WOODFORD WELLS won the weekend’s local battle as they muscled their way past South Woodford.

Openers Mario Dev Joannes Jayasuriya (46) and Rizwan Akram (38) made a strong start for South Woodford, but Rory Ellison soon removed them and number three Nick Browne.

The rest of the order failed to contribute heavily, and the hosts were soon skittled for 231.

It was a different story for Wells, however, as everyone chipped in. Robert Marshall (39) was bettered only by Michael Richardson, who remained undefeated at the crease on 73.

Elsewhere, Wanstead put themselves in contention for a late title charge with a comfortable six wicket win over Colchester & East Essex at the weekend.

Adnan Akram’s position as one of the premier batsmen in Essex’s top division was cemented once again with a fine knock of 71 not out, helping marshal his team past the visitors’ score of 178, which they managed for the loss of nine wickets.

The Herons have closed to within four points of second-placed Chelmsford, although they remain some way behind leaders Brentwood.

In Division Two, Loughton hold a two point lead at the top of the table following a professional performance against Hornchurch.

The 58-run victory came thanks to a splendid all-round display from Rizwan Qureshi. First, with bat in hand, he smashed his way to 83 before being caught.

But his work wasn’t finished there, as he then went on to claim five wickets with the ball to rip through Hornchurch’s middle and lower order.

Meanwhile, Chingford could yet mount a promotion challenge after an impressive bowling display set the batsmen up for a comfortable victory chase.

Shaun McMurray was the catalyst for Westcliff-on-Sea’s collapse, weighing in with four vital wickets.

The local side required 190 for the points, and they delivered in style. The opening pair of Robert Whitfield (62) and Matthew O’Sullivan (44) put in the hard yards to enable James Hill (31) and McMurray to apply the finishing touches.

There were incredible scenes at Basildon & Pitsea, as Fives & Heronians were forced to settle for a tie, after both sides were bowled out for 170.

The signs looked good for the visitors during the chase, as the middle order all made inroads.

However, an inexplicable collapse saw Rahul Bhome stranded at the non-striker’s end on 51.

In Division Three, Epping prevailed against local rivals West Essex, thanks in large to a terrific hundred from Dan Twitchett.

Terry Preston then took charge with the ball, taking four wickets, as West Essex crumbled to a convincing 106-run defeat.

Old Parkonians couldn’t take Benfleet’s last two wickets as they lost, while Ongar were beaten by Stanford Le Hope and Woodford Green held on for a draw against Belhus.