HELPERBY have gone into the Pilmoor Evening Cricket League play-offs in pole position after beating high-flying visitors Newburgh by nine wickets.

Newburgh have been knocked down to third after the defeat, for which Helperby have a fine all-round performance from Dan Marston to thank.

The visitors made 132-3 with Rob Nicholson making 60 and James Banks 35. Marston (2-10) had the best return for Helperby.

Although Helperby lost an early wicket, Marston and Dan Spink saw their side through, Marston finishing on 77 and Spink 42.

Helperby also won the super over, surpassing Newburgh’s 7-2 without loss.

Paul Skilbeck took centre-stage when Easingwold entertained Crayke. Skilbeck made 138 as Easingwold put on 212-3, Zac Wilson supporting with 35.

After a testing time in the field, Crayke responded well by winning the super over, but fell well short in pursuit of a massive total and closed on 98-6, Geoff Pears making 44 while Andrew Metcalfe took 3-25.

Sessay’s improved form continued when they won at Clifton Alliance. Tom Sowerby batted through the innings to make 68, whilst Sam Abel made 21 and Ben Kettlewell an unbeaten 36.

The super over was tied at seven runs each before Alliance replied with 125-5.

A consistent Sessay attack put Clifton behind the clock although a late surge from Andrew Whaits with 42 not out and Sam Grant (36) took them to 125-5, Jake Atkinson having earlier made 26.

Dringhouses were unable to raise a side to travel to Alne, while the game at Thirsk v Sheriff Hutton Bridge was called off due to Covid.

The season now moves into the play-offs. The next round of fixtures features the bottom six teams with the three winners going into the quarter-finals with the top five teams.