STANDINGTALL: Jamaica's Maverick Perry driving through the covers during his 73 yesterday.

by LOUIS HOLDER

DEFENDING CHAMPIONS GUYANA assumed control of their TCL Group West Indies Under-19 League Challenge cricket match against the Leeward Islands at Kensington Oval yesterday.

After gaining a slim first innings lead of six runs, the Guyana bowlers, led by fast bowler Leon Scott, struck some telling blows in the post-tea session to leave the Leeward Islands precariously placed at 116-6, a lead of just 110 runs.

Scott, operating from the northern end of the ground, bowled with sustained pace and hostility to grab three quick wickets, including the prized scalp of first innings century-maker Chesney Hughes, whom he had caught for 12.

Left-arm spinner Herman Latcha chipped in with two for nine, as the Leeward Islands batsmen struggled against the Guyanese attack.

Only Kejel Tyson, with a dogged knock of 42, including six fours, in 80 minutes, showed any real resistance.

Earlier, Guyana, resuming at their overnight score of 75-5, were made to fight extremely hard for their runs, as the Leeward Islands' bowlers kept a tight rein on proceedings.

Overnight batsmen Jeetendra Sookdeo (37) and wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble (nought), added a useful 39 runs for the sixth wicket, before Sookdeo was unfortunately run out for 53, made in 203 minutes, with four fours.

However, Bramble stuck to his task and played attractively for his 51, a knock that included four fours and one six, in 178 minutes of batting.

Left-arm spinner Turnell Turner, with three for 58, was the leading wicket-taker for the Leeward Islands. Fast bowler Adelbert Phillip claimed two for 27 and off-spinner Tevin Osbourne, two for 36.