LIPHOOK & Ripsley recorded only their second league win of the season, beating third-placed Calmore Sports with just four balls to spare.

In an excellent contest at Ripsley Park, both innings featured one notable partnership, plus skilful late- order hitting.

For Calmore – inserted by Charles Janczur – Matt Hardy (64) and Ben Johns (79) put on 96 for the second wicket and the visitors were 170-2 at one stage. The later acceleration was provided by keeper Darren Vann who hit 42 not out off 26 balls, including three sixes.

Grant Rouse claimed three victims behind the stumps, but Liphook slipped well below their usual high standard both with the ball and in the field, and were left chasing 240 for victory.

Even so, they remained confident of getting the runs on a good track and fast outfield.

Steve Wright bowled Rob Nicklin for a duck. A bad start, but Ryan Covey (74) and Harry Munt (56) – both outstanding – then led the run-chase with an excellent partnership of 138.

When both batsmen fell to Mark Lavelle, Calmore scented blood and continued to make inroads as Liphook stuttered to 174-5.

George Neave came to the rescue with some typically aggressive strokeplay and with willing support from the late order, closed out the game for Liphook in the final over, finishing 42 not out.

This Saturday, Liphook host bottom side Hartley Wintney. On Sunday, Calmore return to Ripsley Park for a T20 Cup first-round match (start 3pm).