FARNWORTH Social Circle reached the Hamer Cup final for the first time in 28 years after they recorded a semi-final victory against Astley Bridge.

Walkden also reached Bolton League's showpiece event with a convincing nine-wicket victory over Lostock on Sunday.

Ryan Ayres starred for the Piggott Park side scoring 70 not out as they opened the batting.

Andrew Lane then added 54 before David Tonge chipped in with 39 to set Astley Bridge a target of 239-6.

But the reply was shortlived as Dave Mather, the league's top wicket-taker with 64, bowled his second six-wicket haul of the weekend to set up a final showdown with Walkden, drawing praise from skipper Matt Parkinson in the process.

“It has been a very long time but we are delighted to be in the final,” he said.

“David Mather has been excellent and has continued his form from the last couple of years. He took six wickets Saturday and six Sunday. He is a quality player and a key part of our team.”

Walkden, who last won the cup in 2010, have lost only once in their 10 final appearances.

But that statistic does not scare skipper Parkinson.

“They are due a loss then,” he joked. “Walkden in the final is going to be a very tough game. They are a good set of lads with a very good pro. They have spent quite a bit of money on him and he can win a game on his own.

“We are taking it one game at a time. It could all fall apart if we are not careful so our focus is solely on Astley Bridge again next weekend.”

Tahir Maqsood starred with the ball for Walkden as they bowled out Lostock for 44.

Maqsood bowled a six-wicket haul at a cost of 25 runs. Sayed Shah provided decent back-up with figures of 3-16.

Only Nick Jeffs (18) hit double figures with the bat as six Lostock batsmen were bowled out for ducks.

Professional Aiden Markram made short work of the reply scoring 26 as Lostock were seen off within eight overs.

The final is scheduled for Sunday, August 14.

Results

Astley Bridge 90 Farnworth Social Circle 239-6. Farnworth Social Circle won by 149 runs.

Walkden 45-1 Lostock 44. Walkden won by nine wickets.

The Birtwistle Cup final for second teams will be between Horwich and Westhoughton and the toss for venue was made last night.