TRAFFORD Metrovics CC managed to stave off the threat of relegation when then managed to grind out a one-wicket victory against Wistaston at MacPherson Park.

They took on second-placed Wistaston looking to cause an upset.

MV won the toss and decided to bowl in wet, overcast conditions.

A rain delay at the start caused the game to be reduced to 32 overs.

But some tight bowling from opening bowler Raghavendar Nagaraju and Andy Harrison kept the run rate low early on as Wistaston lost both openers early on.

With Wistaston needing to accelerate from the midway point in their innings, Steve Haughton and Tom Armstrong produced two excellent spells, Armstrong in particular with some fine bowling to end up with figures of 4-11. Wistaston were all out for 136, a competitive total on a lively wicket.

Metrovics had a disastrous start in response, losing openers Nagaraju and Greenwood for one run.

Steve Warner and Tom Armstrong mounted the recovery, Warner eventually falling for 26 and with MV sitting at 75-5 with 12 overs remaining the game was finely balanced.

Skipper Harrison then hit 24 off one over before departing for 25, with MV needing 25 to win.

Some big hitting from Simon Pomfret and a couple of fine shots from number 11 Haughton saw MV home for a vital win, largely thanks to a fine anchoring role from Armstrong (29not out).

MV will look to continue their recent good form at mid-table Stalybridge this Saturday.

n Trafford MV Rugby Club have their eyes set firmly on the season ahead with an itinerary set to give them a good start to the season in North Lancashire Division One. With a new Director of Rugby - Andrew Hope and the return of Ben Wheeler as captain MV are looking to the seasons challenge with a renewed vigour.

The club start their pre-season preparations with friendlies lined up against Bowdon (Aug 8th), Manchester (19th), Windermere (Pre-season training camp 22nd) and Ashton on Mersey (August 25).

The club are keen to recruit new players at all levels whether it is to compete aggressively for a first team spot or to play a more social style of Rugby on the third team.

Excellent facilities are provided and the club continues to invest in these amenities offering the best amateur provisions in the area.

If you are interested then contact Wilf Dooley on 01942 884542.