Invitation League: A superb batting display by Jim Downey helped Southwick to a crucial eight-wicket win at Ansty in division two.

Southwick leapfrog Ansty into second place and move to within 24 points of leaders Pulborough, who were without a game.

The home side got off to the perfect start when openers Richard Nichols (76) and Dave Croydon (64) put on 121 for the first wicket. Andy Hadfield then chipped in with 37 not out to leave Ansty in control as they declared on 217-4.

Downey had other ideas for the visitors and blasted a 35-ball 50 in just 39 minutes to turn the game on its head. Except for two singles, Downey scored all of his 62 runs with boundaries.

Fellow opener Nick King hit 66 as the visitors reached 104 in the 14th over. Dan Feniuk added 56 not out to seal victory as Southwick finished on 221-2 with seven overs to spare.

Scaynes Hill got back to winning ways with a three-wicket win at Crawley.

The visitors' decision to insert the hosts was the right one as Crawley were dismissed for 168, with Pragash Podiratnum (47) the only threat.

Hill reached the target in 40 overs thanks to unbeaten knocks by Paul Mackie (53 not out) and Paul Worsley (40 not out) in a 169-7 reply.

Barns Green had to settle for a draw at home to Billingshurst despite a third-wicket partnership of 103 between Nick Woodward (71) and Roger Southgate (50).

They helped the hosts put on 198-8, with Chris Shambrook (4-55) the best of the visiting bowlers. Hurst made 184-8 in reply, with Mark Upton 40 not out, despite the best efforts of Guy Thorne (4-83).

Keymer and Hassocks cruised to a comfortable ten-wicket win at bottom side Eastergate.

Eastergate, who have lost every game this season, were skittled for 127 and failed to pick up a wicket as Keymer reached 130-0 inside 28 overs with openers John Price (82 not out) and Tony Chad (44 not out) getting the runs.