Minster claimed top spot in Kent League Division 3 for the first time this season after beating High Halstow by nine wickets on Saturday.

The win takes them above title rivals Upchurch by just two points and the two teams go head to head this Saturday.

High Halstow had gone into the game as Minster’s promotion rivals but ended the afternoon well beaten at Gilbert Hall.

Nathan Nichol (4-30) and Mark Tucker (4-44) both excelled with the ball as Minster bowled High Halstow out for just 135.

Just one wicket was lost in the reply, that of Neil Hosken (27), as Andy Hosken (51 not out) and Kevin Barker with an unbeaten 45 guided Minster home on 136-1 off 29.3 overs.

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