Huge 167-run victory for Horncastle CC

Openers Matthew Hodgkin (80) and Paul File (52) set the standard early on as the hosts put together a wonderful 239-8 at the end of their 45 overs.

Matthew Mansey fell just short of his half century as he ended on an unbeaten 49, with Lewis Lovegrove (21) and Christopher Bargh (11) offering support.

Louth were dismissed for 72 with Martin Kirk (3-14) and Rory Hannam (3-18) leading the way with the ball.

Ashley Bullivant (2-8) and Adam Waters (1-7) added wickets against the 10-man opposition.

The result leaves Horncastle fifth in the Lincolnshire County League Fourth Division.

On Saturday they travel to sixth-placed Keelby Seconds (1pm).

Horncastle Sunday remain top of the Lincoln and District League Division Two, despite their contest against Blankney at Coronation Walk being cancelled due to rain.

Frustratingly for the league leaders this was their game in hand as rivals Hykeham were without a fixture.

However, they maintain a 24-point lead with three matches remaining.

This Sunday Horncastle are away at Barkston and Syston (1.30pm).