Town and United hold station despite defeats

United remain in fifth despite the 65-run loss at Barrow as their remarkable first season back in the top flight continues.

A punishing innings of 135 in 128 balls from skipper Ramesh Kara was the backbone of the Barrow innings as the hosts were bowled out for 272.

Rob Townsend was the pick of the Barkby bowling, his 4 for 62, allied with Aiden Morris’ 3 for 37 preventing a bigger score to chase.

In reply, Barkby slumped to 93-5, but a quickfire 78 from Will Fazackerley gave the visitors renewed hope.

But his departure sparked a collapse as Barkby lost their last five wickets for 27 to be bowled out for 207.

United return to Beeby Road on Saturday against Market Harborough (12.30pm).

Syston could only post 212-9 from their 50 overs against Loughborough despite 97 from Umar Razzaq as Leicestershire bowler Ollie Freckingham claimed 3 for 38.

George Corbett (2 for 40) struck with the very first ball, but a second-wicket stand of 154 between Rishi Patel (107) and Charles Lowen (63) eased second-placed Loughborough to a four-wicket win inside 30 overs.

Syston lie sixth and visit Sileby on Saturday.