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Shy of steely resolve

28/ 6/2007

CRICKET: A YOUNG Irlam Steel side once again spurned the chance to gain a valuable victory as they lost their lower table clash with Denton in the Lees Brewery Lancashire County League.

Irlam scored 190 runs for the loss of nine wickets from their allotted 50 overs. They had a couple of early setbacks but came good thanks to Ruddy, 29 runs, Hilton, 31, and Taylor, 49.

With opening bowler Rick Blackman back to his best after injury, Irlam were confident of defending that total.

Everything was going to plan with Denton on 123-7 after 41 overs. But the tide turned in Denton's favour when Leech was dropped on 29 runs.

He went on to score 56 not out as Denton won the game with five balls to spare to leave Irlam once again cursing a missed opportunity.

Blackman was the pick of Irlam's bowlers, taking four wickets for 75 runs off 25 overs.

Irlam picked up a point from the corresponding second team game.

Denton seconds made 214-3 but Irlam, who finished on 170-9, avoided defeat thanks to D Yates, 34 runs, and skipper M Hood, 22.

A much stronger Irlam seconds side travelled to Prestwich on Sunday for a Hulme Trophy second round tie.

The game was washed out with Irlam on 64-3 after 21 overs and Hood unbeaten on 28.

Irlam under-13s beat Woodbank by two wickets despite L Jackson, who retired on 30 runs, being the only Irlam player to reach double figures.

Woodbank were limited to 73-4 thanks to accurate Irlam bowling.