ESSEX League Premier Division leaders Chelmsford are four points clear of Brentwood with two games remaining following their 163-run win over hosts Loughton.

Ben Clifford’s 103 and 72 from Dan Hagan were the cornerstones of Chelmsford’s 329-7 declared innings, before Karamat Ali took 6-57 and Aaron Beard 3-40 to bowl Loughton out for 166 in reply.

The firsts host Wanstead & Snaresbrook on Saturday looking to strengthen their title bid.

Chelmsford’s second XI secured a five-wicket win over Chingford II with Harry Green (3-15) and Craig Thompson (3-24) helping bowl the visitors out for 126. Vithullan Sapaetharan (46) and Bradley Green (43) spearheaded Chelmsford’s 129-5 reply.

Chelmsford’s thirds were held to a draw at Wanstead & Snaresbrook who declared on 229-9 after Ian Hare claimed 5-63. Stephen Drain (53) and Chris Drain (49no) led the reply, which reached 151-6.

The fourths posted 162-5 to beat visitors Hornchurch V by five wickets after they scored 161 all out, while the fifths (272-4 dec) drew with Buckhurst Hill IV (177-9) after failing to capture the visitors’ final wicket.