Monty move second

Montgomery have moved to second in Shropshire Division Two following a convincing 117-run victory against Ludlow Thirds.

The Lymore-based side were put into bat and got off to a great start as openers Andrew Barker (57) and Thomas Corfield (40) put the visiting bowlers to the sword, and they eventually made 220-6.

Captain Sam Williams then took 3-25, restricting Ludlow Thirds to 103 runs to ensure they collected all 20 points.

In the Premier League, Newtown were set a target of 251-9 to chase despite the best efforts of John Anthony (4-60). In reply, Newtown were dismissed for 139 and remain bottom.

Welshpool eased their early season Division One relegation woes with a well-earned border derby victory over Alberbury. Nick Davies (40), Mat McWhinnie (39no) and Russell Cadwallader (33) saw them through to 198, before support bowlers Patrick Davies and Paul Chapman took three wickets apiece to reduce Alberbury to 140 all out.

Skipper Andy Trow described Guilsfield’s win over Division Four leaders Trysull and Seisdon as one of the best he has been a part of.

Putting the visitors in, Guilsfield’s attack was in fine form with Bobby Gill and David Williams taking three wickets each as the leaders were restricted to 120 all out.

Gill, who is departing for pastures new, signed off with an unbeaten 42 as he guided Guilsfield home for the loss of four wickets. The win moves them second, just 12 points off the leaders.

Oswestry III pulled out of their match with Llanidloes.

Montgomery II looked set to shock Reserve Division One title-chasing Alberbury Seconds but eventually fell 29 runs short after dismissing the Pecknall Farm team for 116.

Nick Roberts (47) and Jordan Harding (30) were in decent form for Welshpool II as they posted 169-9 at Cae Glas II in Reserve Division Three.

Nathan Baines (3-12) then mopped up the tail as Pool sailed to victory by dismissing the hosts for just 78.