They followed up wins over Guildford and East Molesey with an 18-run success and have opened up a 16-point advantage as they seek their first league title for a decade.

Skipper Richie Oliver (92) and James Crosthwaite (88) overcame the early loss of Ollie Sykes (10), adding 176 for the second wicket to put the hosts firmly in control. Esher’s bowlers limited the damage by conceding 56 runs from the final 10 overs to prevent the situation getting totally out of control, Joe Lavender and Nicholas Smit claiming two wickets each in a final total of 251-6 from 50 overs.

Missing Justin Broad at the top of their order, Esher were given hope by Australian Teague Wylie’s belligerent 78 from 63 balls. Priory’s spin-heavy attack proved too tight for the rest to make sufficient progress, Surrey’s Tommy Ealham and Angus Dahl both collecting three victims as the visitors were bowled out for 233 in the final over.

Source: Full week 3 review here