Angmering wrap up 17th successive title

Angmering had lost to title rivals Horsham two weeks ago – their first competitive defeat for five years – which led to the winner-takes-all match against Horsham at Broadbridge Heath.

Angmering won the toss and elected to bat but Max Chapman was run out in the fourth over, with Angmering on just 24 runs.

However, Laura Bull went to the crease and hit a rapid 82 not out, which included four sixes and five fours.

She was supported by Melissa Mantle, who opened the batting and was run out off the final delivery after scoring 76, which included nine boundaries. Angmering put on 76 in the final six overs to take the score to 182-2 from 15 overs.

In the field, Angmering gave an impressive display and Carole Nichols, who finished with 4-41, dismissed both openers in her first over.

Chapman caught the high-scoring Sue Targett on the boundary, while Sophie Parnell bowled superbly to end with figures of 1-38 and Angmering also had five run outs as Horsham were dismissed in the 12th over for just 79.

As Horsham had tied with Eastergate earlier in the season, Angmering retained the title for the 17th consecutive year.

Angmering captain Melissa Mantle said: “The display against Horsham was the best team performance I have ever had the pleasure to captain.

“The girls had learned from the defeat the previous week and were determined to prove that Angmering know how to win. Laura Bull gave a fantastic power batting display to demoralise the opposition.

“Sophie Parnell and Carole Nichols bowled with precision to a tactically perfect field. And the five run-outs typified the determination and unity of the team.”

Angmering now represent the West Division in the preliminary round of the League Championship at Nutley on Sunday (2pm). They play the North Division winners.