ASHTON-on-Mersey recorded a comprehensive nine-wicket victory against Cheshire Cricket League Division One strugglers Irby.

The visitors' decision to bat first looked a rash one as some excellent bowling from Craig Stow and Josh Knowles accounted for both openers with just 16 on the board.

But with some great application the Irby middle-order ground out a respectable total of 151-9 on a pitch which looked ripe with runs.

Stow was full value for his 3-48 and spinner Dave Corps delivered a miserly spell to finish with 2-12.

In reply, the Ashton batting looked in total control as James Lines and Tom Scott saw off the new ball with some ease.

With Scott playing the anchor role, Lines took the chance to unveil a series of classic shots to stroll to a well-made half-century.

Scott fell for 35, but Lines continued his superb knock as, together with skipper James Marshall, Ashton reached 152-1 with overs to spare. Lines was unlucky to finish short of his century on 91 not out.

The second XI won a thrilling match at Lindow.

After Sam Gupta’s five wickets restricted the home side to 180, a cultured 51 from Mike Roberts set up a run chase that went down to the last wicket.

Ollie Chow (34no) and Dan Higgins saw Ashton home, with Higgins hitting a six to win the game.

The thirds made it a maximum points weekend for Ashton as they beat Hyde at the Beets.

Bowling the visitors out for 145 (Steve Faulkner 3-32) Ashton produced a fine team batting effort to get the runs for the loss of six wickets.

The only disappointment of the weekend was the loss in the T20 cup final against Port Sunlight.

Ashton’s batting struggled in fading light to chase down the 126 total, and were bowled out for just 61.

The ladies had a rest weekend but are gearing up for the women and girls cricket night at The Beets between 6-8pm tomorrow.

This free event is for all players from beginners upwards with the emphasis on fun and enjoyment. For information contact aomclub@hotmail.co.uk or call 0161 969 9507.