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First team
Next to bottom side, Middleham, entertained us on Saturday. They won the toss and decided to bat first. They made 112 all out in 27.4 overs. In the bowling Sam Arkwright took 4 for 23, Struan Mackenzie 2-24, Jack Kitching 1-13 and second teamer Caspar Bean 2-43. In our reply Mo Saghir finally got a few runs, 21 from 30 balls (3×4 1×6) whilst fellow opener Jack made 39 from 51 balls (6×4) Our number three, second teamer Gareth Wooler, made his usual slow start before hitting seven fours in his 38 not out. His partner, skipper Morgan Davies ended on 10 not out, as we secured the points in the 24th over. The 20 points gained, keeps us in third spot, now only six points behind North Stainley who lost away to Thornton-le-Moor. Hot on our heels though, just two points behind, are Ripley who won by 10 wickets away to Raskelf. Next Saturday leaders Walton Park entertain North Stainley whilst Ripley are at home to Thornton-le-Moor. Meanwhile we have a derby game against neighbours Bolton Abbey at Shires Lane. The game is sponsored by the Duke of Devonshire. The match starts at 1pm.
Second Team
We entertained Pannal Ash at Billy Bob’s Ice Cream Parlour sponsored Shires Lane. That the game actually started was down to some sterling work by groundsman Scott Robinson. The heavy overnight rain had left the square a little on the soft side. However, the wicket was just playable and off we went. We won the toss and asked them to go first. We got plenty of things to happen with wicket, however, we were unable to take any of the chances offered before they really got going. Finally, Alan Robinson hung on a catch with the score at 19. Mark Walters hung on to another chance with the score at 24. Unfortunately, more chances went down before at 51, Tom French took a good catch at long off. Their captain went at 55 caught by Chris Beck. In the 13th over the rain arrived and 13 balls later the players left the field with them on 70 for 4. Despite hanging around for a while, it was obvious that no further player would be possibly. We garnered 10 points which keeps us in third spot – 21 points behind second place Whixley and 18 points in front of Ben Rhydding. Leaders, Killinghall 2nds are promoted because with three games left, we cannot catch them. Our only hope of promotion is to chase down Whixley. This week we travel to Thirsk 3rds who play at South Kilvington. Again the game starts at 1pm.
Trevor Coe – Chairman
