NORTHOP 208-8

DENBIGH 155

A FAILURE to make the most of a promising start saw Denbigh slip to a weekend defeat.

The Ystrad Road side were on top during the early stages of their North Wales Cricket League Premier Division trip to Northop.

However, a century from Jordan Evans turned out to be crucial as the home side eventually secured a 53-run margin of success.

Denbigh captain Harrison Jones won the pre-match toss and he opted to spend the opening portion of the afternoon in the field.

This initially appeared to be the correct decision and Northop's innings did not get off to the best of starts.

Jack Griffiths caused much of the early damage as the home outfit were reduced to 20-3.

Denbigh remained on top as Northop reached 66-5, however a 104-run partnership for the sixth wicket dragged the Flintshire side back into the encounter.

This was compiled by Jordan Evans and Andy Poynton.

Poynton struck 32, while Evans was the star man for Northop, hitting a brilliant 109 from just 98 deliveries.

With Matthew Mullarkey adding 17 not out, Northop's 50 overs yielded a competitive 208-8.

Jack Griffiths was the pick of Denbigh's attack, picking up 3-22 in 11 overs, while Andy Clarke claimed 3-39.

Other wickets went to Stuart Griffiths (1-32) and Harrison Jones (1-47).

Denbigh appeared to be in a decent position when they reached 74-1 during their response after tea.

Opener Gerallt Lyall struck 38 and Harrison Jones made 42 in the positive start.

The duo were eventually dismissed by Ammar Mahmood (2-31).

Andy Clarke (11), Joe Clayton (11) and Andy Thomas (12) attempted to help the total along, but the visitors ultimately found themselves being bowled out for 155 in the 44th over.

Matthew Mullarkey heralded the end of the innings with a superb 6-22 return from 6.1 overs.

Northop picked up 13 of the points that were on offer, with Denbigh claiming a couple of points from their efforts.