CHORLEY'S success in recent seasons with the bat and ball looks set to continue after a resounding victory over Netherfield on Sunday saw them reach the national stages of the Abbot Ale Cup.

The convincing and very professional nine wicket win at Kendal was made even sweeter because the Cumbrians had already inflicted two defeats on Chorley this season.

The victory ensured Chorley won the group final and it was their excellent bowling and fielding which restricted Netherfield to only 130-8 from their 45 overs. Neil Walmsley took three early wickets to give his side the edge.

Chorley batted with assurance and occasionally arrogance to finish on 134-1 with more than seven overs to spare. The unbroken second wicket partnership of 99 was led by Jim Fazackerley (73 not out) and supported by skipper Roland Horridge (39 not out).

Sunday's game was not the only occasion at the weekend when Chorley's batsmen were in impressive form.

After rain had interrupted play during Saturday's stop-start game against Leyland DAF, former Burnley professional Joe Angel hit 77 not out in an unbroken third wicket stand of 142 with Nigel Heaton (67 not out) as Chorley recovered from 9-2 to reach 151 without further loss.

Man of the match Angel also produced magnificent form with the ball, taking six for 21 as Leyland collapsed to 55-7 to give Chorley five points from a winning draw.

Angel's heroics and Chorley's all round solidity saw them regain joint top spot of the Northern League with Fleetwood.

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