounced back from defeat to book a cup final.

Losing by seven wickets at Brooklands on soggy Saturday, lofty opponents Neston suffered the consequences 24 hours later.

An upset was on the cards when Congleton reduced the Premier Division side to 53 for 7.

But number eight Yardley came in to spare their blushes with an unbeaten 75 to get Neston up to 197.

Crumbling on 136 for 7 with only nine overs left, skipper Paul Beaumont hit 88 not out to offer hope and found support from Mark Spanton (14). Sean Cardall thumped four to seal victory with only one more ball to go.

Big home support is wanted when the 2nds battle Premier side Hyde, this Sunday at 1pm.