ASHTON-on-Mersey stayed top of the TACS Cheshire Cricket League Division One despite drawing with Stockport Georgians team at The Beets.

Choosing to make first use of a fine batting track with just enough in it to reward the better bowlers, Ashton’s innings was a well-constructed team effort with contributions throughout.

The highlight was a maiden first team 50 for 15-year-old Ryan O’Brien who provided steady support to the fluent James Lines and Alex Turner.

With Sam Timbs blasting late order runs, Ashton would have been pleased to post 209.

In reply, Georgians were soon on the rack as the excellent Timbs made full use of the new ball to reduce the visitors to 38-5.

But resistance from the lower middle order saw the shine off the ball and with all hopes of a win abandoned, the Cromley Road crew dug in search of a draw.

Trevor Bailey and Chris Dodd led the admirable rear guard action, and they rode their luck to keep the well marshalled Ashton attack at bay.

The superb Timbs finished with 5-41 but as the overs ran out the home side were two wickets short of forcing a victory.

With other results going in their favour Ashton extended their lead at the top of the table and look forward to next week’s long journey to Malpas.

The second team brought home a three-wicket win against Georgians.

Isuru Perera was the pick of the bowlers with 4-40 and Lee Heap chipped in with 3-10 as Georgians were all out for 113.

In reply, Dave Patterson was unbeaten on 27 as the second team reached their total with the loss of seven wickets.