FRINTON marked outgoing skipper Mark Jones’ final game with a convincing four-wicket victory at home to Vauxhall Mallards.

It meant they finished as runners-up in their first season in the Gibbs Denley East Anglian Premier League.

With the visitors needing a 30-point victory to win the title, they had little option but to bat first after winning the toss.

However, it was not long before they were in trouble in conditions that suited the in-form Dan Carter, who removed all top-three batsmen for 31 runs.

With Mervyn Westfield taking a pair at the other end, Mallards were left stunned with five wickets down and only 32 runs on the board.

They offered no resistance until the arrival of former skipper Paul Bradshaw, who held his bat for an unbeaten 62.

But with little support forthcoming, Mallards were bowled out for 153.

Frinton got off to a solid reply but when the visitors introduced Northants fast bowler Olly Stone, they got a quick return when he bowled Mike Griggs for 16.

Ted Moulton stood firm with a solid 42, while both Matt Foakes and David Brent departed quickly.

Westfield then worked hard for his 46 and, in addition to Kyran Young’s 19, the fifth-wicket partnership of 42 took the game away from the Norfolk side.

Sri Lankan Gi Dilruk then took Frinton over the line with four wickets in hand and nine overs spare.

Frinton ended as runners-up and a delighted Jones said: “Swardeston were the best team in the league and deserved to win the title, but we’ve surprised everyone with our achievements this season and we’re now a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League.”

Jones also thanked his players and the club’s supporters.

“We have a great bunch of lads here and I know they’ll push on,” he said.