Although Matthew Bell hit a half-century, Brigg Town Cricket Club were beaten in Lincolnshire County Cricket League Division Three yesterday (Saturday, August 14). However, there was a crushing win for Broughton to press their claims for promotion from Division One, with all-rounder Shaun Clark achieving the match double by passing 50 and taking five wickets.
Brigg's game at Barton Town 2nds looked likely to be a tough test, and so it proved.
Brigg posted a decent 174 for six in 45 overs at Marsh Lane, Matthew Bell leading the way with 61 and Danny Bradley scoring 38 at the top of the order. But Barton, who included ex-Brigg seam bowler Tom Brock in their line-up, lost only two wickets in achieving their target with more than seven overs to spare.
Brigg had to be content with three batting bonus points and are in eighth spot (mid-table).
Broughton hosted Bracebridge Heath 2nds and rattled up a huge 264 for six. Russ Blackburn cracked four sixes in his 81, while Shaun Clark hit 55.
Shaun then took five wickets for only 17 runs as the Lincoln side were dismissed for 82.
This 182-run victory brought Broughton the maximum 20 points available; they are third in the rankings with five games to go. Normally, the top two teams become eligible for promotion to the top flight.
Hibaldstow remain at the foot of Division One, having been dismissed for 65 by leaders Scunthorpe Town 2nds at their Heslam Park venue. The home side then lost only one wicket in securing victory. Hibaldstow gained no points from this away fixture.
Broughton 2nds remain in the Division Two relegation zone following a defeat in Lincoln yesterday which saw them collect five bonus points. Hartsholme 2nds made 180 for eight, while Broughton 2nds replied with 151 all out (Steve Johnstone scoring 78).
PICTURED: Brigg's Matthew Bell (top left) who top scored with 61 yesterday, and Broughton's Shaun Clark who was in fine all-round form.