PROFESSIONAL Dale Benkenstein steered Netherfield to a comfortable seven-wicket derby victory over Kendal with an unbeaten 75.

But after collecting 12 points for the win, Netherfield still trail new leaders Fleetwood by 10 points after they also took the same number of points in a victory over Blackpool.

Two weekends remain in the Northern Premier League championship with Netherfield at home to Leyland then away to Morecambe.

Fleetwood are away to both St Annes and Fleetwood.

In the Bank Holiday derby clash, Kendal chose to bat after winning the toss following a delayed start because of a wet wicket at 2.15pm.

Kendal posted a score of 146-7 off 42 overs, with Terry Hunte top-scoring on 37 and notable contributions from David Fallows 31, Ahmed Elech 21 and Ikram Ullah 18.

Leg-spinner Marc Hadwin was Netherfield's most successful bowler with 4-23, having taken 4-9 at one stage.

Netherfield reached 39 in reply before losing Craig Walmsley, who had made 30, but Benkenstein could not be budged and brought up the victory smoothly with 75, albly supported by Chris Parry with 22 for a score of 147-3.