Alsager enhance their quest for promotion

ALSAGER seconds moved to within eight points of a promotion place in NSSCL Division Four with a comfortable victory over Ashcombe Park 2nd XI.

- Chris Travers

Alsager are in fourth place, but gave their chances of making the step up a big boost by seeing off their second-placed rivals.

Paul Pickford’s unbeaten century formed the backbone of their imposing 270-4 from their 40 overs in the first half.

Pickford’s 109 not out contained 19 fours, with Adil Javed (43), Kev Leigh (38) and Hassan Haleem (37) also impressing.

Steve Proffitt picked up 3-69 for Ashcombe Park.

The visitors saw James Proffitt make 75, featuring 16 boundaries, while Brad Cartlidge chipped in with 33.

But from a handy position of 128-3, Ashcombe Park tumbled to 151 all out.

Joshua Khan (4-32), Javed (3-30) and Lewis Pickford (3-44) did the damage with the ball.

Leaders Audlem are 30 points clear after winning a rain-affected clash at home against Kidsgrove.

Visitors Kidsgrove made their way to 143 all out in the formative stages of the contest.