A second successive defeat for Methley meant they are now only one point in front of Wrenthorpe and only four ahead of a Townville side that is getting stronger as the season progresses.

The only consolation was that they prevented Townville from earning maximum points by batting out their 50 overs. But Townville had by far the better of the derby game as they went in first and posted a big score in making 246-6 against their opponents' strong bowling attack.

Peter Hepworth top scored with an unbeaten 70 while Adam Walton contributed 44 and the pair put on 116 for the sixth wicket. Opener Hamid Khan (38) and Brad Cachopa (37) had given the hosts a good start before Methley fought back through spinner Mick Waite (3-52 from 14 overs).

Methley's reply got off to a poor start as they were three down for 19. Craven (27) and Ryan Bradshaw (33) set about rescuing the position in a stand of 52, but only two other batsmen made double figures – Chris Smith (28) and Mark Frost (19 not out) – as they settled for batting out time to deny the hosts full points.

They finished on 142-8 with Jonathan Booth taking 2-2, Richie Bresnan 2-11, Andy Carrington 2-46 and John Rickers 1-21.

With three defeats from their last five league matches, Methley are in need of a quick boost after holding a 13-point lead just two weeks ago and they go to Ossett this Saturday, while Townville face a tough match away to reigning champions Birstall.