Newton Aycliffe Cricket Club’s 1st team, sponsored by Franks the Flooring Store, held on for a draw at home to Hartlepool 2nd XI in the NYSD 2nd division. Electing to bat first the visitors scored a challenging 203 for 7 after 50 overs with Jack Slatcher, Patrick Howe and Michael Howe (sponsored by Yvonne and Bob Wood), each taking a couple of wickets. In reply, Luke Telford (30 runs) and Adam Randall (29 runs) helped to get Aycliffe off to a steady start, but a regular fall of wickets put the home side on the back foot and fighting to save the game. Michael Howe batted superbly remaining unbeaten on a seasonal best 64 from 77 balls and with his brother Patrick (5 not out from 46 balls), the pair safely saw Aycliffe to stumps with an excellent unbeaten ninth wicket partnership of 49, finishing the innings on 192 for 8 after their 50 overs.

Aycliffe have only one more game to play this season when they entertain bottom of the table Redcar first team at home on Saturday 14th September with a 12.30pm start.

Photo: Michael Howe who scored 64 not out v Hartlepool.