MATT Lightburn rescued Northwich 1sts after another batting collapse on Saturday.

A red-hot spell of bowling - he finished with 5-42 - helped his side defend a modest total of 150 in the searing heat at Castrol.

Paul Alcock hit 28 as the visitors pummelled 44 from the first seven overs after being asked to bat.

But he was deprived of support from his team mates.

Northwich duly wobbled to 86-6 and have veteran Simon Jones (37) to thank for guiding them to 150 at the close of the innings.

In reply, Castrol threatened to win at a canter as they rushed to 82-1.

Teenagers Lee Evans and Scott Hayes turned the game back towards Northwich, claiming two wickets apiece to reduce their opponents to 85-5.

Lightburn then signed off by snapping a stump as Castrol were skittled for 138 on their way to a 12-run defeat.

Northwich claimed the maximum 23 points as they continue to come to terms with life in the Meller Braggins league.

l NORTHWICH 3rds recorded a remarkable three-wicket win at home to Port Sunlight 3rds.

Fielding a side featuring no fewer than five debutants, including two U11s players, the hosts restricted Sunlight to 141-8.

Veteran slow bowler Mike Eddison weighed in with three wickets, while Stuart Plant claimed two.

Mike McDonough (74) led the response and he was supported by a mixture of youth and experience at the other end before Paul Miles hit the winning run.

Northwich 3rds play at home to Appleton 3rds on Saturday.