SHERIFF Hutton Bridge opened up a four-point gap at the top of the Pilmoor Evening League’s first division after winning at Helperby courtesy of a last-ball boundary.

The hosts set a target of 106-6 with contributions from Jeff Rosslyn (24), Dan Marston (37) and Matt Poulter (21), while Dulash Udayanga grabbed 3-22. Bridge went on to lose five wickets on the way to their dramatic victory.

All-rounder Tommy Banks inspired Newburgh to a first win this season at home to Thirsk. Coming in at the fall of the first wicket, Banks made an unbeaten 74 to help his side to 126 for 5, as Josh Sargent offered some support with 17. Banks then shot out the Thirsk top order, taking 3-11, allowing Josh Sargent (2-29) and James Calvert (2-26) to complete victory as Thirsk were all out for 101.

Sessay batted first at Clifton Alliance and posted 117-5, with Nick Thorne making 53 and Mark Jackson 50 not out. Although Alliance lost wickets to George Till (2-21), the consistent Matthew Montgomery then secured the points by making an unbeaten 69 as the hosts won comfortably at 118-2.

In the second division, Alne at last got their first win of the campaign at the expense of previously unbeaten leaders Crayke. Batting first, Crayke recorded a respectable enough 128-5, with John Dey (51ret) making a maiden half-century, while support came from Peter Carr (36).

Ryan Raper was Alne’s outstanding bowler with his return of 3-31 and, when his team batted, they were guided to a convincing triumph by Will Bell (51 ret), Harry Stevens (50 ret) and Sam Lupton (25). They reached 129-1 with three overs in hand, although Crayke’s cause was not helped by several dropped catches.

Raskelf batted first at Dringhouses and their 108-8 was largely due to 40 from Matt Goddard and 38 from Sam Porter, while Max Thomas (3-10), Jacob Green (3-9) and Ben Johnson (2-20) hit back. Tom Storr (43) and Sam Lingard (32) impressed in reply, but Porter claimed 3-29 before Mollie Ovenden caused late concern by taking 3-4. Dringhouses survived to finish on 109-7 and move joint-top with Crayke.