A BEN Owen half-century guided Woolhope to victory as they took a stride towards the GB Liners Marches League Division Two title.

Woolhope were on 35-2 when he arrived at the crease and his contribution helped them to a commanding 158-6 in their tie against Ross-on-Wye.

Skipper Will Green also contributed with 40 off 44 balls as his side set a target of 206-9 off their 45 overs.

In response all-rounder Andrew Bevan hit an early 61 to give his side hope at 100-5 before wickets began to tumble and they were bowled out for 136.

The win leaves Woolhope 17 points above Dales, after the former leaders were knocked off top spot following a three-wicket defeat by Canon Frome.

The low scoring encounter saw opener Jack Rowsell top score for Dales on 28 as Christopher Boyson took 4-33 bowling them out for just 91.

In reply opener Sam Pratley set Canon Frome up for victory hitting 38 off 43 balls and despite

Wayne Bufton providing figures of 4-19 with the ball the visitors reached 92-7 for victory.

The win gives Canon Frome chance of title glory as they sit 24 points behind the leaders with a game in hand, they also meet Woolhope in two weeks time.

The Division One title race is equally as intense with four teams separated by just 15 points going into the last two matches.

Wormelow regained pole position this weekend after all but ending Kington’s title hopes with a six-wicket victory.

Tom Cutler was the home hero as he picked up career best figures of 8-14, which included five maidens as they bowled Kington out for just 46 off 19.1 overs.

Kington fought back with the ball and skipper Michael Green picking up three wickets. However, the calmness of Jasper Linley-Adams and Edward Melly saw the hosts to victory.

Reigning title holders Luctonians are on the back foot once again after they were knocked off the top spot following a 134-run defeat by fellow hopefuls Garnons.

After a solid start Theodore Spreckley hit a half-century as Garnons raced to a target of 191.

With the ball Alan Jones (5-12) and Joel Alderson (4-23) skittled through the Luctonians attack as they fell for just 57.

Goodrich also remain in the title hunt following a nine-wicket win over Brockhampton thirds.