THE rain came to Stocksfield’s rescue after a woeful start at table topping Ryton.

The top order slumped to 19-4 as Northumberland and Tyneside Senior League A2 leaders Ryton caused early problems, the rain coming down and preventing any more damage.

David Howorth was in devastating form with the ball as he claimed Ben Archer, Andy Wood and Alex Brown all for ducks, conceding just three runs in total.

Akhtar got in on the act to dismiss Dan Whiley who was caught by wicketkeeper Liam Clarke, the Stocksfield equivalent one of three catches from behind the stumps.

Tris Douglas kept his head for Stocksfield and was joined by Steven Henderson, with the game coming to an end halfway through the ninth over.

Tynedale’s game with Percy Main in Division A1 lasted just three overs, the home side making their way to 15 by this point.

Sam Mannion was bowled by Barry Stewart, with Jamie Cricthon and Patrick Matautaava looking to build up a big score before time was called on the game due to the rain.

Backworth raced to 60 runs within 12 overs as they traveled to Corbridge in the Northumberland Cricket League, but both teams ended the game with five points.

The away side’s openers Alan Robson and Ben Sutton pushing the score on rapidly, particularly opener Robson who put on 40 runs. Russell Perry was the pick of the Corbridge bowlers as he went for just 12 runs from his six overs.