RYAN Covey, standing in as captain for Glastonbury fan Charles Janczur, led Liphook to a comfortable win over his former club, Sarisbury Athletic, at Ripsley Park.

Liphook’s fifth victory in eight matches puts them up to fifth in the tightly packed top half of the table behind Calmore Sports, clear leaders of the Southern Premier League Division One.

Covey top-scored with a patient 60 off 82 balls and shared an impressive opening partnership of 110 with brother Richard Covey who also reached a half-century.

Sarisbury spinner Ricky Rawlins then removed Ryan Covey, Suman Ganguly and Mainak Ray in sharp order, but a diligent sixth-wicket stand of 55 between Grant Rouse and Harry Munt, plus a useful knock from Jonny Pryce, saw Liphook to a commanding 251 all out in the 50th and final over.

Sarisbury made a shaky start against Ganguly and Ryan Covey and the top three were soon back in the pavilion.

Liphook were well served by some fine catching, not least the two diving efforts by former keeper Chris Martin.

Skipper Matt Journeaux (48) and Jamie Dunn (53) then made a valiant effort to turn the game around, adding 88 runs in rapid time. However, Munt chipped in with a vital 4-33 in nine overs and with fellow spinner Mainak Ray taking 3-36 in 10, Sarisbury tumbled to 189 all out in the 44th over, Liphook winning by 62 runs.

Liphook host struggling Rowledge in a local derby this Saturday (start 1pm at Ripsley Park).