A MATCH-WINNING 78 from in-form batsman James Scott helped secure another vital win for Purley against fellow relegation strugglers Walton-on-Thames.

In a rain-affected match, Purley had to chase down 160 from 33 overs and managed it with an over to spare.

Keith Medlycott won the toss and inserted Walton but Adnan Saleem and Nav Chaudry struggled for length and line early on. Chaudry did pick up the wicket of Matt Howells, caught by Kapilan Balusubramaniam but Stuart Houghton at the other end looked in good touch.

James Scott and Assad Naeem were brought on and it was no surprise when Shaun Cox was bowled by a Scott full toss.

Chris Harrison was dismissed in the most unfortunate way possible, driving Naeem's full delivery back only for the bowler to touch it on to the stumps at the non-striker's end.

Bainbridge added 29 before he was bowled by Medlycott, who, along with Razi Khan, restricted the batsmen to singles.

With 10 overs to go Walton were on 150-4 but with a powerplay in hand they knew they could greatly accelerate.

But Andy Macdonald then picked up the vital wicket of Houghton (82) who attempted to pull him over midwicket for six but only found Sean Boyes who took a good catch five yards off the boundary. Alex Senneck passed 50 as well but Walton were unable to capitalise on the powerplay and finished on an under par 201-4 from their 50 overs.

The heavens opened and play was delayed meaning Purley had to chase 160 off 33 overs, a target that seemed large in context with the match.

But rules are rules and they would need to bat aggressively to win the game.

Fuaad Syed (0) was caught behind off Nicholas Kent early on after some excellent opening overs but John Fry went on the attack and hit some fantastic shots to give Purley back the initiative.

He and debutant Sean Boyes put Purley in a good position at 50-1 before Boyes was caught behind off Charlie Bryant for 19.

James Scott looked in superb touch after his 147 against Spencer and hit some mighty blows all round the wicket, helping Purley to 100-2.

With more rain clouds circling, Fry and Scott took the powerplay to get the victory as soon as possible, but it seemed naive when Fry was bowled by Senneck for 41.

Medlycott provided some much needed composure to regain the momentum and Scott passed 50 with another fine six over midwicket.

Scott cleared the fielder at long-on off Bainbridge and another well-hit four off the next over took the hosts to their much-needed win.

With four games left Purley know the winner of the game against Epsom tomorrow (Saturday) will go a long way towards maintaining Division One status.