Eddie Abel hit a century but was denied a victory celebration for his efforts as Alton gamely held on for a draw in what was always an open, fascinating encounter at Bemerton.

South Wilts totalled 248, with Alton holding out for a draw at 227-9 with their last pair at the crease.

But a share of the spoils was sufficient to keep South Wilts 24 points clear of Havant at the top of the Southern Electric Premier League.

Abel’s first century of the season – he struck 15 fours after surviving a vociferous appeal for a catch when he ball appeared to strike his helmet – provided the platform for South Wilts.

Jack Mynott (25) and James Hayward (28) provided the initial support, while Jake Foley hit an important 24 later on.

Spinner Jack Myers wheeled away, celebrating his first five-wicket Premier League haul before Julian Ballinger (4-43) ended the innings.

Alton were always in the game, with Ryan Hale (37) and Will Phillips (48) taking their reply into treble figures.

Scott Myers (29) and Dewayne Bowden (25) kept the pot boiling as South Wilts continued to attack, keeping the game open.

Rob Franklin (3-70) removed three of that top order, but wicketkeeper Abeed Mohammed’s 35 certainly maintained Alton’s interest.

But when James Hibberd (4-31) took two wickets in an over and then took a blinding catch to remove Jack Myers off Hayward’s arm ball, South Wilts sniffed victory.

Last pair Ballinger and Tom Paul held out to ensure Alton a draw at 227-9.