All the latest Skelmersdale cricket news

Jun 25 2009 by James Connor, Ormskirk Advertiser

All the latest Skelmersdale cricket news

SKELMERSDALE are still searching for that first home league win of the season after a disappointing performance at home to Leigh.

It was yet another game Skem could – and should – have won. There were four wickets for Tony Manley as the visitors laboured 65 overs to post 198-9 declared but, with half a dozen catches going begging, Andy Molyneux's men ought to have been chasing a lot less than almost 200.

Molyneux (32), Azam (33), Baker (27) and Platt (21) all got themselves in and if just one of them had gone past fifty, Skem might have got very close to their target. As it was, Lancashire's Karl Brown had the final say, finishing with four wickets as Skem fell 38 runs shy.

Skem seconds also came a cropper at Norley Hall. Skipper Steve Maddocks stroked a wonderful unbeaten 120, sharing a century stand with a resurgent Barry Leadbetter (76) along the way.

But a generous declaration at 253-4 opened the way for Norley to take full advantage of a flat track and a fast outfield to romp home with plenty of wickets and time to spare.

Skem's 3XI remain well in contention as the Southport League nears half way. They skittled Earlestown for just 21 at Abbey Lane and, despite a helpful wicket for the bowlers, eased to a five wicket win.

The Twenty20 World Cup may be over, but fans still wanting more should head for Scott Rees Park this Thursday evening, as Skem entertain Sefton Park in an eagerly anticipated Echo Knock-out clash.