The win preserved the Eagles' unbeaten record and lifted them eight points clear of Crusaders at the top of the table, still with a couple of games in hand.

Essex were indebted to a determined knock by skipper Ronnie Irani. Opening the innings, he grafted away while making 61.

200 looked a difficult score to atttain but was ten Doeschate ( again) and James Foster who produced the most fluent batting of the day to carry Essex beyond 200. Crucially 25 were struck off last 2 overs. 202 on a slow, difficult pitch with long boundaries looked a more than modest target.

Middlesex were off blocks quickly but were losing wickets. At 63-4 after 10 overs some consildation required.  This challenge was led by Paul Weekes who received fine support from Ben Scott after the pair had come together with the total on 102 for six.

They shared in a stand of 72 in 19 overs before Pakistani leg spinner Danish Kaneria turned the game back into the home side's favour by claiming two wickets in the 42nd over. First Weekes, having made 82, was removed lbw without offering a stroke and from the next delivery Chris Peploe put up a simple catch to ten Doeschate.

That left Middlesex's hopes resting with Scott, but in the end he found the task just too much for him. The the last over arrived with 13 required. 2 dot balls followed by two singles didn't help. Then a four from Scott made us realise a 6 ( which hadn't been hit all day) required for draw.  Some time wasting failed to get Essex 6 runs penalty and a perfect inswinging yorker could only go for 2 runs giving Scott unbeaten with 50.  

This result almost certainly gives Essex the championship as the tannoid blared out in anticipation Queen " We are chapions". Middlesex are still well placed for a creditable runners up spot.

Please click here for the scorecard for this match

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