ST HELENS Town played at lowly Alder looking for a win to maintain their title bid in the Liverpool Competition Second Division.

Unfortunately, the contest was affected by rain.

Batting first, Town’s new opening partnership of Ian Knowles and Craig Woods set about the Alder bowlers in an effort to get quick runs before the heavens opened.

The 50 partnership came off eight overs, Knowles hitting 40 off 35 balls before being bowled.

He was soon followed by Woods, also bowled by a ball scooting along the floor of a short pitched delivery.

James Davies continued to go for quick runs, his 50 coming off as many balls.

With support from Gaz Williams (32) the pair added 90 runs, with Davies on 63 not out when Town declared at 173 for 4 off 27 overs.

Rain then prevented any further play.