Monty, Newtown in control

Newtown remain top of Shropshire League Division One by just a point after their winning run continued at mid-table Cound.

It was a blistering attack from the Anthony boys that paved the way for a nine-wicket win after David took 5-26 and John took 4-29 to dismiss the hosts for just 97 in 33 overs.

Hamish Harding (38no) and Dai Brown (32no) then eased Newtown to victory in the 14^th over with just one wicket lost.

Montgomery are now streets ahead in Division Two after they recorded a win over Shrewsbury III and closest rivals Welshpool lost a nail biter at Ellesmere.

Andrew Barker made 52 as Montgomery posted 152-8, and it proved to be enough thanks to a superb 8-40 from James Corfield as the visitors were dismissed for 127.

Welshpool were set 172 by Ellesmere but their response fell just six runs short in the 45^th over.

Guilsfield’s promotion charge in Division Four continued with a thumping win at home to Coton Hall who were bowled out for just 77. Rob Owen took 5-20, then up stepped debutant Duncan Todd who smashed an unbeaten and rapid 66 for an eight-wicket win.

In the reserve divisions, Montgomery II went run crazy at Pontesbury II who had set a demanding target of 234-3. It wasn’t enough though as Ed Tuffin top scored with 45 as the runs were chased down with five balls to spare and two wickets still in the bank. The win sees them sit comfortably in Division Two mid table.

In Division Three, Newtown II lost a low scoring game against Bishop’s Castle II whose total of 113-9 proved to be enough.

Welshpool II lost by 110 runs at home to Whittington who has posted 252 to chase.