Leyland end Preston's winning sequence
Twenty20 Cup holders Preston suffered their first defeat in their last eight games in the competition as they lost to Leyland by five wickets in their final group game in South Two of the Latham Baxendale Twenty20 Cup.
Preston still top the group and will host Finals Day on Sunday 25 July.
At least Leyland, captained again by professional Brett Pelser had the satisfaction of ending their Twenty20 campaign with a well deserved victory. Although having no chance of progressing in the competition Leyland fielded their full-strength side and gave the Fox Lane regulars an entertaining evening.
Pelser led from the front taking four for 19 as Preston were restricted to 125 for 8. The talented Jonty McDonald, opened the innings and top-scored with 41 and Andy Roberts made 29 not out. Steven Pallett took two for 20 to support his captain. Preston played without a professional as captain Bilal Asad rested a back injury and they did not employ a sub-pro.
Lukman Vahaluwala captained a side missing several players who will form part of Preston's plans to defend their cup in a fortnight's time.
Luis Reece (30) and Pelser (31) were the main contributors as Leyland won with 4.3 overs to spare. Wicketkeeper Matthew Watkinson, promoted in the order made 19 and Nathan McDonnell was 17 not out at the close.
SCORES:
Preston 125 for 8 (J McDonald 41, B Pelser 4 for 19), Leyland 128 for 5
