Ampfield (169 for 9) beat Twyford (144ao) by 25 runs AMPFIELD'S improvement continued as they collected another victory at Hunter Park last Saturday.

Put in to bat, Ampfield were soon losing wickets and collapsed to 55 for 6, with only Safi Sahib (23) offering much resistance.

A revival was called for and Charlie Baynes (22) and skipper Frank Dixie (37) provided just that. They were backed up by John Course (34) and closed at 169 for 9, feeling that the tide was turning their way.

When Twyford started they were away to a fast start and rattled up 75 before losing their first wicket when course took a low diving catch to remove the dangerous Chris Rose (39).

His partner, Kevin West, soon followed by skying a top edge to Richard Light just behind square for 32. This was Ampfield's chance and with tight bowling regularly picking up wickets another close finish could have been in store.

But Light (2 for 45) and Gavin St John (3 for 21) polished off the middle order and Martin Langridge (3 for 7) came on to rattle through the Twyford tail.

The result lifted Ampfield to sixth place, having won four of their six league matches so far.

Skipper Dixie commented: "The attitude and fighting spirit within the side this season is amazing.

"Just when it looked like we might be bowled out cheaply the tail wagged and the all round cricket being played is a credit to the club."

Ampfield entertain Locks Heath at the Recreation Ground this weekend (2pm).