PAARL, Jan 17 - The Northerns Titans eased their way into the semi-finals of the Standard Bank Cup, dishing out a first home-defeat in a year to Boland on Wednesday night. The Titans made light work of the defending champions, cruising home by six wickets with four overs and one ball to spare.

Boland's total of 185 for six from their 45 overs was never enough, especially with Martin van Jaarsveld in such fine form for the visitors. Van Jaarsveld was in commanding form, anchoring the Northerns' reply with an authoritative 76 off 89 balls, with six fours.

He was well supported by young Kruger van Wyk, the 20 year-old widely tipped for future success standing firm while the more experienced van Jaarsveld did the business. There were useful contributions from both Jacques Rudolph and captain Gerald Dros, but the man-of-the-match award deservedly went to van Jaarsveld for his all-round excellence.

He had already picked up a the wicket of Gerhard Strydom in the Boland innings, Strydom offering a chance back to bowler on 29. His innings was typical of the Boland batting effort, as several top-order batsmen made starts, but failed to capitalise. After winning the toss and deciding to bat, 185 always looked below par, even on Boland Park's notoriously slow and low wicket.

And so it proved. Boland now face the improbable challenge of winning their next two matches - against Western Province and Border - if they are to join the Titans in the semi-finals and continue the defence of their title.

© 2001 CricInfo Ltd