With half-time looming Armitage and Riki Flutey decided they had had enough of aimlessly putting boot to ball in their own half and they launched a superb counter-attack from deep which ended with Wilkinson levelling the scores with his second penalty.

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And the stage was set for a incredible finale when Jackson intercepted from deep but his attack fizzled out, leaving Bath breathing a sigh of relief.

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Younus and Yousuf continued to dominate a listless visiting attack to add 113 from only 99 balls, before left-arm spinner Ray Price had both caught in the deep off extravagant shots.

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