SHERIFF Hutton Bridge kept the pressure on Easingwold at the top of the Pilmoor Evening Cricket League first division with victory over Stillington.

Easingwold, who were without a game, have seen their lead trimmed to two points.

Stillington's D Coulson (37) and S Dissanayake (23) were the only batsmen to make any real progress at Bridge, closing on 101 for nine. Steve Glaves claimed three for 17.

But Bridge's batsmen had to work hard for victory with Paul Scaling (43) and Craig Hunter (36) giving the innings sufficient momentum and they won with an over to spare at 102 for five.

Sessay batted first at Alne and Matthew Till (23), Joseph Joyce (21), Mike Megson (30 not out) and Richard Till (26) took them to 117 for five.

Chris Dyson made 36 and Eddie Myers an unbeaten 48 as Alne paced their reply perfectly and took two vital points at 119 for four with three balls remaining. That result leaves Stillington and New-burgh as favourites for the drop.

Thirsk remain just above the relegation zone after losing at Tollerton, who moved into third.

Only Mark Wainwright (22) got past 20 as Thirsk were all out for 83. Mark Hutchinson (4-21) and Tom Green (4-18) each had impressive returns.

Paul Hutchinson (27) and Tony Raper (24) then did most to ensure Tollerton's victory at 84 for four.

It is still all to play for at the top of division two with Huby, Clifton Alliance, Crayke and Rowntrees all having a realistic chance of promotion.

There was no play between Clifton Alliance and Rowntrees, and Sheriff Hutton conceded the points to Huby when they were unable to raise a side.

In the one fixture which did take place, Crayke beat Helperby by seven wickets to move into contention.

Tom Spilman's 37 helped Helperby to 101 for seven, while Ian Pock-lington (2-11) and Ike Raper (3-27) had the best returns for Crayke.

William Culpitt (2-17) struck two early blows for Helperby as Crayke's reply wobbled on three for two, but Paul Barton (54 not out) took Crayke to victory at 105 for three with support from Andy Gilleard (27) and Graeme Dawson (19 not out).

Updated: 12:39 Wednesday, July 25, 2001