"NOT AGAIN!" AS CHIPPS MISS OUT

And there was no consolation prize of promotion either for Chipps or the family and friends who travelled up to Crawley in support. The outcome meant Broadbridge Heath sneaked past them into second spot.

Well aware of the do-or-die nature of the game and in pursuit of potentially crucial bonus points, Chipps skipper Graham Avinou batted first on what was palpably a bowler-friendly West Green Ground surface.

Unfortunately, despite a record of five wins in eight matches when making first use, a full-strength Rotary Ground-based outfit were never allowed to settle into the task by their hosts and were strangled out for just 138 in a ball shy of 50 overs.

Indeed, Ram opening bowlers Viren (five for 64) and Kartik (three for 19) showed why they had recorded four of the top five bowling returns across the division. They sent both openers back to the pavilion within half an hour and mopped up the tail once a typically stylish 53 from fixtures and facilities secretary Jerry White and determined efforts in support from Rob Corin (25) and Jeremy Scrace (18) were ended.

Opener Adam Thair and upper middle-order man Scrace were delayed in their journey and batted further down the order.

Chipps showed no lack of confidence with the ball after tea. Quicks Ben Stone and Ollie Hall picked up two wickets apiece on a less damp but still lively track. But Ram ultimately made light work of the chase, courtesy of Hiterdra Kabir's 57 and Danny's not out 38.

Unsurprisingly, none of those concerned with Chipps were in the mood to comment afterwards. Four times this season they had their opposition nine wickets down without dismissing them. But there is no doubt that this accessible club, faced with extinction until the emphasis was placed on youth development, is going in the right direction.

And that come next May there will be a spring in the step at the prospect of making it third time lucky. If you think you can help, in any way and at any level, don't hesitate.