ST ELIZABETH Technical (STETHS) needed just first-innings honours over first-time finalists Manchester High at Alpart to notch their 21st hold on the rural Headley Cup cricket title, sponsored by Grace, on Wednesday.

STETHS, the defending champions who fell at the quarter-final stage of the inaugural knock-out competition earlier in the season, showed their superiority by batting for most of the time available on the final day, making Manchester's second innings a futile exercise.

STETHS, having earned a 20-run first innings lead after posting just 126 in 54.5 overs on the second day, scored 249 for three declared after starting the final day comfortably placed at 72 for one.

On the strength of Derval Green's 91 and 75 not out from Maverick Perry, they then closed their innings just minutes before the scheduled tea interval with looming clouds showing the distinct possibility of imminent showers.

Green and Perry shared a 135-run third-wicket stand, blocking any thoughts Manchester High had of a change of fortunes.

Manchester High faced just one over in which they lost Allen Powell for duck off the bowling of Shawn Leslie and were at 3-1 when the game was called off.