NETHERFIELD’S Second team won the Palace Shield Division One B League title after they defeated Leyland by nine wickets in the final league game of the season.

The seconds, who have been top of the division throughout the whole season went into the final game knowing that they needed just five points to secure their first league title for a number of years.

However, in the build up to the final game, Netherfield were dealt a potentially crucial blow after they were deducted three points by the league which left the team under some pressure in what could have been a difficult game.

Despite the points deduction, the seconds were in dominant form where they routed Leyland during the first innings after Daniel Bernets return of 4-17 and Bertie Medhursts return of 3-19 saw Leyland bowled out for just 96 off 44.3 overs.

With the league title in sight, Dan Gaunts undefeated 43 off 45 balls and Isaac Medhursts 32 off 40 saw the seconds edge closer, before Gaunt and Josh Charles finished the game off as Netherfield closed on 97-1 off just 17.2 overs.

After the team's league title success, second team captain Dan Gaunt shared his thoughts on the victory: “On the back of a Covid-affected 2020 season, we were all keen to get underway in to the season, and it did not disappoint.

“It is never easy when starting a new season based on the troubles with availability so early on, but with the depth of talented youngsters within the club and a few new faces, our season commenced with a nine wicket win on a glorious day down at Parkside Road against Great Eccleston.

“This became a trend of our season, bowling teams out cheaply and knocking off the score with ease.

“Our bowling attack has been the strongest we’ve had in years, helped by having the overseas playing in the 2nds after complications with the Northern League.

“Dan Bernet claimed 56 wickets at an average of 9.63.

“Our young buck Bertie Medhurst also impressed with the ball, working hand in hand with Dan Bernet on more than one occasion, who claimed 39 wickets at an average of 16.03.

“The seamers Robbie Dwyer, James Morgan, Josh Irving, Dan Shorrock, Isaac Medhurst and Vaughan Samson all impressed with the ball, throughout the season.

“The highlight would be Dan Shorrocks hat-trick down at Parkside Road against our season rivals Longridge.”