LUCTONIANS continue to lead the way in an increasingly fascinating battle at the top of Division One of the GB Liners Marches League.

Four sides are well in contention for the title but the Kingsland club underlined their challenge with a three-wicket success in a high-scoring encounter at Dales.

Home skipper Chris Chadd top-scored with 71 as, despite a fine return of Pete Griffiths (6-57), Dales progressed to 253.

Luctonians slipped to 30-3 in the face of a good opening stint from Wayne Bufton (4-45) but skipper James Platford took control as his side eased home with eight balls to spare.

Platford crashed 12 fours and six sixes in an 111-ball unbeaten 126 with wicket-keeper Adam Price (37) lending valuable support.

In an unusual family double, on the following day Platford’s sister Suzanne was also a centurion, plundering an unbeaten 111 as, alongside Charlotte Hoare (122 not out) she set up a 204-run win for Colwall Ladies in a friendly match against Ross Ladies.

Garnons remain second in the table after a low-scoring win at Builth Wells where Rob Pritchard (4-54), Sam Bendall (46) and skipper James Debenham (42) were the main contributors.

Goodrich are third after a five-wicket success over Weobley while Crickhowell’s Nick Francis hit 97 in a 55-run triumph over Marden to keep the Welshmen in touch in fourth place.

Hay skipper Karl Warn hit 76 as his side beat Kington by 102 runs to move into mid-table.

Division Two leaders Ledbury looked in control of their match at Almeley when Luke Ledbury’s 100 led them to 271-6.

But Nick Evans responded with 105 as the home side reached their target with a ball to spare.

The day’s other centurion was in Division Four where experienced Graham Parker scored 101 in Brockhampton 4th’s 82-run success against Widemarsh Lads Club.