Chaplin strikes

ST. JAMES looked on the verge of scoring a surprise victory over high-flying Hastings when the second placed team slumped to 123-6.

However, a stunning unbroken stand of 129 for the seventh wicket swung the game in Hastings' favour.

James Chaplin hit 100 not out from 89 balls and John Morgan 40 not out to take Hastings to 252-6 and leave themselves 54 overs to clinch victory. Earlier Jason Finch had made 54 and Richard Jackson 35.

The Hastings pace attack proved too much for the visitors and only an enterprising 48 from Andy Wellfare, who came in at 37-7, prevented a complete rout as St. James were bowled out for 86. John Morgan took 5-26 and former Crowborough man Andy Cornford 3-32.

Lewes Priory were without a game at the weekend, and, after looking like promotion contenders earlier in the season, must now fight to avoid the indignity of the wooden spoon.

Premier Division: Chichester 78 lost to Eastbourne 82-0; Haywards Heath v Steyning abandoned; Brighton & Hove 239-8 lost to Horsham 241-3; Three bridges 211-6 beat Worthing 163.

Division Two: East Grinstead 242-7 abandoned against Bexhill 8-0; Preston Nomads 226-4 drew with Littlehampton; Sidley 225-9 abandoned against Roffey.

2nd XI's Division One: Brighton & Hove 186-3 drew with Horsham 99-7; Eastbourne 152-7 drew with Chichester 115-6; Bexhill 147 lost to East Grinstead 148-4; St. James 167 lost to hastings 169-8; Three Bridges 181-6 lost to Worthing 182-4.

Division Two: Preston Nomads 121 beat Littlehampton 102; Sidley 162 abandoned against Roffey 4-0; Haywards Heath 135 lost to Cuckfield 136-5.