Hadleigh closed the gap on the Division One promotion places with this derby victory over the stricken Old Boys.

Dave Leather blasted an unbeaten 80 to lead the way, with wicketkeeper-batsman Duncan Paveling weighing in with 53.

But Old Boys were kicking themselves after dropping both Paveling and Leather at crucial times.

The duo went on to provide the impetus to overtake Old Boys' 226-6 -- which had looked an impressive total.

Promising youngsters Aron Lucas (44) and Robert Dodson had set Old Boys on their way with an opening stand of 92, while skipper Chris Bunce (69), Lucas Bugeja (30) and James Blackmore (25) all weighed in.

Former skipper Steve Brown had done most to halt the Old Boys to their tally for Hadleigh, taking 3-45.

Mike Gridley (3-70) was the pick of the Old Boys bowlers, with his analysis including the prized scalp of India Test batsman Devang Gandhi for the second time this season.

But Hadleigh won the day and spokesperson Mary Tibbenham said: "The club is definitely targeting promotion now. We're eight points behind Westcliff and closing on them."

Published Tuesday August 20, 2002

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