Thirsk lead the Pilmoor Evening Cricket League first division at its mid-way session by a single point from Sessay, with weather-hampered Newburgh a further two behind.

Sheriff Hutton boosted their chances of survival with a vital win at Alne. Alne took first innings and made 111-7, Fran Raper top scoring with 42 not out. Richard Armitage (3-21) was the most successful Sheriff Hutton bowler before team-mate Finney led them home with an unbeaten 62 out of the 113-4 reply.

Leaders Thirsk edged a narrow win over Sheriff Hutton Bridge.

Mark Wainwright was again in form, making 65 and Mark Cook 29 as they closed on 120-4.

Paul Scaling threatened to win the game for Bridge but fell on 37. Fisher also made 22, but Dean Bramley with 2-20 and Cook 2-29 ensured that Thirsk took the points as Bridge fell to 112-6.

Sessay kept up their challenge with a comfortable win at Easingwold. Skipper Stuart Peirse made an unbeaten 49 and Tom Kay 35 as they reached 123-2.

Easingwold's reply never seriously threatened, but 13-year-old Billy Gregory gave them some encouragement with an unbeaten 24, which included two sixes. Ian Watkinson (3-18) and Matthew Wass (2-13) did enough to limit the reply to 88-8.

Newburgh's challenge was hindered when their match against Crayke was called off because of a waterlogged ground, the third time this season they have fallen victim to the weather.

In the second division, Stillington enjoy a four-point lead.

Helperby were their visitors and made a respectable 117-5 with Nick Buchanan making 44, John Tuley 30 and J Hardy 32no against Chris Borwell 2-23 and Wayne Linton 2-20.

But Stillington cruised home at 118 without loss, Kevin Borwell making 73no and J Hartley 40no.

Clifton Alliance shaded a close-fought match against Raskelf. Alex Renton (20), Alan Barton (44), Will Roe (25no) and Chris Elliott (24no) excelled in the 126-3.

Raskelf's reply was only just off target, closing on 119-8, with Brian Bowes making 25. Renton took 2-7 and Chris Riley 2-25.

Huby were the other successful side with victory over struggling Rowntrees.

Dan Grainger top scored with 48 as they made 125-5, M Horner returning 2-22 for Rowntrees.

Hugh Shedden then claimed 4-29 as Rowntrees were held to 84-7, despite 35 from Martin Thornton.

Updated: 10:44 Wednesday, June 22, 2005