AFTER five consecutive defeats, the last team Leigh CC would have chosen to face were reigning league champions Bootle and, although they were beaten once again, this was an improved performance that showed that their team spirit is still intact.

Paul Vallance chose to insert Bootle after winning the toss and his bowlers did well to contain the star studded visitors' batting line-up on a sweltering afternoon on a perfect batting wicket.

All of Bootle's first four batsmen achieved scores in the thirties and forties but they were, on the whole, made to work hard for their runs.

Barry Greenwood conceded only 51 runs off his first 12 overs before finishing with a creditable 3 for 89 and veteran spin bowler Chris Melia was unlucky to take only one wicket as he conceded only five boundaries in a fine 12 over spell. Visiting skipper Ian Cockbain declared after 44 overs with the total having reached 232 for 5.

Both Matthew Savka (20) and Ishtiaq Beg (17) provided early resistance in Leigh's response but a now familiar batting collapse saw them slump to 94 for 6 after Alex Roussak was dismissed for 16.

Steve Williams provided a spirited fightback with an aggressive knock of 40 including seven boundaries and he was assisted by 14-year-old starlet Joe M.Davies who scored 12 after having given a good account of himself keeping wicket during the afternoon.

Leigh were finally dismissed for 158 after Lancashire left arm spinner Stephen Parry had worked his way through their batting order as he took 7 for 71 off 20 overs.

With relegation threatening and a win desperately needed, Leigh travel to old rivals Wallasey on Saturday for their next match.