A Max Capaldi-inspired St Albans secured their second consecutive victory in thrilling fashion, edging out visitors Abbots Langley by just two runs.

The Saints captain won the toss and backed up a fine match-winning ton last time out with a blistering 64-ball 69, as he and fellow opener Adam Hounslow (41) were quick to take advantage of a good batting track.

Indeed, the 50 partnership arrived in just the eighth over as the opening pair showed their ruthless streak to capitalise on any width afforded by the Abbots bowling attack.

Capaldi though, required a couple of good bits of fortune. With the visitors toiling in the field, they did themselves no favours in squandering two catching opportunities as the opener survived to bring up his half-century.

He fell soon after, however, as Abbots put the brakes on St Albans’ charge after an excellent opening stand of 124.

In what is quickly becoming something of a repetitive theme for the Saints, another middle order collapse stunted what had looked likely to be the makings of a big total.

Barry Warner’s 3-23 led the fightback as Abbots took all 10 wickets for just 91 runs to leave St Albans with a disappointing 215 on the board. Only Jonny Armitage’s rapid 36 offered anything in the way of resistance.

With the game firmly in the balance, tight economical bowling in reply from Jacob Winfield (1-24) and Mark Telkman kept Abbots in check, but not before an unbeaten stand of 50.

Spin proved key as Tom O’Toole (2-49) and star man Capaldi (2-45) turned provider with the ball to reduce them to 77-3.

The visitors continued to tick over and, at 158-5 with 16 overs remaining, the game remained delicately poised.

Daniel Rosson (3-28) proved to be the hero though. With just three runs to play with, he held his nerve taking the last wicket off the final ball to secure Saints a dramatic victory.