CRICKET: Elusive century at last for Malik.

Byline: JOHN BRIDGWATER

ZIADMALIK cracked his first-ever century as Llanidloes got back to winning ways with a comfortable eight-wicket success over Cound in the Banks's Shropshire League Division One. The youngster, who has been dismissed on 99 no fewer than three times this term,finally reached his milestone with 104 as Llani successfully chased Cound's 214-9.

Andrew Evans was another half-century maker,hitting 56 in an opening stand of 122 to set the visitors on their way.

Malik had also starred with the ball in taking 5-37.

Rob Jones,for his part,claimed two victims, whileGraham Trow top-scored with 79 for Cound.

Montgomery faltered again, slipping to a seven-wicket defeat against Pontesbury.

Batting first,Monty were well placed on 140-2 but struggled to 193 -9 in 45 overs,Tim Swanson top scoring with 64, whileRob Kinsey was run out for 41. Pontesbury were made to work for the runs but came good in the end, getting home in the last over. Welshpool maintained their promotion push in Division Two, courtesy of a convincing seven-wicket win over Trysull & Seisdon at Maesydre.

Three wickets from pace man Greg Jones helped restrict the visitors to 145- 9 in 45 overs, withRupert Shingler and Alan Williams claiming two wickets apiece.

Pool encountered few problems in reply as they cruised home to consolidate second spot, with opener Bill Ransford finishing unbeaten on 54 and Chris Owen not out on 41.