Tipton St John CC completed a convincing victory over long-standing opponents All Saints on Sunday, chasing down a modest 98 run total for a six wicket victory, writes David Birch.

Skipper David Birch (3-8) and Paul Williamson (1-11) reduced the visitors to 19-5 in 12 overs, after they surprisingly elected to bat first on a damp surface in overcast conditions.

A sharp run out by Chris Mason left All Saints’ batting in disarray before two mini stands dragged them towards respectability.

Nevertheless, accurate spells from Mark Channon (1-11) and Robin Pickering kept up the pressure and, despite an aggressive 30 from Nunns, All Saints’ batsmen were never allowed to settle into the game.

Another wicket for the returning Williamson, one for Adam Gibbins and two from Steve Shaw completed one of Tipton’s most convincing performances in the field this season. Shaw’s stunning catch at long off to dismiss Steve Trott off Birch was undoubtedly the highlight of the innings.

By the time Tipton batted, conditions were still tricky, so the watchful opening partnership shared by Phil Tolley and Keith Collins was essential in taking the score past 50 and to within reach of victory.

Collins departed straight after launching a huge straight six, but Gibbins, Pickering and John Williamson were able to give Tolley enough support to take him to an assured 59 not out and Tipton past their target.