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Battle of the top-two as Northop Hall tackle Ainsdale

Battle of the top-two as Northop Hall tackle Ainsdale

Leader Live18-07-2025
There's a major battle of the top-two in store and it is sure to go a long way to deciding who will eventually take the title. Northop Hall, now up to second in the rankings, are excited for their trip to league leaders Ainsdale.
Both sides have mainly been dealing in triumphs this season and of their combined 24 games, 19 of them have resulted in wins. Only three of them have been defeats, so there will be little to choose between the high-flying rivals.
'I would probably say it's a mustn't lose game,' said Northop Hall skipper Ben Slater. 'It will be a good game.'
It's a three-way race for the two promotion spots. Ainsdale find themselves 21 points clear of Hall, who are just five points ahead of third-placed Caldy.
Caldy suffered a four-wicket loss to Prescot & Odyssey last time out to drop out of the promotion places.
'To be fair to them (Caldy), they have had a good run,' added Slater.
'I think that was their first defeat. You're never going to go a full season without losing a game.'
Meanwhile, Hall go into the match on the back of a thumping 113-run win over Norley Hall.
Jac Kennedy (61), Slater (55 not out) and Andrew Watkin (42) made valuable contribution's in Hall's 235 for four declared in 49 overs.
The bowlers were tasked with finishing off the job and they did so in style to dismiss the visitors for 122. Not for the first time this season, the bulk of the plaudits went the way of Paul Jenkins with his six for 34 return.
Slater, who heralded another 'bowling masterclass' from Jenkins, added: 'We batted really well as a team. Andy and Jac added 99 for the first wicket.
'That makes the game miles easier for those coming in afterwards.'
Matteo Evans-Ford and Liam Evans-Ford will be added to the Northop Hall side.
Northop Hall Seconds will look to make the most of home comforts as they entertain Ainsdale Seconds.
Chirk have strengthened their ranks ahead of a free weekend of action in the Shropshire League.
They have secured the services of Matty Lawrenson, from North Wales League Marchwiel and Wrexham. Lawrenson is a talented bowling all-rounder and is sure to bring energy, control and valuable experience to the squad.
In Division Seven, Chirk Seconds pay a visit to Whittington.
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