ORSETT & Thurrock came out on the right side of a thrilling match against Fives & Heronians, winning by 12 runs in a tight encounter at the Paddock.

Orsett had Paul Bennett to thank for helping them to a big target, with his 99 inspirational in taking them to 253 in their 50 overs.

He was ably assisted by Umar Ayub who hit 42, with Mark Pavitt (33) also a key contributor as Orsett & Thurrock went about building a formidable score in the Shepherd Neame Division One clash.

Fives’ Fahad Iqbal took 5-43 and was the pick of the bowlers for the home team, as they made a strong start to their reply.

Gary Edwards (20), Terry Ballard (49) and Iqbal (69) helped Fives start strongly although only Greg Summers (18) and Jonny Kay (18 not out) looked likely in the lower order as they fell just short in a terrific run chase.

Orsett & Thurrock had Daniel Laird (3-47), Muhammad Rahim (2-42) and Shahid Khan (2-35) for helping them across the line and up into the promotion places.