Vale stay in charge

London Maccabi Vale 1st moved a step closer to promotion from Middlesex Sunday League Division Two after claiming a 47-run victory over Wycombe House.

Openers Danny Caro (30) and Richard Black made a flying start. Black’s dismissal brought captain Adam Brand to the crease. Fresh from two early season centuries, Brand, who was dropped early on, smashed his way to 75 in good time. Mark Bott (38) added some lusty blows to take the score to 224-9.

Only four Wycombe House batsmen reached double figures as the LMV attack turned the screw in the second innings. Saul Weitzman (1-36), Ryan Kangisser (3-36), Rafi Polatinsky (2-23), Jon Galloway (1-33) and Brand (2-33).

Improved catching and a run out from Caro helped LMV dismiss the hosts for 177 as Brand’s troops maintained their grip on top spot.