MIDDLEWICH CC 1sts have won more matches already this year than the whole of the last campaign.

And they continued to improve on Saturday with a resounding 47-run win away at basement boys Congleton.

Batting first on a flat wicket, Chris Broomfield (56no) led the way as the visitors posted 226-7 in 50 overs.

Martin Dawson (48) and Chris Ainley (43) also played their part.

Congleton opener Tom Blease (92no) carried his bat as his team put up a fight, but he suffered for a lack of support.

Keith Hallam (5-59) produced a season best spell as the home side were bowled out for 179.

Experienced bowler John Shephard (2-43) also enjoyed success with the ball as Middlewich picked up the maximum 25 points for the fourth time this season.

They lie third in the table after eight matches, just 11 points adrift of early pacesetters Sale.

Middlewich now move on to host Upton on Saturday.