THE start was delayed at Brinkburn Road by damp conditions and the game was reduced to 46 overs per side.

On a bowler-friendly pitch David Eckels (41) played an anchor role for the home side.

Tim Hood with three early wickets gave Marske a fine start and Stuart Mackay bowled well tacking four wickets, to keep RA down to 105 for nine.

Australian professional Paul Thomas bowled a tight line and length and made Marske struggle for their runs. Patient 30s from Hutton and Wiltshire were the mainstay of the Marske innings, but with wickets falling a surprise result seemed possible.

Once again Robin Walker coming in at number nine saved the day for the visitors. For the second week running he hit a valuable 20 to earn a two-wicket win with two overs remaining.

Marske won by two wickets, Marske 20 pts, DRA 5 pts.

Darlington RA 105 for 9 (D J Eckels 41, P Hague 15no, S Mackay 4-33, T S Hood 3-25); Marske 106 for 8 (J Wiltshire 32, S Hutton 30, P Thomas 6-34, A Russell 1-25).

Marske entertain Blackhall at Windy Hill Lane tomorrow.