SULLY Centurions 1st XI made the journey to Monkswood and defeated the hosts by 80 runs to finish the season in the runners-up spot, ensuring promotion.

After agreeing on a reduced 40 over match, Centurions were asked to bat first on a pitch that had seen a significant amount of rain in the morning.

They got off to a good start, before Dan Chaulk was run out for 19. Rhett Jones (18) and Gethin Hicks (41) shared a half century stand as Centurions seemed to be getting to grips with the conditions.

This was followed by a knock of 31 from Callum Thomas, which seemed to consolidate Sully's dominance.

But the introduction of Mike Jones to the Monkswood attack put the brakes on Sully, as he returned figures of 4 for 25, to bring the home side back into the game.

However, some spirited late order batting, including a huge 6 from Jake Griffett (19) enabled Centurions to post a competitive total of 188 for 9 at the end of the 40 overs.

In reply, Centurions took early wickets. Nathan Cuddihy was soon showing the form that he has demonstrated all season and was responsible for the wickets of three of the top 4, the other being bagged by Gareth Thomas, who was responsible for removing top scorer Jones for 30.

But it was the introduction of spin that really turned the screw. Jake Griffett too 2 for 28 and a magnificent spell of 4 for 13 from Lloyd Bruce, brought the innings to a close on 108 all out. The celebrations began almost straight away and continued on the journey back to Sully.

Monkswood 108 all out, Sully Centurions 188-9

It was a different story for the 2nd XI, who ended a frustrating season with a home defeat to Blaengarw.

Some tight bowling from the visiting attack reduced Centurions to 26 for 4 after only 8 overs and, apart from 23 from Tej, the remaining batting also looked fragile.

At 106 for 9 Nick Jones was joined by veteran Dave Sylvester, who played the 'Jack Leach' role, holding up an end and scoring just one in a half century partnership for the last wicket.

When Jones went for a marvellous 75 in the last over, the score was a respectable 162 all out, giving Centurions some hope. Gillette (3 for 44) and Chambers (2 for 14) were the pick of the Blaengarw bowlers.

After tea, after Sinnott was bowled by Harish with the score on 19, the visitors gradually took control and, in spite of 16-year-old Seb Roach bagging three wickets for Sully, the target was reached in the 35th over for the loss of 6 wickets.

Sully Centurions II 162 all out, Blaengarw 163-6