Ed Foster batting for Shrewsbury. Picture: Peter Shah

Cockspur Cup glory is within touching distance for Shrewsbury after a sensational victory over York in the last eight of the national knockout competition.

The London Road club lifted the cup at Lord’s back in 1983 but had not got close to repeating that feat again until now.

They will now host crack amateur outfit Chester-le-Street in the semi-finals on Sunday, August 23 as they bid to secure a place in the final – which this year will be played at Derbyshire.

They put on a storming performance in York, dominating with bat and ball to win by eight wickets and with six overs to spare.

On a flat track that favoured batting, the hosts were restricted to 205-7 from their 45 overs.

Michael Barnard bowled superbly, his figures of 2-38 not a full reflection of his quality, while Matt McKeever weighed in with the same tally.

Spin twins Elliott Green (3-38) and Alex Blofield (0-30) also did a great job in frustrating the York batsmen as they tried to increase the scoring rate.

Shrewsbury’s reply was anchored by magnificent skipper Ed Foster, who went on to record a sensational unbroken century.

He put on 50 or the first wicket with Ryan Bishop, who was eventually out for 21 when following a wide one.

Will Parton came in at No 3 and batted brilliantly for his 47, and it was then down to Rob Foster to support his brother as Shrewsbury cruised to victory.

Rob (21 not out) was in fluent form with a series of dashing boundaries, but appeared to spurn the chance to hit the winning runs – gifting that honour to his brother, who was  able to reach his century as well – closing on 104.

“It was an absolutely fantastic game and the team effort was brilliant,” said manager Trevor Sheperd.

“The track was an absolute road and we thought it was a really good effort to hold them to 205 because we expected to be chasing 250-270.

“They have won the Yorkshire Premier League for the last two years so it was a good performance to beat them so well.”

Shrewsbury are delighted to have been drawn at home to Chester-le-Street in the semi-finals, after four away ties to get this far.

“It’s a big game for us and we’re hoping a massive crowd come out to support us,” added Sheperd.