Milnrow maintained their gathering momentum with two more outstanding victories this weekend

Milnrow maintained their gathering momentum with two more outstanding victories this weekend.

Milnrow's players are firmly focused on finishing in the top two in the CLL Championship in order to reach the premier division of the inaugral Pennine League in 2016.

They knew that nothing less than victory would be enough against their nearest rivals Radcliffe and Middleton. They achieved victories against both teams in impressive style.

Radcliffe travelled to Ladyhouse on Saturday five points ahead of Milnrow, but they were comprehensively beaten by the Milnrow side.

Milnrow won the toss and with the bowling attack in such fine form, captain Max Power had no hesitation in putting Radcliffe in to bat.

The Milnrow attack were soon taking wickets as Aaron Brown had Malik removed, thanks to a fine athletic catch from Wilman, in the third over and then followed it up by taking the wickets of Hamilton and the key wicket of former Milnrow professional, Majeed, inside the first ten overs.

He was supported by fine bowling from his opening partner, Brandon Diplock, who took three wickets of his own as Radcliffe slumped to 63 for 6 and then 78 for 7.

With Wilkinson, also in good form, the Milnrow bowlers maintained their pressure and again an energetic fielding performance ensured that Radcliffe were all out for 100.

Milnrow were in no mood to slip up and although professional Price and opening partner Crabtree were out for 8 and 13 respectively, the experience of Steve Dryden and Max Power saw Milnrow home comfortably in the 27th over.

Dryden maintained his impressive season with 44 not out, at better than a run a ball with seven fours, and Power again showed his class in leading the team home with 22 not out.

This comprehensive victory meant that Milnrow leapfrogged Radcliffe into third place and gave extra significance to the Sunday game against Middleton who were now only seven points ahead of Milnrow but having played a game more.