ABERDEENSHIRE took full advantage of the weather window in the north by snuffing out the challenge of Glenrothes to effectively banish their relegation fears.

In the only match in the Eastern Premiership to dodge the downpours, Shire ruled in every facet of the contest and were well worth their 24-run success.

Skipper Chris Venske reckons the performance at Mannofield reflected the side’s fresh sense of consistency.

He said: “It was another very important win which shows we have started to find some rhythm.

“We have always understood whet we needed to do, but the positive aspect is that we are now executing these things.”

Venske led the way with 55, his opening stand of 74 with Kenny Reid proving to be the ideal foundation.

Ian Kirk weighed in with 34 to propel the hosts to 204.

Venske then underlined his all-round talents by taking four wickets as the Fifers were curbed to 180.

The captain shrugged off his own contribution to add: “Ian batted really nicely and I was really impressed with some of his stroke play.

“Then Connor Shorten bowled tightly.

“He, Ross Arbuckle and Rory Martin also kept the shackles on Glens to pave the way for the spinners to turn the screw in the middle part of their chase.

“Vasu Reddy his some big sixes for them to make the margin much closer than I would have liked, however I always felt we were in control.”

For the visitors, Reddy (49 not out) was the only batsman to pass 20, while Aidan Justus bagged three wickets.

Glens skipper Safyaan Sharif stated: “After picking up a few good victories, this display was a big disappointment.

“We made a few mistakes which had a big impact on the outcome.

“We paid the price, but I am confident we will learn from the experience and come back strongly.”