Lordswood are the new leaders of the Shepherd Neame Kent League Premier Division after they defeated Blackheath by two wickets at the Rectory Field on Saturday.

Richard Piesley (pictured), the Lordswood captain, won the toss and invited their hosts to bat, a decision that was vindicated as Blackheath were restricted to 182-8.

The Lordswood attack was steady, with both Alistair Neale and Chris Piesley picking up three wickets apiece. Lordswood were made to fight hard for their victory and the match was in the balance at 155-8, but Dan Masters (20 not out) joined Richard Piesley (17 not out) to guide them home.

Hartley jumped into second place after defeating Sibton Park by four wickets at Lyminge. David Thompson (4-19) led the way as Sibton Park were dismissed for a meagre 96, and then Hartley romped to their target in just 22 overs thanks to Dan Stickels (38 not out) and Scott Mckechnie (34 not out).

The Mote narrowly failed to lift themselves out of the bottom two after just missing out on victory over Tunbridge Wells. Gregor Paterson scored a fine 113 for Wells and with Geoff Paulsen (66) providing good support, they made a useful total of 292-7.

The Mote batsmen rose to the challenge, led by skipper Tom Harvey (114) and 70 from James Hodgson. However, they could not manage the 24 required from the last two overs, ending five runs short to provide Tunbridge Wells with a winning draw.

Bromley were denied four extra points as the rain came with them seemingly set to defeat Bexley at Plaistow Lane. After being put in Bexley made 218-9, with three wickets apiece for James Butterfill and Ricaldo Anderson. Butterfill then went on to make a useful 61 and Matt Dennington was unbeaten on 50 when rain ended play with Bromley just eight runs short of victory with four wickets and 8.5 overs in hand.

John Bowden added to the list of centurions on the day as his fine 106 helped Sevenoaks Vine to set their visitors, Bickley Park, a target of 261. James Day (5-65) made the going tough for Bickley and they finished on 206-8, producing a winning draw for Vine.