SETTLE met their match on Saturday as they travelled to Read, who had already beaten them twice this season. The hosts scored a daunting 306-5, thanks largely to a knock of 135 from 100 deliveries by pro Harry Carter, before he was caught and bowled by Benjamin Hulse. The bowlers also suffered at the hands of Ben Gorton (82no).

Settle had made a club record score of 310 earlier this season, so they set about their task with determination. Sadrian Ward blasted 47 from 22 balls, backed up by Jack Harrison (29) and Demario Richards (15).

The solid middle order of Will Davidson (27) and John Davidson (33) was followed by an unbeaten 14 from Hulse, holding out for 60 deliveries to deny Read the bowling points, but Settle ended well short on 213-9.

Senior League leaders Settle are 23 points ahead of their nearest rivals Barnoldswick who visit Marshfield this Saturday, each side with three matches left in the season and all still to play for.

Barnoldswick continued their good form with a seven-wicket win over Osbaldtwistle.

The visitors were restricted to 171-4 at Victory Park with Jack Harrison (62) top scoring.

Barnoldswick eased to their target with openers Abdul Saddique (46) and Amir Saddique (39) laying the platform for overseas professional Shashrika Pussegolla (40no) to finish the job.

Earby's recent revival came to an end as they suffered six-wicket defeat again Whalley.

Sam Parry (35) was the only batsman to make an impression as Earby were dismissed for 108 by Sam Sweeney (4-43) and Toby Bulcock (3-23). Whalley knock off the runs with the minimum of fuss.

The return of Simon Tarbox and Josh Mullinder to Settle seconds was vital in their winning four precious bonus points to keep their side just above the relegation zone. Tarbox hit 35 from a total of 114 all out facing Division One leaders Barnoldswick at Marshfield. Adam Strickland contributed 14, but it was Barlick’s bowlers who held sway as David Scothern took 3-24 from eight overs.

Settle responded well as Kieren Ashley took 3-42, while Mullinder spun his way through 14 overs to pick up 4-31 and get some reward as the visitors took the match. Adil Ali (45) led the way, supported by Asad Latif (19) and Scothern and Wasique Ali (15 each).