THE title-winning days could be coming back to Bacup!

The team which lifted the Lancashire League title three years running from 2000-02 moved ominously to within two points of leaders Ramsbottom yesterday.

And it was that man again - Chris Cairns - who led the way.

Cairns took seven for 26 as the visitors were skittled out with just 79 on the board.

James Cunliffe (40) and Paul Gallagher (33) did the job with the bat as Bacup continued their winning streak.

The Lanehead side closed the gap on Ramsbottom after the leaders were thrashed by Burnley at Turf Moor.

Graham Lalor took 5-22 as the Rams collapsed from 60-2 to 94 all out.

In reply, Jonathan Clare hit 47 and Jon Harvey an unbeaten 28 as Burnley got home with 28 overs to spare!

The win means Burnley will also fancy themselves for a title tilt after they moved to within seven points of the leaders.

Lowerhouse's chances of defending their crown took a dive at Bentgate where Haslingden won by five wickets in a game dominated by the bowlers.

The champions were tamed by Tama Canning, who recorded seven maidens in his first eight overs, and eventually ended the day with figures of five for 19.

Chasing a target of 109 to win, Haslingden struggled as Aussie pro Ryan Harris took four wickets.

But Stuart Catterall and Lewis McIntosh held firm to see their side to 12 valuable points.

Fifteen-year-old Simon Hanson had a debut to remember, scoring 26 and helping Accrington to a victory over Todmorden.

Paul Turner became the first amateur to pass the 500 mark for the season as East Lancs beat Rawtenstall on run-rate.

Turner hit a superb 66 as the home side made 216 for 9.

With the visitors needing 136 to win on run-rate after rain affected the game, Mark Orchard struck and Rawtenstall finished 17 runs short.

Nelson lost to Enfield in a rain-affected match, while Church took the points against Colne.