|
Sale 2nd XI's winning run came to an end at Mobberley as they were thwarted by a stubborn rear-guard action by the home side. Sale set off in determined fashion as Sale skipper Briggs hit the first ball for six. This set the tone for the day as Briggs & Malik put on 121 for the first wicket in less than 20 overs. Clean hitting to some indifferent bowling ensured that Sale were always dominant.
Malik was the first to go, falling to a good diving catch when well set on 38. Briggs continued to set the pace, well supported by the reliable Davies. Mobberley tried numerous bowling options, but the boundaries kept flowing as Briggs pushed the Sale score on; he was finally bowled for 95 trying to launch another six back over the pavilion.
Davies was then joined by Whitelegg who together batted through to the declaration. Whilst lacking the big hitting of the openers their partnership was equally effective maintaining the run rate against the now ragged Mobberley fielders. The declaration came in the 41st over with Sale on 232-2. Davies and Whitelegg both finished on 41 not out.
Despite being given 59 overs to bat Mobberley never attempted to win the game, content to block the Sale attack for long periods. O'Donnell and Moore both made early inroads, along with Briggs who was never out of the game. However by the first drinks break after 15 overs it was clear that Mobberley were already playing for a draw.
Briggs kept rotating the bowling to find a breakthrough in the hot weather, with 9 of the Sale team having a bowl. Despite this the luck was with the home side as Sale put down a few vital chances.
Moore returned to try and force the Sale victory, but couldn't get the final two wickets finishing with 2-27 from his 17 overs. Briggs was the other leading bowler with 3-19.
Sale could only manage a draw, but the 16 points they earned will keep them in contention for a promotion spot.
| 
