A “magnificent” team performance has sent Shrewsbury Cricket Club through to the semi-finals of the illustrious Cockspur Cup.

The London Road men were dominant at York yesterday, winning by eight wickets to progress to the last four of the national knockout competition that they famously won back in 1983.

York were restricted to 205-7 from their 45 overs, and skipper Ed Foster then led the charge as Shrewsbury cruised to victory.

The opener was unbeaten on 104 at the end, batting in tandem with his brother Rob (21 not out) to set up a semi against Chester-le-Street at London Road on August 23.

Delighted team manager Trevor Sheperd said: “We’re told Chester-le-Street are the best amateur club in the country so we’re hoping a massive crowd will come out to support us.

“The team effort yesterday was absolutely magnificent. It was a fantastic day and the journey back was long but very happy.

“On behalf of myself and the team, I would like to thank everyone who made the journey to support us.”

The following at York was swelled by the presence of former Shrewsbury Town goalkeeper Joe Hart – who used to play cricket as well for his hometown club.

He saw Shrewsbury produce a solid performance from start to finish, with Sheperd adding: “York have won the Yorkshire Premier League championship two years running so it was a great win for us.”

• For the full report see tomorrow’s StarSport

By CHRIS HUDSON