Murton seize the top spot

Aug 29 2007 Evening Chronicle

3D Sports Durham Coast League

JUST over a week ago Murton, who haven’t really shown their hand all summer, were 38 points behind long-time leaders Castle Eden.

But two successive wins, allied to Castle’s inactivity, have taken them to the top of the pile at the most crucial stage of the campaign.

And the clash between the two on the last day of the season looks set to be an all-ticket affair as the title will almost certainly rest on the outcome.

It was a no-nonsense display for Murton as Seaham Park were seen off by the impressive margin of 91 runs after a half-century from Graham Robson and 48 from Les Gilbert had taken them to 176 for seven.

Calvin Stephenson then ripped the Park apart with a spell of seven for 21 as the home side were cleaned up for just 85.

Silksworth made third place their own after they won against Easington, and Boldon CA lost surprisingly to Ryhope, who are among the bottom three.

Stephen Wright was in glorious form for Silksworth as he claimed seven Easington wickets to leave his team needing 159 for victory.

Jason Moses (65no) had done his best to lift the visitors, but when Wright went on to score a half-century it was the home side celebrating after a four-wicket success.

Bill Quay moved up to fourth when they defeated Washington after posting 200 for six, with Daniel Pearson (70 not out) and Jeff Tudor (49) the men in form.

Opening bowler David Brown (six for 44) then ran through the visitors’ batting, and they were all out for 121.

Boldon CA lost only their second game of the season in 103-run defeat to Ryton.

Dave Kennedy’s opening 74, and 40 from Robbie Atherton helped Ryton to victory.

In a game where there was little at stake other than pride, Dawdon overpowered Peterlee by 127 runs.

It was another game which featured a brilliant all-round individual effort.

Sean McKenna led the Dawdon batting onslaught with an undefeated 84, this following Anthony Watson’s opening 43.

With 202 to their name, the home team were in no mood to let the wooden spoonists off the hook.

Their victory was completed by McKenna, who claimed six for 16 to round off a memorable personal day.