RAINFORD continued their recent improvement with a hard fought draw at home to Maghull in the Bridging Finance Solutions Liverpool Competition Premier Division.

After the visitors had declared on 204 for 9 after 60 overs Rainford resolutely pursued their target until eventually holding out on 175 for 9.

Acting captain Andy Davies’ decision to invite the visitors to bat first paid immediate dividends when four Maghull batsmen were sent back to the pavilion with just 20 on the board.

Sairaj Patel (52) and Chris Tonge (49) then led a Maghull recovery before Andrew Pickavance (4 for 69) and Davies (3 for 66), both from lengthy spells, put the brakes on once again.

Rainford suffered from a similar poor start losing early wickets very cheaply before South African Nic Hendrie put them back in the game with 91.

After he perished, Pickavance (22 not out) led the resistance and was joined at the crease with four overs to go by last man John Dotters.

The pair showed plenty of resolve to see their side safely through to a second consecutive draw.

On Sunday the 2n IX1 lost by 91 runs at Wallasey in a Chester Cup quarter final tie.