The battle for promotion to Division One of the Norfolk Alliance will go to the final day of the season after Beccles lost to the side immediately below them, Hethersett & Tas Valley, at the weekend.

The gap between the second and third placed teams was reduced to just three points as Valley successfully defended a modest total of 168 at Flordon, with the visitors being dismissed for only 107.

Jon Curtis was the star for the home side, hitting 75 to score almost half of their runs before returning the impressive figures of 3-23.

For Beccles Alex Wright led the way with the ball with 9-2-21-4 while their highest score was just 19, achieved by David George and Matt Lowe.

Beccles have a second chance to clinch promotion tomorrow (12.30pm) when they host Downham A while Valley will be hoping for the best there while ensuring they win their final match at Great Witchingham A.

Topcroft all but sealed a swift return to the second flight when they won at Bradenham, a result which condemned their hosts to the drop.

Greg Rostron’s 61 not out helped them up to 207-6 and that proved to be more than enough as Bradenham were dismissed for 115 (Rostron 3-12, Henry Parkinson 3-39).

Topcroft round off their campaign with a home fixture against Ashmanhaugh and Barton Wanderers.

Beccles A turned in a battling performance against Division Four champions-elect Garboldisham A before going down by four wickets.

Ben Milburn made 49 in a solid total of 175-9 but it was not enough as the visitors finished on 179-6, with nearly seven overs to spare.

Beccles seconds, who will finish either fifth of sixth, visit Hethersett & Tas Valley A in their final game of the season tomorrow.