Follies Farm too strong on a dry pitch

After winning the toss we decided to have a bowl first on a dry and hard looking pitch. Early pressure on the run rate from Vaughan Robertson and Richard Brooks during the first ten overs resulted in an early breakthrough. Follies Farm batsmen, Palmer and the 15-year- old Baker put together a strong partnership through the middle stages, despite a very close LBW appeal going against Michael Gane, proving costly. Gain and Vance Thompson both bowled a consistent length and were unlucky during their first spells.

After drinks we managed to slow the growing run rate with the introduction of the experienced Andrew Barkle and debutant, Gretchen McAleer. A crucial break through was the run out of Palmer (48), as a result of this tight bowling from both ends. Soon after, Brooks managed to dismiss Baker (77), with a loose delivery that was very well caught by Mark Bassett at square leg. With this partnership broken, we continued to apply pressure through tight bowling from Barkle, Brooks, Thompson and Gane, bringing regular wickets during the final 10 overs. Follies Farm were bowled out for 181 in the 40th over. A very good effort to turn the game around from what looked like 250+ score at one point. Bowling Figures:

• R. Brooks 3-17-8 overs
• V. Robertson 0-20-5 overs
• V. Thompson 1-27-8 overs
• M. Gane 2-33-6 overs
• A. Barkle 2-33-8 overs
• G. McAleer 0-36-5 overs

The batting innings started well with Bassett and Grayling both looking solid. Unfortunately, Bassett (6) had a nibble at one sliding across him and was caught behind, with Grayling (9) being bowled soon after. Vaughan Robertson came out with positive intentions, hitting the ball cleanly to all parts of the ground. When Robertson (24) was undone by a good delivery, we found ourselves under pressure at 3/43. T. Penman (5), A Barkle (19) and G McAleer (17) fought well and kept the scoreboard ticking over. However, once their wickets fell, Thompson and Brooks had about 90 runs to score in 12 overs, 8 wickets down. They managed to give the team a fighting chance of winning until Brooks (14) was caught in front – LBW. Gane joined Thompson (20) at the crease, still needing 60 odd runs for victory. Follies Farm took the final wicket of Thompson, leaving us on 128, 54 runs short of victory. A superb effort in the field was not backed up with bat on this occasion. Nonetheless, an excellent day of cricket in the sunshine at the tranquil Follies Farm venue. As always, the hospitality was fantastic, and the cold beers were flowing afterwards. Thanks to all who made the effort to play and organise this great fixture.