THE Inter-League clash between the Lancashire League and the Central Lancashire League is delicately poised as play resumes at Middleton Cricket Club tonight (6.30pm).
Put into bat, the Central Lancs League set a formidable total of 189 from their 40 overs.
After an opening stand between Peter Deakin and Ken Howard of 36, Milnrow's Howard then led the charge, hammering eight 4s and one 6 in his 98-ball 69.
Werneth's John Punchard chipped in with 24 late on before he was run out as the Central Lancs League finally closed on 188-7.
East Lancs pair Phil Mooney (2-41) and Nasir Iqbal (1-19) were the pick of the seven bowlers used by skipper Jack Simpson of Haslingden.
Lomas blow (25 Jun 1998)
EAST Lancs skipper Mark Lomas smashed a superb 74 but it was not enough to give the Lancashire League victory in their inter-league clash with the Central Lancashire League at Middleton CC.
Set 189 for victory when played resumed last night, the Lancashire League got off to a disastrous start when Nick Riley was caught and bowled off his first delivery.
Jack Simpson and Lomas then masterminded a recovery with a second wicket partnership of 55 before Simpson (30) was trapped lbw.
Lomas continued to impress with some well timed strokes, but once Paul Garaghty (1) and Russell Whalley (2) went cheaply, the Lancashire League's chances started to fade.
Once Lomas was out for an 81-ball 74, which included seven 4s and four 6s, only Jez Hope (23) offered any real resistance.
They were finally dismissed for 169 off the final ball of their 40 overs as the Central Lancs League completed a comfortable 19 run victory.
Other News
EAST Lancs have been drawn at home to Bacup in the semi finals of the Lees Brewery Challenge Trophy.
In the other semi final Haslingden will entertain Rochdale at Bentgate. The ties are to be played on Saturday July 25.