Grappers cannot hold off the drop (From Warrington Guardian)

Grappers cannot hold off the drop

10:53am Thursday 22nd September 2011 in Cricket

A FEISTY Grappenhall side forfeited their ECB Premier League status by the narrowest of margins despite a 25-point win against fourth-placed Oxton at Broad Lane.

Steve Tichard's side knew they needed results to go their way if they were to survive, with Alderley Edge's win meaning Grappers drop back down to Division One.

But the hosts delivered a fine performance on the day, with the tight bowling of Titchard, 4 for 39, and Guy Emmett, 3 for 31, meaning Oxton were dismissed for 167.

A couple of early wickets shook the boat, but innings from Tony Hurdley, 69, and Liam Parkinson, 41, put them back on track and they passed the total with an over to spare.

By then their hopes of survival had disappeared after hearing the scores in other matches, but their desire to play at the top level will stand them in good stead for another promotion chase next season.

The Third team enjoyed a better weekend, securing top level cricket in the Third XI Division after a five-wicket win over Nantwich.

After the excellent Nantwich opener was forced to retire on 84 with an injury, Grappers kicked on and sent the visitors packing for 209.

Some early wickets shook the confidence of the young teasm, but brilliant knocks from Titchard and Muttock took them both past the 50 mark and they thirds cruised to victory with one over and five wickets to spare.