TRIPS to mid-table Crompton always seem to hold something for the unwary visitor, and it was certainly true for sixth-placed Unsworth.

Batting first was always going to be something of a trial, as the home bowlers knew just how to extract the best from a bad pitch.

This resulted in them sending back to the pavilion both Unsworth openers with the score on just seven.

Things didn't improve when paid man Robbie MacQueen arrived at the crease, either.

He was caught for just two by opposite number, Glebe Street pro Saeed Anwar.

Wickets continued to fall as the visitors stuttered towards 59-7 off 37 overs.

Only 28 from Graeme Jones, and a sparkling 32 off 55 balls from Steve Barlow gave the score any respectability, as the visitors limped to a total of 110 all out.

Was there any hope? Well, when Graham fell to the third ball from Alan Badenhorst yes, and the Unsworth spirits were raised a few levels - but only briefly.

His departure brought Anwar to the crease and with the big South African forced out of the attack with an injury, Anwar took the Unsworth bowlers on and tore into them.

His 69 not out led the home side to a victory with 22 overs to spare and open up the top of the CLL table.

Things don't get any easier this Saturday when Pole Lane men host second-placed to Norden