Old Mannerians 94-9 tied with

Elton 94 all out

(Old Mannerians go through having lost fewer wickets)

Elton can probably consider themselves a little hard done by to go out after a white-knuckle finish.

They certainly considered themselves to be on the wrong end of a couple of marginal decisions which ultimately proved crucial.

But for all that this was a game that was firmly within their grasp for long periods and, in the final analysis, they had only themselves to blame for letting it slip away.

Josh Bagshaw top scored for the experienced Mannerians with 21, and he was very well supported by Bryn Thompson (15) and John Barkley (16).

Paul Carson (3-28) had the best figures for Elton.

The remaining wickets were shared out nicely with a couple each for Craig Elliott, James Marsden and Robert Lightfoot.

The Elton openers Jack Stone and Craig Elliott began like a house on fire – combining good shot selection with aggressive running between the wickets.

At 59 without loss, a ten wicket victory looked a distinct possibility.

But then the wheels came off.

Elliott departed for 21 and Stone followed a short time later for the evening’s top score of 32.

No other batsman reached double figures as the innings disintegrated alarmingly.

Even then Elton found themselves with two wickets still in hand, the scores level and a full over remaining.

But their remaining batsmen just couldn't get over the line and Mannerians’ never-say-die spirit and greater experience carried the day.

Ed Bagshaw (5-25) and Nick Price (3-16) were their star bowlers.

This pair held their nerve particularly well in a nerve-jangling finish.

So all credit to Mannerians for pulling this game out of the fire.

They go into the next round with Elton's best wishes for further success in this fine old competition.

Longstone League fixtures for Wednesday June 25 (6.30pm)

Ashford v Great Longstone, Elton v Calver, Hathersage v Grindleford.