GILLAMOOR and Spout House met twice in three days in the Feversham League – with honours even.

At Spout House, Gillamoor’s hopes of retaining the title were dented as they were edged out by three runs.

Gills’ decision to insert the hosts backfired when Spout House openers Charlie Allott (11) and Dan Medd (22) lashed 31 off six overs.

They both fell to Adam Durrant (2-12) but an unbroken 30-run stand between Barry Wheldon (31no) and James Allison (11no) took them to 83-3 in their 18 overs.

In reply, Ian Smith (22) - removed by a brilliant Warren Jones catch off Alison (2-22) - led the chase.

With 10 runs to win, Jack Brian (14) was run out by keeper Allott. Mark Farrar (3-17) then achieved a double wicket maiden. Off the final over, Gills required seven runs but, after Liam Allenby struck three, Farrar had the last man stumped by Allott - who finished with three stumpings, a catch, and that run-out. Dan Smith also took 3-19.

Gills gained revenge at home. Matt Durrant made 24 and, although Jonathon Leckenby’s 3-11 halted progress, all-rounder Alec Medd (39no) hit 26 off the last over to take them to 109-9.

House were never in contention in reply and Medd removed the tail-end with 5-8 - Spout House all out for 69.