Rawtenstall 93-1, Accrington 90
23rd August 1981

Accrington 1st XI 1981 ©Stephen Blunt

Title chasing Rawtenstall had another convincing win over Accrington this time by 9 wickets at Bacup Road. Home professional Franklyn Stephenson was again in devastating form taking 7-38 to bowl Accrington out for 90. The West Indian had Graham Beech caught by Brian Payne without scoring before a run had been scored. The other opener Geoff Hayhurst (2) was trapped in front, professional David Stead (10) chipped a return catch and skipper Alan Richardson (20) and Adrian Varley (1) were clean bowled. Andy Gardener (4) was caught behind by Brian Manning and Ian Birtwistle (3) was caught by Steve Ashworth. Brett Storey chipped in with the wicket of Neil Jones (6) who was caught by Stephenson. John Beaumont had Billy Rawstron (15) caught by John Swanney and Roger Watson had Mick Donnelly caught by Manning for 13. Stead had Glenn Barlow (16) caught by Jones at 44, but Swanney (39 not out) and Watson (33 not out) saw Rawtenstall home in the 22nd over. Accrington drop one place in the table to 11th after 24 games. Scorecard

If you have any memories of 1981 please email Nigel Stockley