BOLTON Schools Under-15s won through to the second round of the Ainsworth Trophy with a 22-run victory over West Lancs at Ormskirk Cricket Club.

Batting first of a poor wicket, Bolton were struggling on just three runs for the loss of two wickets.

John Mulligan decided hard hitting was the answer and he scored an aggressive 37 while opener J. Crawforth stayed around for 24.

It was left to Daniel Rees (28 not out) and Shaun Fairbrother (13 not out) to take Bolton to 121-7.

West Lancs were also in difficulty at 17-3 as tight Bolton bowling restricted their progress.

Leg spinner Shaun Fairbrother took 2-17 from his eight overs, John Mulligan took 1-18 before the Barrow brothers took over with Chris taking 1-15 and Tim 2-30.

West Lancs finished on 99-8 following an excellent run out by Alex Connah.

Bolton's next match is on Friday at Kearsley CC against Tameside.

Bolton captain Paul Atherton has been selected for the Lancashire Schools Under-15 tour of South West England.

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