CREWE claimed their second victory of the season in a close-fought finish at Eccleshall seconds.

The Vagrants kept it tight with Louis Bacon skittling Eccleshall top scorer Tom Hibbert (74) and Ollie Jarvis taking two quick wickets as the home side threatened to overhaul Crewe's 197-8.

Eventually, Crewe held on for a three-run victory with Bacon and Shajait Ali, like Jarvis, taking two wickets apiece as Eccleshall finished on 194-8 from their 40 overs.

Openers Chris Barratt (45) and Sam Goodier (35) had set Crewe off on the right tracks and Jarvis also posted a 39 in a good batting display.

The win moved Crewe up to ninth in the North Staffs and South League Division Three table.

Crewe's seconds beat Hem Heath by four wickets after chasing down a target of 106 in the 24th over.

Maxi Gay top scored with 34 and the victory kept Crewe in promotion contention in third spot in Division Eight.