ASHTON-on-Mersey extended their lead of the TACS Cheshire Cricket League Division One despite a draw in the wet at Malpas.

Ashton’s openers Alex O’Gara and Ryan O’Brien put together a superb 100 partnership before O’Brien fell to the spin of Adrian Stubbs for 64.

The introduction of Andrew Hayward saw a tumble of wickets, including O’Gara for 59, before the composed Tom Scott (43) and the dynamic Sam Timbs lifted the innings, allowing an early declaration at 230-6.

Stubbs (3-48) and Hayward (3-52) took the bowling honours.

In reply Malpas recovered from losing a wicket in the first over and counter attacked through Keith Rickett (56) and Henry Wilson-Theaker (42).

The introduction of spinner Mike Roberts accounted for both players and from that point the Malpas effort stuttered as Ashton looked to push on for a win.

But the rain that had threatened all day gathered pace, and with a wet ball neutralizing the Ashton spin and seam options the home side battled through the reduced overs to safety.

Roberts finished the leading wicket taker with 3-37.

Whilst Ashton will be disappointed not to have forced a win, their strong display pocketed sufficient points to secure their leadership of the division, as their title rivals stuttered. Next week’s visit of Romiley to The Beets will be a crucial contest.

The Ashton second team comfortably beat Woodford by 73 runs.

Akash Patel top-scored with 76 for Ashton and Will Pidgeon chipped in with 56 as Ashton posted 231.

Isuru Perera did most of the damage with 4-38 supports by Connor Kelly's 3-26.