WESTCLIFF moved to the Division Three summit after recording a 135-run triumph over Walthamstow.

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Westcliff reached 202/8 from their 50 overs at the crease.

And impressive bowling allowed Westcliff to skittle Walthamstow out for 67, much to the delight of captain Peter Barnes.

“It was a big toss to win,” said Barnes.

“If you set a good total, it’s really hard to chase at Walthamstow and you always stand a chance of bowling the opposition out.

“Our batting has been much improved this year and it has been nice to contribute in the last couple of weeks as I got off to a bad start this season.

“Our bowlers were superb and were backed up by some great fielding.

“But credit has to go to the batsmen for setting a tough total to chase on that ground.”

Although Charlie Lockhart was dismissed early, Barnes came to the crease and built a 48-run partnership with opening batsman Lewis Wright.

Barnes recorded 57 runs, while Wright added 30 to the total.

Alex Hatton was unbeaten with 37, in an innings which included two maximums.

Impressive Westcliff bowling meant just two of the hosts’ batsmen reached double figures as they were dismissed within 28 overs.

Adil Ali was the visitors’ most prolific bowler as he recorded figures of 6-12 from just eight overs.

And Barnes was full of praise for Ali, who also enjoyed four maidens.

Barnes added: “Adil Ali was outstanding and has improved week-by-week.

“His performance was even more impressive considering it’s Ramadan as well.

“But he needs to work on his celebration after taking a wicket!”