DOMINANT Swindon GWR were almost denied victory after outplaying Moreton on the Marsh in their Cherwell League division three match.

The team were never in danger of losing the match, but their hosts threatened to cling on for a draw. However, GWR claimed the final wicket with just three overs remaining to continue their fine run of wins and enhance their promotion prospects.

Seamer Andy Stevens was the hero of the day, claiming 6-32 off his 15 overs as his side chipped away at the hosts' batting and won through by 43 runs.

GWR' batsmen showed great determination in the sluggish conditions.

Luke Leach, Mark Flay, Chris Rogers and Darren Beasant all passed 20 as they posted a respectable total of 148 for six.

Moreton were always struggling to reach their target. GWR welcomed back paceman Pete Fullam, who has been unable to bowl this season because of a back injury.

Despite only operating at half pace, he still caused the batsmen problems and he will be a more than useful addition to the side.

First change Stevens captured wickets at regular intervals and the only question was whether the home side could hang on. Commendably, they kept pressing for the win, but their last man was winkled out to give GWR the points.

Beasant said afterwards: It was a solid team effort. We fielded very athletically. We caught our catches and they didn't, and that was probably the difference.

Luke Leach was outstanding behind the stumps. He is probably the best keeper in the county.

When we batted, it was fairly slow. They were not bad bowlers and in those conditions, it was a reasonable score.