CROWLE eased to a 91-run victory at Peopleton but were taken to the last over by some resilient batting by the home side.

A hard-hitting partnership of 104 between Andy Hawes (52) and Dave Jessop (57) put Crowle on top. A quickfire 24 not out from skipper Lyndon Bendall ensured Crowle could declare on 209-9 at tea.

Peopleton lost wickets regularly as Bendall picked up five scalps and medium-pacer Nick Bawden claimed 3-19.

The hosts opted for the draw and mounted a stout defence, but Hawes and leg spinner Ian Millington chipped in with a wicket apiece before Bendall bagged the vital wicket in the final over.