A STUNNING 142-run partnership and a tremendous five wicket haul saw Buckhurst Hill canter to victory in their weekend derby clash with Harlow in Division Two.

Ian Russell (86 not out) and Josh Peters (75 not out) put Hill out of sight with a sensational stand, after Harlow had briefly threatened to get back into the game.

A total of 263-2 proved a hurdle too far for the visitors, as Jeremy Modrick picked up where his team-mates left off, skittling two of Harlow’s top four, before ripping through the middle order.

Meanwhile, a brilliant century from opener Robert Marshall couldn’t inspire Woodford Wells to a victory over Hainault & Clayhall at the weekend, as the local team was forced to settle for a draw in their Premier Division clash.

Robert Smith enjoyed a return of three wickets for Wells, but Marshall was the star turn, as he smashed 14 fours and one maximum during his scintillating innings, while he found strong support from Andrew Richardson (52 not out).

The team finished 38 runs adrift of the winning mark, but the result has helped keep their heads above the relegation zone.

Elsewhere, Wanstead’s title charge took a hit as they went down by six wickets to Chelmsford.

Despite the loss the Herons remain in touch with leaders Brentwood.

There was better news for South Woodford, as an impressive knock of 94 from Asher Gilani and half centuries from Nick Browne and Pratik Acharya guided them to the magical 300.

However, they didn’t allow themselves enough time to bowl out their opponents Gidea Park, falling two wickets shy of victory.

In Division One, Chingford came within a whisker of a morale-boosting win, but local rivals Ilford sneaked home with just one wicket to spare, after the visitors had posted a competitive 269.

Shaun McMurray and Ryan Harris claimed three wickets apiece, but they couldn’t find the all-important tenth scalp.

Meanwhile, Seb Gallagher’s unbeaten knock of 84 steered Loughton towards the top of Division One as he helped the local team overcome Westcliff.

Tony Palladino had earlier claimed four wickets to restrict the away side, and Gallagher took up the reins to complete the job.

Fives & Heronians clung on to register a draw with Orsett, while Walthamstow were well-beaten by Shenfield in Division Two.

Irfan Riaz’s superb ton helped propel West Essex to third in Division Three, as they overcame local rivals Ongar by 110 runs.

Old Parkonians also enjoyed a derby day victory, as they eased past Woodford Green, while Epping went down against Stanford.