LIPHOOK & Ripsley gave Southern Electric Premier League Division One leaders New Milton a real scare at Ripsley Park on Saturday.

New Milton, chasing the home side’s 191-9, were 62-5 at one stage, but were pulled back from the brink of defeat by Toby Edwards who counter-attacked with a 66-ball 84, hitting six fours and six sixes.

Edwards and Lee Beck added 87 in a crucial partnership, but when Charles Janczur dismissed Edwards, New Milton were 182-7 and still in trouble.

However, Nick Elliott and Nick Gargaro dragged their side over the line with just three balls to spare.

Earlier, Rob Nicklin and Chris Martin had established Liphook’s innings with an opening stand of 114, both completing half-centuries.

The Milton bowlers came back well, with George Watts taking 3-14 in nine overs.

Another 20 or so runs, and Liphook could have claimed a notable scalp.