WILLIAM BINNS was the ace in the pack as Almondbury Wesleyans were forced to fight hard to retain their lead in the arrowselfdrive.com Central League Premier Section.
Clear at the top, the Wesleyans must have felt they were in a strong position after dismissing rivals Cumberworth for just 111 in 34 overs.
Binns did most of the damage with the ball, claiming four for 23 in his five overs, while the other wickets were shared around.
But Cumberworth put up a great fight to claim eight wickets before the leaders reached their target, opener Binns being the mainstay of the Wesleyans’ batting with a fine 75.
Second-placed Azaad are now 12 points adrift despite a solid victory at home to Birkby Rose Hill.
Ahmed claimed three for 33 as the Birkby side were held at 113-9 in 40 overs, Akhtar top scoring with 35 for the visitors.
Azaad then had solid contributions right down the order to reach their target in just 26 overs, claiming five points and N Hussain leading the way with an unbeaten 39.
Holmbridge and Green Moor got only four overs into their clash up the Holme Valley before play was abandoned and both claimed two points.
Meanwhile, Penistone had a fine home win against Thorn & West after letting the visitors reach 210-7.
Richards finished on 74 not out as they reached the target in 41 overs, Briggs chipping in with a fine 52.
Thurstonland coasted to victory after dismissing Flockton for 65 with Rishton taking five for nine and Thackray three for 15.
Flanagan (35no) and Oldham (28no) guided their side safely to their target.
