A STUNNING late-order collapse meant Appleton slipped to their first defeat of the season.

They seemed well set at 90-5 at Heaton Mersey on Saturday, but skipper Alex Wright’s dismissal for 37 sparked an alarming loss of five wickets for just six runs.

After being dismissed for 96, Aamir Aslam took four wickets with the ball but the hosts reached their target to secure a four-wicket win.

Elsewhere, the seconds were held to a draw as neighbours Stretton hung on at the death.

Reza Zaidi smashed 86 as Appleton ran up 202-8 at Lyons Lane, but the visitors just about survived on 139-9 despite four wickets from Dave Sujith.

The thirds enjoyed a thrilling six-run victory over Trafford Metrovics, while the fourths drew away to Bowden Vale.