OXENHOPE returned to winning ways as their batting line-up finally lived up to its potential in a seven-wicket victory against Stones in Halifax League Division One.

It was, however, the bowlers who set the standard as Nathan Storton (4-49) and Scott Mallinson kept the home openers under control with eight maidens from the first ten overs and just 22 runs conceded in the first 14. Runs came down the order but the slow start restricted Stones' total to 220-6.

Craig Bartlett (41) and Tom Mawer (21) gave Oxenhope's innings a good start but the measured partnership between Stuart Jackson (84no) and Josh Fleetwood (57) proved the match winner.

Oxenhope II's losing streak continued as their ten men succumbed to a tame defeat to Queensbury.

The home side were encouraged by dismissing the visitors for just 189 after they had enjoyed a strong start, Duncan Tetley (6-41) and Eddie Jackson (3-36) taking the wickets.

In reply, however, only Brendan Ellison (29) and Duncan Tetley (18) troubled the scorers in a season-low total of just 99 for Oxenhope II. Jack Richardson took 5-46 and Andrew Bruce 4-39.