"We are the champions" rang out around the village of Walsden for Walsden's 2nd team as they claimed a nail biting victory over Rochdale in the winner take all encounter for the Central Lancashire League 2nd Division Title. After 28 games starting in April the outcome of the title depended on the final ball of the season, just like the Burton Cup Final, but this time Walsden triumphed.

After beating Milnrow last Saturday by 7 wickets, Walsden went to Rochdale on top of the league and hoping not to be  the bridesmaid again.

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Rochdale asked Walsden to take first knock on a soft, green wicket which appeared to be bowler friendly. Mick Butcher and John Garland quickly got into their stride, the scoreboard ticking over quickly until Garland was caught behind with the introduction of  A Dodgson's slow left arm spin. Rochdale then put a strangle hold on Walsden's batting and wickets fell as the batsmen tried to up the scoring rate. Colin Hodgins top scoring with 26, including a mighty six which the fielder caught but in celebration fell over the boundary.   

All out for 143 Walsden left wondering had they enough runs on the board? At the tea time pep-talk Mick Butcher worked wonders, the blistering pace of Dean Copping and the unnerving accuracy of Chris Dewhirst caused chaos amongst the Rochdale batsmen. The first four batsmen returning to the pavilion clean bowled, 3 to Copping and one to Dewhirst. When Chris Pownall replaced Copping the fifth batsmen departed leg before wicket, half the team gone for 22. At 42 the dangerous P Butler was run out after good work by Pownall, Danny Bailey and Dewhirst, was victory within Walsden's grasp?

Chris Dewhirst continued to bowl brilliantly causing the Rochdale batsmen to play and miss continually, then he dismissed the Rochdale captain Ian Gilbertson. Copping returned to get his fourth wicket well caught by Albert Ross, Rochdale stood at 91 for 9 with Walsden on the brink of victory.

Rochdale's A Dodgson and 'Harry Potter' began to chance their arm with the bat, edging the ball between fielders or just short of getting caught. Despite excellent fielding by Walsden, especially Sam Crabtree, Kristian Halstead and Paul Marrow, when the final over arrived, Rochdale required 6 runs to win the match and title!

After bowling 24 consecutive overs it was left to Chris Dewhirst to show his strength and character to bowl Walsden to victory, 4 being required off the final ball of the season to decide who would be the champions.

The perfect outswinger, a swing, a miss, the champions! Walsden's Barmy Army ran onto the field to celebrate a first championship since 1915, sedately followed by the elder supporters. Final figures for Dewhirst 4 for 51 off 25 outstanding overs, Copping 4 for 31 well bowled, Walsden win by  3 runs.

Applause must go to the Rochdale players for their part in the match, the sportsmanship shown by them despite being disappointed was outstanding. The presentation of the trophy to Mick Butcher started the celebrations which went on well into the following morning. Hopefully the headaches will have ceased by the time this report is read. Well done Walsden.

The Champions!