RADCLIFFE went some way to shifting a monkey from their backs as they eased to a five-wicket victory against Dukinfield seconds.

The Racecourse men did a good job with the ball in restricting a strong batting side to 178 all out before collecting the five points by racing to a revised target, reaching it with a ball remaining in the 29th over.

And while captain Michael Farley admits they are not the best chasers around, their win was a huge confidence booster ahead of this Saturday’s fixture at Greater Manchester League Division Three leaders Whalley Range seconds.

“The outfield may have been a bit wet but our fielding wasn’t the best we’ve had this season, so we did well to restrict a very good batting team,” said Farley, who had been expecting to open Radcliffe’s reply with a score well beyond 200 to chase.

“There were a couple of good performances from the bowlers, Jimmy DIxon took 4-49 and there were two wickets for 19 runs in Jordan Booth’s five overs. We did well because they looked set for around 220 to 230 at one stage. Jordan’s figures would have been even better but for the 12 wides he bowled too!

“In the reply, Callum Malcolm’s 52 not out and 49 from Dene Bowman saw us home with quite a few overs to spare.

“We haven’t been a very good chasing team but we got a bit of a monkey off our back.”

In his first match opening the attack Booth may have sent down some wayward deliveries but removing both openers, to reduce Dukinfield to 9-2 shows what a prospect the youngster is.

“He’s young and he’ll learn but he’s very good and we were happy to just let him go and bowl,” said Farley. “The more he bowls, the more consistent he’ll become.

“And Callum had earned his place with his recent hundred in the thirds, we’re happy with how he’s progressing. We’ve got good players ready to come in and do a job and I’m pleased with our strength in depth.”