Andy McKay took four wickets and was backed up by Auckland Aces’ top order as the State Shield leaders defeated Wellington Firebirds to extend their advantage at the top of the table.
Stephen Fleming made 87, in stands of 71 with Matthew Bell (29) and 62 with Graham Napier (42) in Wellington’s 247 for eight.
McKay accounted for Fleming and Napier as he returned four for 41 from his 10 overs.
The Aces’ top line then prospered at the Basin Reserve, putting on 175 for first three wickets, courtesy of a century opening stand of 100 between Martin Guptill (33) and Lou Vincent (72), form continued by Richard Jones (37) and Rob Nicol (52).
Napier scored a double in defeat, also taking four wickets, but Auckland completed victory with just nine balls to spare.
