Western Premier leaders Prestwick remain on course for the title after a century from Sachin Chaudhary helped them to a precious derby win over Ayr at Cambusdoon.

The Indian star watched as Prestwick made the worst possible start, losing both openers with just three runs on the board.

However, Chaudhary refused to panic and his superb 108 allowed the visitors to reach an improbable 227 after Scott McElnea’s four-wicket haul had put Ayr on top.

Despite losing the free-scoring Neil Smith and Michael Papps early, Ayr were still in contention when skipper Andi McElnea compiled a fine 69.

But when he was run out, the home side slumped to 184 all out, Willie Rowan’s 3-30 including the big scalp of Papps.

Ferguslie claimed the Paisley bragging honours to stay in touch with the leaders and push neighbours Kelburne closer to relegation with a 35-run win at Meikleriggs.

Michael English and Dave Stafford scored half-centuries in a total of 188 before Greg Cameron claimed three crucial wickets to send the visitors on their way to defeat.

Uddingston are also still in with a chance after a tense one-wicket win over East Kilbride at Bothwell Castle where Ross Lyons claimed four wickets to restrict the visitors to 142.

Amir Gul top-scored with 32 during a fraught run-chase but Gavin Main’s 17no proved just as important as Uddy edged home.

Elsewhere, Dumfries recorded a six-wicket win at Greenock to ease their relegation fears and leave the hosts facing an anxious last three weeks to the campaign.

Clydesdale brushed aside a shaky start at Poloc to post an impressive 256-8 Basit Ali’s brilliant 103no seeing them recover from 119-7.

Mo Awais then claimed five wickets as the outgoing champions prevailed by 103 runs despite a defiant 60 from Asad Izaz.