WALSHAW will have to wait a little longer to be crowned champions of the Association after they were beaten for the first time on Sunday.

The runaway leaders, who would have virtually been assured of the title had they beaten their nearest challengers, went down to a six wicket defeat at second placed Clifton when they were skittled for only 67.

Stars of the show for Clifton were Gary Tonge, who picked up six wickets for 40 runs and pro Steve Holt with four wickets for ten runs. In reply Clifton completed their victory in quick time scoring 71-4.

Walshaw did have some cause for celebration, however, as 16 years old wicketkeeper Anthony Harris claimed the one victim that broke the Association's wicketkeeping record.

Golborne's Ian Critchley caused a few problems for his former Adlington team mates as he picked up three wickets for six runs. Dave Roberts also claimed 4-36 but rain rescued Adlington as the game ended with them teetering at 91-9, Paul Matthews returning 5-50.

Earlier Golborne had totalled 148-9, Dale Tyrer 36, Critchley 32 and Paul Waterworth 24. Daisy Hill completed a three wicket win over A & T after dismissing the home side for 115.

Pro Chris Jones proved the man of the match taking 4-42 and hitting 47 in his side's winning reply aided by Mark Penny's contribution of 3-32 and 27 with the bat and Duncan Brooks' 3-33. For A & T Jim Cutt top scored with 29 and Dave Clare hit 26.

Jason Whittaker was the star of the show as Darcy Lever made if a hat-trick of wins.

The professional scored 94 as his side reached 173-5 at Standish then took four for 25 as the home side were dismissed for only 87. Top wicket-taker for Darcy was Cruickshank with 5-29. Andy Stocks also hit 48 not out for Darcy.