ST ASAPH moved up to second in the North Wales Cricket League Premier Division standings after a convincing nine-wicket triumph at Hawarden Park.

The Saints kept their title hopes alive thanks to a dazzling bowling display that was the catalyst behind their success, and they are 27 points behind long-time pacesetters Menai Bridge with eight games remaining.

Jason Foulkes wasted no time in making his presence felt with the new ball by disposing of openers Jamie Brailsford and David Hughes for ten and 17, and he also took out the dangerous trio of Adam Cross (6) and, Joe Forde (0) and Jamie McDonald (0) to end a scintillating 12-over spell with figures of 5-28.

He was ably assisted at the other end by Richard Marsh-Evans, who despatched Craig Wilson (5), Jared Bennett (1) and Tom Norris (2) to finish on 3-19, with an unbeaten 26 from Ian Martin the only highlight of the hosts’ time in the middle as they were all out for just 81 after 31 overs.

Despite losing opener Mathew Ryan early on when he was clean bowled by Wilson after contributing just five, the in-form pair of Nathanael Scott and skipper Will Ryan ensured the away side reached their modest total with minimal fuss without losing another wicket.

Overseas star Scott hit seven boundaries on his way to a stylish 36 not out, with the Saints captain also finishing unbeaten on the same score from just 28 deliveries to secure a comfortable victory.

The city side face a make-or-break clash with championship favourites Bridge at Elwy Grove Park on Saturday, and nothing but a win will do against a side that has tasted league defeat just once so far this term.