Loughton 161-2
Old Southendians 160-a/o
(Division Two)

LOUGHTON kept the pressure on leaders Fives and continued to evade the advances of Walthamstow after recording a resounding eight-wicket win over lowly Old Southendians.

The Uplands outfit ensured their rivals did not extend their eight-point lead at the top and are making Terry Ballard’s side earn their Division Two title.

But while captain Mike Hughes will only have eyes for the top, he may have to afford a glance behind him, as Walthamstow’s late charge for the promotion places shows no signs of slowing, with the gap between them and Loughton in second now standing at eight.

Amidst all the chaos at the top, Loughton ensured they kept their minds focussed on the job in hand as they cruised to victory over the visitors.

Their bowlers tore into the Seasiders’ line-up and didn’t allow them to settle into any sort of rhythm.

Gareth James Jnr was the stand-out bowler with four wickets, although there were key contributions from two of the side’s most reliable performers Usman Jan (3-25) and Kelby Pickering (3-33) as they combined to blast Old Southendians out for 160.

The batsmen capped a superb all-round team performance, with Jan remaining unbeaten at the crease on 42 to complete an excellent personal batting and bowling display.

Captain Mike Hughes (20) and Gareth James (52) got things rolling for Loughton, but it was Jan and Ritchie Bann (38 not out) who guided the team home.

Next up for Loughton is an away match with basement boys Southend-on-Sea, who need a minor miracle to avoid relegation to Division Three.

For more information about Loughton Cricket Club: loughtoncc.hitscricket.com