Having decided to play on the 2nd pitch, Spencer batted first. The conditions were very blustery and wet, with further heavy rain and wind forecast. Nick Hearle and Neil Griffin opened the bowling. Tight bowling from Neil G (5o 1m 10r 0w) and a wicket for Nick (6o 2m 11r 1w) kept Spencer's run rate down. Tom Meadowcroft kept wicket for the first time for senior side. Change of bowling to Joe Januszewski and Jason Hiscox and wickets for both, Joe (4o 0m 24r 3w), Jason (7o 1m 16r 2w).

Kevin Miller (3o 0m 6r 0w) and Mark Lander were the next bowlers, with Mark getting 3 wickets (5 0 11 3). Neil S (1o 0m 3r 1w) ended Spencer's innings at 92 all out. The Spencer skipper announced to Neil that this was their lowest score for about 6 years.

During the last 10 overs of the Spencer innings the heavens opened. Regardless of this, Woods were determined to continue in view of the way Spencer had made us field in appalling rain on their visit to us in 2001. The fans (George and Lesley) and scorer (Sandra) were soaked through and not very impressed with our decision. The tea was not much to write home about and during this break the heavens opened again, ruining any chances of resumption of play. Players were charged a £3 fee for the tea and then returned to Woodman.

Report 2:
Spencer 'B' XI vs. Woodmansterne Sun XI
Woods denied 1st win of season by downpour

Woodmansterne were looking forward to starting the new season in a similar manner to the successful 2001 season. However, in the end the weather was the winner, but not before some useful performances by the Woods players. 

Spencer won the toss and decided to bat in this 35 overs game, having finally found a wicket which was not completely waterlogged after the rain of the preceding days. With no adult wicket keepers available the gloves were passed to young Tom Meadowcroft, who performed admirably in trying conditions in his 1st
adult game behind the stumps. 

The opening bowling pair of Griffin and Hearle bowled steadily at a lively pace and kept the ball up to the bat, limiting the scoring opportunities. Hearle made the first breakthrough at 25 when he bowled the Spencer left-handed opener having just switched to around the wicket. 

It was the double introduction of Hiscox and Januszewski shortly thereafter which really saw the wickets start to tumble. Januszewski struck first, courtesy of a superb catch at short cover by Mark Lander - Hiscox followed in the next over by cllean bowling the #4 bat. Januszewski was then involved in a 'no ball' controversy when the left handed #5 (who'd looked in good form after a couple of fine drives) was caught off a waist high full toss and stood his ground before eventually being given out. Januszewski then yorked the next batsmen, whilst Hiscox finally removed the other opener within a couple of overs to have Spencer six down with barely fifty runs on the board. 

Januszewski was replaced by 'guitar god' Mark Lander, who settled down after an erratic first ball (nearer his foot than the batsman's!) to bowl a good line and length. The remaining Spencer batsmen were now determined to play out the remainder of the overs - however Hearle removed one batsman with a smart catch at mid-on off Lander, whilst another wicket was taken by Lander with a yorker from round the wicket. At the other end young Kevin Miller had taken over from Hiscox and was bowling an impeccable line and length. Neil Saunders finally brought himself on for Lander and mopped up the last wicket within 4 balls to leave Spencer all out for 92 with five overs remaining. 

Whilst tea was taken the conditions steadily deteriorated and the decision was finally made to abandon the game. This performance gives some encouragement for the 2002 season, with several colts performing well and the fielding of other players backing up some accurate bowling. 

JH

Not only did Neil excel at the batting but it was unanimously agreed that the tea he had prepared was pretty good as well. Neil put his success down to the bread which was "Kingsmill of course" !

The bowling was started by Nick Hearle (8o 2m 17r 0w) and Neil Saunders. Kings got off to a good start, with both openers looking reasonably comfortable until the No 2 (Perry 12) was run out by Trevor. This brought a succession of batsmen to the crease, but none were able to stay with the No 1. Neil S claimed 4 wickets (16o 3m 48r 4w) and then Mark Lander (6o 3m 9r 3w) helped to mop up the tail-end! Rob Hicks was rewarded with a wicket from his 6 overs, but Neil G was unsuccessful with his 3 maiden overs. Kings held out for a draw, aided by stalwart blocking by their No. 9 (Bygrave), who faced 25 balls for no score. Their final score was 98 for 9. Jerry was struck on his ankle but the pain was arguably far less than the trauma he was to experience to his nether regions in the followings days !

Kings stuck around in the bar and started their award ceremony. Prizes were awarded for 'worst-drop', 'woose-of-the-match' etc. Virtually all the players ended up with some award. The 'duck-cap' was impressive and far more prominent than the small yellow mark in the scorebook awarded by us. The game was very enjoyable and played in a great spirit that will hopefully continue into the season. As Ron was absent there was a surfeit of sandwiches which were gratefully devoured during the evening. Thanks were given to Chris Vagg who volunteered to man the bar and a quiet toast was offered by all who witnessed Jerry's 'spunky' and possible last performance !!!! 

The 'Champagne Moment' – newly initiated for the season, was awarded by Sandra to Neil Griffin for his batting and his spectacular tea. 

Steve Edwards and Neil Park opened the batting. Steve (2) was out after 3 balls to a full toss off his pads. Neil (2) didn't fare much better as he was caught off his foot. This left Rob Hicks and Chris Vagg in charge, and a good partnership of 53 ensued until Chris (25) was unexpectedly bowled. Neil Griffin was the next batsman to the crease and made 10 runs before also being bowled. Ryan Polley went in at No. 6 and added 20 runs with Robert before Robert (37) was bowled. Kevin Miller made his first appearance of the season, joining Ryan, who by now was in full swing. Ryan's fifty arrived in quick order and included 10 boundaries. His partnership with Kevin continued for 118 runs until he was caught for a splendid total of 83. Kevin was pleased as he had got into double-figures for the first time for the 'Senior Sunday' side. His final score of 44, before being caught, included 6 boundaries. Keith Roger (1 n.o.) and Mark Lander (5 n.o.) added a few more runs before the 40 overs were up. Woods Sun XI total was a respectable 231 for 7.

A lovely tea was provided by Lesley, and as usual appreciated by all.

Mark opened the bowling with Neil Saunders (8o 3m 20r 0w). The bowling was very economical and Mark was rewarded with 4 wickets (8o 2m 22r 4w). Paul Benson and Robert were the change bowlers, each bowling well. Robert took 3 wickets from his 5 overs (5o 1m 15r 3w). Paul conceded only 10 runs from his 5 overs. The final overs were from Neil P, Chris and Kevin – who claimed a single a wicket. C&L were all out for 111 runs having faced 33 overs. The majority of their runs came from their No 6 De Meutier (62) who also received solid support from No 4 Forbes and No 9 Cullery. The last wicket of De Meutier took 11 overs to get.

The "Champagne Moment" award was not awarded.

Heavy rain prior to match and then throughout pm 

Woodmansterne opened the batting with Steve Edwards and Robert Hicks. For the first 10 overs the run rate was an acceptable 4 per over. Robert (15) was bowled by Ash Patel which brought Nathan Mahesan in for his debut appearance for Woods. Nathan (5) batted determinedly for 4 or 5 overs before being bowled by Saints skipper Woods. Next in was Ryan Polley, who made fairly short order of the slow change bowler and began to amass runs at his (now!) customary speed. He launched a huge six down the ground and arrived at his half century in 43 minutes off 38 balls. Steve also reached his half century a little later (79 mins 57 balls). Ryan and Steve continued scoring heavily. Saints confessed they were a little light in the bowling department, and runs came fairly easily. Regrettably however, with only eleven runs to go before his century, Ryan fell to a catch. This was another splendid innings, with Ryan (89 runs 71 mins 58 balls), scoring impressively off 14 of his last 15 deliveries. By this time it was nearly 4.00 pm and the score was 201. Skipper Saunders decided to give Edwards a chance to score a century. Twenty minutes later with Steve on 95, Neil signalled the last over. Steve took desperate measure by trying to score off the first ball and was caught on the same score at long off from the bowling of skipper Woods and the innings ended at a score of 231 for 6 wickets. This was probably a little too much for Saints to chase in view of their admission of a weak side. Batting contributions were also made by Kevin Miller (10), and Ian Munday (4 n.o.) – however Joe Januszewski (Polish) returned with no score after 2 balls.

A lovely tea was prepared by Lesley, with additional sandwiches for Ron's return of course !

Saints opened the batting with keeper Morgan and York. Despite very tidy bowling from Ron Titchenor (8o 4m 10r 0w) who was extremely economical and Neil S (14o 1m 50r 0w) who threw the ball up very invitingly, both batsmen showed great restraint and were still there after 29 overs. With the score on 103, the first breakthrough came in the 30^th with Robert striking the stumps twice in the over. A few overs later Kevin took the wicket of skipper Woods and 2 overs later trapped C Patel LBW. Joe replaced Robert, and bowled the No 6 batsman A Patel. Saints then blocked out 4 more overs to finish on 123 for 5. The fielding from Woodmansterne was good, with only 2 SB's and one genuine dropped catch. Jerry Geldard was accused of dropping a catch which only hit his hand in self defence at silly mid off. NS was accused of dropping a debatable one in the slips.

Ron was welcomed back after 11 months away from the game, and newcomers Greg Crawley and Nathan Mahesan were welcomed to the Sunday XI side.

The "Champagne Moment" award was awarded by Sandra to Ryan for his huge 'six'. 

Steve Edwards and James Lander each dropped a catch. Neil Saunders had the sole SB. Luckily for them, none of these statistics were officially recorded.

Sandra provided a lovely tea which was appreciated by everyone (full 45 quid's worth). A few drinks were had later by both teams - many thanks to George Miller for opening the bar.
 

Joe Januszewski (5o 0m 26r 0w) and Robert Hicks also kept the runs down in their opening spells and after 20 overs had been bowled the home side were 58-1. However, despite this good start, things were about to change. Shiv (No 3) began to open out and started a series of partnerships that would return an average of 8 runs per over over the next 10 overs. In this time Searle (No 2, 22r) was bowled by Ron Titchenor (7o 0m 46r 1w), Light (No 4) was caught by Ian Miller off the bowling of brother Kevin (3o 0m 26r 1w), and Harrison (No 5) misjudged a run and was comprehensively run out by Neil G from a direct hit from long on. With the score on 141-4 from 31 overs, the run out brought Lawrence (No 6) to the crease. Rumours abounded that this was Roffey's West Indian overseas players and that his batting would be appropriately characteristic. There was soon to be no doubt, as he proceeded to score heavily off virtually every ball delivered. Rob Hicks (7o 0m 58r 0w) in his second spell was the first to fall victim, with two large sixes struck from his bowling. All of the bowlers, except Joe, were the subject of further ferocious hitting (and lost balls) before Lawrence skied a catch to Ian off Neil G's bowling. The power of Lawrence's  hitting was obvious to those present, but on analysis even more impressive considering 58 runs were scored in 30 mins from 30 balls (17 scoring deliveries - an average of 3.4 runs per shot) - a splendid innings to witness with more sixes (6) than fours (3) scored.

Shortly after Lawerence's departure, Shiv was stumped by Ryan Polley off Neil G's (9o 2m 32r 2w) bowling and must have been disappointed to depart after a fine innings of 110. Roffey ended their 40 overs on 227-7.

Woods XI response to this was not much to write home about - hence the short report! Despite the skipper's plea for a steady and careful reply  - which was evident for a short while (331 runs in 6 overs), at about the required rate of 6 an over. The overall shape of  the innings deteriorated to something resembling a pear. None of the expected big guns fired and Woods had to be satisfied with two things having ended all out for 108;  a highly creditable performance from Trevor (37runs, 39balls, 57min) and the chance to turn the tables on Roffey later in the season (August 11 Home).

Champagne moment - Not awarded to someone in our team, although Ian came close with his catch. 

Howard Clarke -newly arrived from the Emerald Isle on a 3 match tour, was brought  into the bowling attack in the 26th over and after a rusty start (No Ball and 2 fours) took a wicket in his 2nd (D. Toms - 30) and 4th (P. Toms) overs. However Neil - who began his spell in the 27th over, Howard, and all the fielders found it was difficult to keep Chris off the strike. Chris continued to score heavily with O'Sullivan as his partner and the fielders and bowlers were at a loss to contain him. Chris reached his half century in 66min from 53 balls, and the second 50, which contained 3 sixes, in 36mins from 40 balls - ending on 118 not out. Murrey ended their 40 overs with a respectable 188-8.

Teas were provided by Lesley, and were gratefully accepted. The trip to Roffey, the previous week, had obviously not been in vain as Lesley had come away with a delicious addition to her already stunning culinary repertoire - scones with jam and whipped cream with strawberries on top!

Steve Edwards and Trevor Meadowcroft got off to a slow but steady start from the bowling of P and D Toms. An average of around 4 runs per over were scored in the first 13 overs which was just a fraction under the required rate. Trevor was stumped by Chris Vagg who had taken on the role of keeper in order to free up a bowler, with the score on 57. Steve was dropped very early in the innings and several stumpings were missed against him and Meadowcroft during their partnership.

Ron was promoted at short notice to No. 3 to try and speed things up but was 'inadvertently' run out early in his innings having sky'd an easy catch to short mid wicket. However the fielder fumbled the catch, managed to collect it, and sent it back to the keeper a long time before Ron eventually scrambled back to his crease.

Woods went through a quiet period at this stage with only with only 10 runs added in overs 15-19, taking their score to 67-2. Robert Hicks was the next man in, and together with Steve picked up an average of 6 runs per over by picking holes and taking risks with the field. Robert took one too many risks and was stumped after charging and missing a looping leg spinner from Goodliffe -  a tactic which had previously worked and helped him reach 19 runs before his departure - and a partnership of 61.

Polley (12) added 34 runs with Steve to take the score to 161-5 from 35 overs but was unfortunate to play on from the bowling of O'Sullivan. Chris Vagg brought himself onto to bowl in the 34th over with the required run rate at 5 per over. This was a fairly tense time for Woods as Chris was known to be bowling well, and in particular for the new batsman Kevin Miller who had lent his bat to Edwards. However, Kevin soon showed that he was unintimidated by the bowling, and put Ryans bat to good use by hitting the best cover drive of the match off Chris' 2nd over. With 3 overs left and 9 runs to win, Steve decided that every ball needed to be scored from, and succumbed to a caught and bowled off the third ball of Chris' over on a score of 97.

Jerry Geldard had the unenviable task of joining Kevin with still 9 runs required from 15 balls. Jerry was soon back in the pavilion having been caught by Chris (bowled D Toms) and adding 1 run to the score. Ironically this created the opportunity for Howie to join Kevin - who had crossed during Jerry's dismissal, to attempt to win the match. Kevin blocked the next 2 balls from Toms and dispatched the last ball of the over for 4 runs.

Howard blocked the 1st ball of Chris' over, and then hit the next for a glorious cover drive but was restricted to a single. Kevin also hit the next ball for single to level the scores and put Howard on strike. With the next delivery, the crowd went wild, as they saw Howard cut the ball to backward point and take the run to win the match for Woods (189-6) with only 8 balls remaining. (Link to photos). Howard was later seen to make an unorthodox celebrationary lap of the field (Link to photo). 

Neil and Nick did not bat 

Champagne moment - Howie first ball ('four feet over the batsman') 

Robert, in comparison was quiet, defending most of his deliveries (18 dot balls at the beginning of the innings, 2 scoring shots then 13 dot balls). But on a positive note contributed to a partnership of 91 runs with Ryan before being bowled by 2nd change bowler Turner with the score on 100 off 20 overs. In the same over, Kevin Miller was Tuners next victim to a caught and bowled. Ron Titchenor at No 5, helped the score along with Ryan (partnership 27). However in Miller's 6th over, Ryan (91) tried to pull a delivery to square leg and was caught by Streeting a few yards from the ground maintenance boundary. James Lander (No 6, 9) stayed at the crease for 33 mins and assisted Ron (bowled Streeting, 18) and subsequently brother Mark push the score on before being bowled himself by Evans. Jerry Geldard was the next man in, and shortly became involved in a run-out, resulting in Mark's (11) return to the pavilion with the score still on 160.

Sam Beighton came in with 6 overs remaining, and 9 months without an innings, and played some lovely shots. Of particular note were, a cover drive, a drive to mid off and a cut for four - all of which helped the score along to 200 at the end of 40 overs and helped Sam to an individual total of 29 not out - having scored off 14 of the 21 balls he received. Steve Hicks (also playing his first game of the season) and Neil Saunders did not bat.

Ron (8o 2m 28r 1w) and Neil (8o 1m 21r 0w) opened the bowling against batsmen Barrat and Lovelock  and kept the tally to 45 runs after 14 overs. WP looked well behind the pace, but Barrat's confidence was growing. Lovelock had been replaced by Kingan in the 5th over - caught by Jerry at cover from Ron's bowling. Robert and Sam were the next bowlers. The run rate increased slightly as Barrat's imposed himself more in the game. Kingan (32) also scored the odd boundary, but with the score at 75 from 21 overs, he  dollied a catch up to Ron at cover and claimed Sam's (5o 0m 25r 1w) one and only wicket. Barrat (41) then became Rob's first victim, caught by Steve E at long-on attempting to drive the ball for six. 

A mix-up between Turner and Grant meant that Turner returned to the pavilion, courtesy of a run-out by Ron, shortly after coming to the crease. Rivenell and Grant then put on 30 valuable runs, and by the time Grant was sent back - bowled by Rob, WP had 129 for the loss of 5 wickets from 30 overs. Streeting only lasted 2 balls from Rob (8o 0m 42r 3w) - caught by Steve E to a simpler catch at long-on. Miller didn't fair much better, dismissed by a terrific catch from Neil S at mid wicket - Marks 1st wicket. 

Skipper Malcolm Evans and Rivenell kept the run rate near to the required, and with 7 overs remaining, 52 runs were needed with 4 wickets in hand. This looked a possibility from Woods' point of view, as Rivenell and Evans looked fairly comfortable scoring singles easily and getting the odd 2,3 or boundary. This created a certain amount of pressure for the bowlers - Mark and Kevin, but they kept their heeads and Mark was rewarded with his 2nd wicket - that of Rivenell (40) in the next over. This brought opening bowler Tiller to the crease with 31 runs required off 4 overs. Again Mark (7o 0m 48r 2w) and Kevin (4o 0m 22r 0w) kept their heads, Skipper Saunders arranged the field well and restricted the batsmen to below the required 7.5 per over and in a key moment, with only 2 overs remaining and with WP requiring 19 runs, Kevin bowled an extremely tight over from which only 3 runs were claimed. This left a fairly impossible target for WP to achieve (although with 2 balls of the match left, a win was still possible if 2 sixes had been hit) and they finished only 5 runs short of a tie. 

'Howie's Memorable Moments':
Dad's missed stumping to Rob.
Jerry's fruitless diving near the boundary.
Ryans sulk for not being asked to bowl
Robs sulk for not batting well.
No drops or SB's.

Champagne moment - Dad's rolling around saving byes. 

With a soggy pitch, opening fast bowler Kelsey, and seamer Slater restricted Steve Edwards and Trevor Meadowcroft. Trevor fell to Slater whilst attempting to heave a legside ball to the boundary, but misjudged and looped the ball to square leg. Arjun playing his first game for the Sunday XI, came in to face Kelsey and did a good job of leaving the fast balls, but failed to get his bat away in time on his final delivery and presented slips with a dolly catch. Jerry Geldard, who was not very well on the day, batting at No 4 faced the last 3 balls of Kelsey stint, and then went on to score  a valuable 11 runs before being caught by the keeper off Slater. Kevin Miller went in to bat at No 5 and was keen to make amends for the previous week's duck against Worcester Park. However he was to end up with the same score when he was run out from a shot by Steve to mid wicket and was caught quite short of the crease, having regrettably not expected the throw in and less so a direct hit. Jason came in next and saw Steve make a mess of a cut shot, and the ball make a mess of his stumps in change bowler Taylor's 2nd over. All this with the score at 45-5 from 20 overs !

Ron Titchenor at No. 7. and Jason helped steady things and contributed to a valuable partnership of 33 runs with Jason before running himself out (Ron- talk us through it!). Joe Januszeweski batting at 8 put on a few runs before being caught at mid on and then Sam Beighton came in and saw Jason bowled by skipper Jason Williams from the other end with the score on 84-8 after 33 overs. Sam (8*) then went on to form a valuable partnership with Mark Lander (25*) batting at No 10 - forty three runs were added to the score with no further loss of wicket to bowlers Williams and Taylor. James Lander DNB. 

Sam opened the bowling for us with James at the club house end. Sam bowled extremely well in his 6 over spell and was unfortunate to end up wicket-less. His stats of 6o 2m 7r 0w reflected this. James bowled his 8 overs straight through and also returned good figures of 8o 3m 26r 0w. Mark replaced Sam at the far end, and bowled off his short run up. A few shorter balls were dispatched to the 'shed' area and spoilt what was also a very good spell (7o 0m 32r 0w). Ron (8o 2m 33r 2w) who was bowling at the other end also had difficulty finding the right length (ask Ron the reason *). He was however, rewarded with the first wicket of the innings in approximately the 20th over (figures unavailable, Sandra doing teas !)- No 2 left-hander Downes caught to a terrific catch at head height by James at cover. He was followed home shortly after by opener Caruana - out LBW to Ron. However by the fall of the first wicket, Wibbandune had put on 66 runs in a little under 20 overs. Batsmen Barras, Banfield and Lewis then chipped in, but despite fine bowling by Kevin (5.3o 0m 16r 1w) - who came on in a pressure situation annd support from Joe (figures not available) Woods failed to stop Wibbandune reach their target.

In the field, Woods dropped 3 catches (Joe, Ron and James). The dropping of opener Caruana may have influenced the outcome, but the general lack of runs, 2 needless run-outs and the fact that the pitch dried out and made the bounce a little more predictable were better excuses. Slighty dodgier excuses might have been the excess imbibing at Howie's quiz on the previous Friday (Link to photo - taken later) and skipper Williams' assurance that he only had 3 bowlers when in fact all 5 bowled well. Jason was enticed to keep wicket, because Jerry felt unwell, and did an extremely good job once he had taken the shine off the gloves ! According to sources, no byes were let through (watchout DP !).

Wibbandune skipper Jason kindly bought us a jug each of lager and beer and discussed possible fixtures next year. A fixture card was left with Jason Hiscox. Thanks go to Jason for opening and running the bar for the evening and serving the jolly-juice that made everything better after a few doses. Thanks go to Joshua Meadowcroft for stepping in to do the scoring - and to operate the scoreboard all by hhimself. Thanks also to Sandra for her wonderful teas - a great effort considering  this was her first 'double' for a while. It could be a close run thing with Lesley for the 'Silver Scone' award at the end of the season !

Champagne moment - Not awarded. 
* - Spikes new and too long !!!

Steve Edwards and Trevor Meadowcroft opened the batting and put on 39 runs before Steve was caught to top edge from a full toss from bowler Saines. Neil Griffin, back from honeymoon and wielding a new bat, helped to keep things ticking along with Trevor, adding 34 runs to the total before Trevor was bowled by Saines with the score on 73. Tom Meadowcroft added 15 runs with Neil G before Neil was dispatched to a disputable catch at mid-off. At this stage things still looked fairly rosy for Woods with plenty of batting to come, but regrettably after the addition of 1 more run and with the score on 89 Tom Meadowcroft was bowled, Joe run-out without facing a ball (strolling home 'a la Kevin' - see later excuse*), Ron was bowled by Saines, Jerry Geldard departed hit wicket and Nick gave an easy catch to mid-off. Prior to Nick, Kevin had come in at No 8. and stayed around for a while, adding 3 runs from a glorious cover drive before his partner Mark was bowled by slow bowler White. Neil Saunders was the last man in with a monumental 44 runs required to win. Neil hit a couple of lovely 4's off White, but Saines proved too much of a temptation and enticed him into a drive which was caught by Searle A at deep mid on. Saines bowled all the way through (16o 1m 54r 4w) for Kenley and White (5o 0m 28r 4w) also put in a good performance.

The loss of 5 wickets for no score pretty much killed Woodmansterne's chances, and even though skipper Doug wasn't there, the 'Kenley Curse' continued to exert its effect on Woods for another year. A little bad feeling due to debates on the overs left in Woods innings meant not too many stayed for a drink, but Kenley were very a nice bunch in the bar. On a much more positive note, Tom Meadowcroft kept wicket very well (only 2 byes and 3 leg byes let through) and will hopefully continue to enjoy his times behind the stumps. I the field, catches by Woods from Mark (off Neil S) and Steve (off Joe), dropped catch by Steve off Neil S.

* Mistakenly ran to colts crease !!!

Steve Hicks kept wicket for only the 2nd time this season and did an excellent job keeping the extras down - however the same couldn't be said of the bowlers who conceded 17 in wides or no balls.

Drops and SB's - Neil G had a full house - conceding a drop and SB in the same ball and then catching Dawes. There were three other dropped catches - Neil S at slip, Steve H - wicket-keepeer, Joe J missed c&b. SB's also to Rob and Trevor. 

Steve Edwards and Trevor opened the batting. Steve edged the ball to the keeper off Sallis on his 4th ball to bag his first duck of the season and was replaced by Rob who didn't fare much better - succumbing on his 3 ball to a c&b by Blackwell J. Things didn't look so rosy for Woods with the score on 3-2 and Neil G was handed the task of helping to rebuild the innings with Trevor. A partnership of 54 ensued - to the relief of the spectators, however with the first change of bowling, Trevor (23) was caught to Lewington C. Kevin Miller was next to the crease and took a short time to get off the mark (18 dot balls). Neil found the middle of his new bat on several occasions and along with Kevin added 15 runs before being caught, and replaced by Mark. Kevin departed a few balls later, to a c&b by Lewington C.  Mark and Ron at No 7 then put on 33 for the next wicket - Mark falling to the first ball of change bowler Whelan. Ron and Joe put on 27 before Joe took a swipe at a full toss from Whelan and missed. Nick Hearle came to the crease and saw Ron (33) caught from Lewington and then Neil S dispatching the ball to the boundary for the winning runs from his first delivery. 

The toss was won by stand-in skipper Griffin and a 40 over match was agreed with Morden to bat first. The bar was open on arrival and it was quickly ascertained that Malik was on holiday. Consequently a few beers were taken in 'celebration' and to stem the thirst on what was to stay a baking hot day. Shearer and O'Connor opened for Morden and got off to a quick start, nicking the odd edge off James Lander (5o 1m 25r 1w) and Glen Thomson (4o 0m 13r 0w). Woods were 9 men at this stage as Ron had not yet arrived. Shearer scored the lions share of the runs and looked set to continue the fairly hefty run rate but was caught by Steve Edwards at mid-on from James with six or seven overs gone and the score on 39. The wicket of O'Connor then fell to 1st change bowler Kevin Miller (8o 2m 17r 1w) - a fine catch at gulley by Ron Titchenor (or, as was whispered around the field, "his hands slipped off his knees" at the right time !). Drinks were taken fairly soon after with 10 overs gone. Rob Hicks (8o 2m 15r 3w) was brought on to bowl, and between Kevin and Rob who each bowled their 8 overs through, the run rate dropped significantly. Rob took 2 consecutive c&b's and at the start of his next over was on his hat-trick. Keeper Dance was facing and nearly obliged by popping the ball up in Glen's direction for what looked like an easy catch but .......(see Glen for explanation).  Soon afterwards he was caught by Jerry to a similar dolly at midwicket, giving Rob his 3rd wicket for very few runs. Neil G (7.1o 2m 16r 3w) and Ron (7o 2m 16r 2w) then bowled out the remaining overs, with Neil taking 3 wickets -  including a fine catch by Rob at square and Ron dispatching 2 batsmen to the pavilion bowled. One or two batsmen looked like they would take off, but Morden finished in the 40th over all-out for 114. Jason Hiscox again kept wicket very well in the heat, allowing only 6 byes through - half of which were unequivocally 'uncalled wides' !

A lovely tea was presented, which included scones and clotted cream, although a lot of players were too hot to really appreciate it.

Edwards and Hicks opened for Woods, and found out very quickly how tricky the track was and the reason why the Morden players subsequently revealed a desire to try our pitch next year ! Goss and Egan were very accurate and kept the runs down. Edwards (16) took a lot of risks and was dropped once and narrowly missed twice but succumbed eventually to a ball that kept low from 2nd change bowler Newton. Neil G (1) in at No. 3 also fell to Newton, but this time to a ball that reared up off a length, hitting him on the gloves before nestling in keeper Dance's gloves. Glen (11), elevated to No. 4 stuck around for a while and played some nice strokes which included two boundaries before also being c&b by Newton. However Newton didn't have it all his own way - in an uncharacteristic moment, Rob charged down the wicket and launched a high straight six back over his head. Mark Lander came in at No 5, and was soon rewarded with a TFC - ball just clipped the off stump from 33rd change bowler Waqar. Jerry Geldard (2) scored a couple of runs before glancing a wide ball (which would have been called such !) down leg side to keeper Dance. Things looked fairly ominous for Woods with wickets falling and Morden's confidence rising. Rob was the only one who looked fairly comfortable. Jason Hiscox joined him with the score on about 75 and the partnership began to look for, and take, quick singles - which understandably upset the opposition. Numerous appeals for LBW were refused and a some acrimony over decisions ensued between umpires Edwards/Griffin and keeper Dance and fielder Wilkins (shades of last year !). Fortunately the home skipper smoothed things out and things got back to relative normality albeit a lot quieter as Hiscox (26*) and Hicks (46*) slowly clocked up the runs. Egan was brought back into the attack, but failed to make any inroads and with 32 overs gone Jason scored the winning runs - but not before bowler Egan displayed some annoyance with Neil G for calling a wide down leg side.

Immediately at close of play, Morden skipper announced that he wanted all the players in the changing room. This they did and emerged some 20 minutes later. Woods stayed for a while and the atmosphere seemed OK but not totally comfortable. A jug of beer was bought and presented in the customary spirit of friendliness and Woods then said their goodbyes in order to return to celebrate Dad's birthday - leaving Ron to debate the proceedings of the day with the opposition. 

Catches from Steve, Ron, Jerry x 2 plus sound effects when batsman Egan was caught off Neil G, Rob x 3. Dropped catches - Jason x 2, Mark, Neil G, Ron, Glen !!!. SB's Kevin x 2, Rob. Pitch - in general very slow and bounce kept low, but one or two bounced up.

Champagne moment - awarded in absentia - Rob Hicks' catch at square leg to dispatch Falconer from Neil G.

Heavy rain 2 hours prior to match and then just before 1st ball of match. Rain throughout pm.
Retired to bar for drinks, sandwiches and cakes.
Thanks to Sandra for teas, and Jason for manning the bar.
Link to photos (x3)

Steve Edwards and Delroy Gordon opened the innings for Woods. Edwards was caught at mid off  to a ball that reared up and caught him by surprise. Polley, at No. 3, was soon into his stride, knocking a six in his opening salvo, but later took Little for granted and lost his off stump on 24 runs. Delroy needed a runner and Steve obliged for an hour or so, during which time Delroy notched up a valuable 40 runs for himself before being bowled by Plaister A with the score on 112-5 from 28 overs. 

Roffey (link to photo) said at the beginning of the match that they only had 2 recognised bowlers but all 8 of the nine players that bowled seemed pretty reasonable. This was the main reason that Woods were never really up on the run rate of 5.5 runs per over. Mark Lander made 8 before being bowled by Neins, Neil G made 4 before being given LBW (Flyn) to Plaister C, James Lander batted for a quite a while and made 14 before being caught to Speelman. Kevin Miller also played a good innings and was unlucky to be stumped when his captain and team mates began to urge him to push the score along.

Woods were doomed with about 10 overs to go and approx. 118 on the board. Batsmen Saunders (13), Flyn (2), Hearle (2*) and Jhavar (6) were also unable to help reach the required total. Lawrence was also in the thick of the wickets, claiming the wickets of Saunders and Flyn in in a single over. Woods were all out for 160 (30 of which were extras).

Lovely teas were again provided by Sandra. 
Woods had to provide the ball !

Dropped catches by Nick, Neil (and sore nose). Team decision to give Ryan a genuine DC and one for not getting his hand to the ball quick enough. There was a case for giving Mark and Neil G a DC each, but the players decided to award them a SB for an easy catch that one of them should have taken and in the process allowing a  run to be scored. Additional SB to Neil S.

Wimbledon Park were found (thanks to Jason Hiscox) through the CCC as replacements for Woodmansterne Colts.

Skipper Neil Saunders won the toss and put the opposition to bat.  The opening pair of Wimbledon Park looked comfortable until Tauseef was run (Ryan Polley) out with their scoreboard at forty. The Woods boys cracked in soon for the second (caught Joe Janus, bowled Mark Lander - 8o 3m 24r 2w) and third wickets (run out Kevin Miller).  Then came the  brilliant innings from batsman Zameer who made 66 runs when he was impeccably stumped by Polley on the intelligent bowling of Neil Saunders (5o 0m 20r 3w). The remaining 4 batsmen failed to make the score board look more impressive with their total contribution of only 20 runs. WP were all out for 171. The hallmark of fielding being 5 run-outs (Ryan x 2, Kevin and Sameer Jhavar x 2) and 2 stumpings from Ryan.

Steve Edwards and Trevor Meadowcroft opened for the Woods but  soon succumbed to the pace of the WP bowlers. With the scoreboard on 17 for 2, batsmen Ryan and Kevin had a lot to do on the field. Kevin did not look comfortable and was bowled out soon without scoring. Ryan looked very comfortable when he banged the paceman for an excellent boundary on his second ball. He went on to play a good innings for his individual score of 33, but missed a straight ball which he tried to pull away.  The Woods boys were now chewing their nails at 56 for 4 jumped back into the game with the scintillating partnership from Neil S and Jerry Geldard. The hall mark of the day being the awesome knock of 85 not out with 11 boundaries and 3 sixes by Neil with his half century coming of just 26 balls.

Woods were helped to the win also by responsible batting from Jerry (20) and Sameer (8 not out). As well as Neil's splendid innings, the win against the odds was also helped by Jerry's determined running between the wicket, and his by now, characteristic cry of  "don't worry I'll make it". 
SJ

Champagne moment - Neil's big six into the tennis courts. 

The Lander bros. opened the bowling against Duff (wkp) and Hannith. Both bowled their 7 overs very tidily with Mark (7o 1m 27r 0m) being unlucky to pick up a wicket and James (7o 4m 10r 2w) picking up two ( Hannith - bowled, Tindall ct. Neil Griffin at mid off)). Ryan Polley and Robert Hicks were up next, and again kept the run rate down. Ryan (4o 1m 15r 0w) bowling four overs and Robert (8o 3m 17r 1w) his full eight over stint, and providing us with the rare Hicks double-act of bowled - son, stumped - 'Dad'. At the end of 23 overs Aquila had 70 on the board for the loss of 3. The fourth wicket was claimed by Kevin Miller with no change in the score (Taylor ct Jerry Geldard at point). Four overs later with the score on 82, Kevin (4o 1m 8r 2w) claimed his second victim (Wright ct. Edwards deep mid on). Neil Griffin and Joe Janus bowled out the final 10 overs, each claiming a wicket each. At the end of 40 overs Aquila had reached 123 for 7. The opposition seemed a bit dismayed with the time it took Woods to bowl their overs - this was not a tactic deliberately employed to psyche them out - it appeared as if Woods were simply haaving fun on a glorious day, and took a bit longer than usual in the field ! 

Teas by Lesley were again superb, this time inclusion of pasties.

Woods batting was opened by Trevor Meadowcroft and Steve Edwards, facing Taylor and Midson. It was Trevor's turn to take the first ball and so began what was to be the largest first wicket stand of the season from this regular opening pair. The bowling was fairly tight, but there was the odd bad ball delivered which enabled the score to push on to 74 after 13 overs. Hopes of reaching the target for no loss were however dashed, when Trevor top-edged the ball to mid on and departed with 35 runs to his name. Ryan was next in , and with in no time had hit his first six to the square leg boundary - another followed there shortly afterwaards. His undoing came when he tried to pull leg spinner Dobson and was cleaned bowled. Kevin Miller at No. 4 helped to finish off the innings with Edwards, not before unselfishly almost sacrificing his wicket whilst running a kamikaze second to help Edwards to his half century. Kevin got off the mark soon afterwards with a square leg six off Dobson and the winning run was scored a short while later. DNBs for Neil G, Jerry, Robert, Dad, Joe, James and Mark

In the field there was just the one dropped catch Joe Janus. SBs to Kevin, Jerry and Steve Hicks, 2 to Ryan. The players disputed some of the awards, but could surely not argue with Skippers Griffins words - 'You know the system...... any flesh on the ball ...!!' 

Huss 0 ct Vagg (wkp) bowled James Lander                       James Lander 5o 1m 21r 1w
Victa 0 ct Vagg (wkp) bowled Neil Griffin                           Neil Griffin      8o 1m 58r 1w
Yerbs 132 bowled Nick Hearle                                           Neil Saunders 6o 0m 43r 1w
Drew 129 St Vagg bowled Neil Saunders                            Rob Hicks      7o 1m 37r 0w
Boog 5*                                                                              Mark Lander  6o 0m 53r 0w
Ben 1 run out Kevin Miller                                                   Kevin Miller   4o 0m 23r 0w 
Fallon 0*                                                                             Nick Hearle   4o 0m 36r 1w
DNB Zippy, Ross, Simon, Bacon
Extras 6

** 2 catches and a stumping for keeper Vagg **

D Gordon 75 ct                                                                   Falcon 8 1 28 2
R Hicks 1 bowled                                                                Bacon 4 0 25 0
N Griffin 39 ct                                                                     Ben     5 0 34 0 
R Polley 38 ct                                                                      Simon 4 0 32 0
C Vagg 28 ct                                                                       Huss   8 0 47 1 
N Saunders 23 run out                                                         Ross   3 0 28 1
J Geldard 7 ct                                                                      Drew  8 0 69 3
M Lander 19*
K Miller 5 bowled
DNB N Hearle, J Lander
Extras 37
 

James Lander was skipper for the day in the absence of Neil Saunders and Neil Griffin. His debut did not elicit any favours from the toss and Woods were put into bat. Delroy Gordon and Steve Edwards were asked to open the innings. Edwards soon departed having (disputedely) snicked the ball to the keeper. Batsmen 3, 4 and 5 (Ross Jacobs, Ryan Polley and Kevin Miller) were all out for ducks. Jerry Geldard (5) helped the score along before being bowled. Nick Hearle and Delroy managed to dig in and put on a partnership of 49 runs before Del (49) was caught at deep backward square with the score on 86 for 6 from 26 overs. Joe Janus was next in, adding 10 runs with Nick, before being followed by Ron Titchenor who added 31 with Nick before Nick (43) was bowled by Wardle. Young Tom Meadowcroft was the unfortunate victim of inexperience - stumped on his first ball. Skipper Lander came in and helped put on 26 in the last wicket stand. Both Ron and James ending not out on 23 and 12 respectively to bring the score to 163 for 9 from the 40 overs.

James and Nick opened the bowling and after 10 overs had only conceded 20 runs. James had a break after 5 and Nick after 6 overs - each having bowled one of the openers. Ross Jacobs (6o 0m 34r 0w) and Ron were next change bowlers and guarded the runs very well - Ron (8o 0m 25r 1w) picking up the wicket of No 3 White.

Next up were Kevin Miller and Joe Janus. In Kevin's 2nd over No. 5 Newport, was run out by a throw from Kevin to keeper Meadowcroft. Joe took 3 wickets in his 5 over stint (5o 0m 27r 3w) and would have produced even better figures had it not been for the 7 extras he bowled. By the end of the 40 overs which included a single over from Ryan, Bec Old Boys were 29 runs short of the Woods total.  James and Nick returned to complete their spells, Nick ended his 8 over spell with 3 maidens, 14 runs and a single wicket, James on the other hand claimed another 2 wickets to finish on a season's best of 8o 4m 8r 3w.

Catches were taken by James, Tom (as wicketkeeper - spectacular diving, right, one-handed catch) and Kevin. Dropped catches from Ross, Tom and Del. SB's two to skipper Lander.

The match was played in a very friendly spirit and we would hope to invite Bec Old Boys back for a return match next season. 

With the toss lost by Skipper Griffin, Spencer elected to bat on a fairly fresh and cloudy September day. Nick Hearle and Mark Lander opened the bowling and after a shaky start steadied the run rate down. After 10 overs Spencer were 30 for the loss 2 wickets, with Nick and Mark each notching up the wicket of one of the openers. Nick then went on to claim another 2 wickets in his remaining 5 overs and ended on 8o 2m 25r 3w. Mark also turned in a fine performance, which was only marred slightly by an errant last over !

Ron Titchenor and Rob Hicks were 1st and 2nd change bowlers - brought on with the score on 69 for 4 from 15 overs. Both kept the run rate down well at the beginning - with only 2 runs scored from their combined first 6 overs - two runs from Ron and 3 maidens from Rob, one of which was a wicket maiden. At the end of their stints Rob had added another 2 wickets to his haul (8o 4m 12r 3w) and Ron also ended economically (8o 2m 18r 1w). Paul Benson and Neil G finished off the bowling. Neil claimed the wicket of No 10 Rana (31), who stuck around for a frustrating amount of time - with a 9th wicket stand of 36 and a last wicket stand of 12; he also delivered the ball that allowed Jerry Geldard to run out No 9. Khokhar. 

The highest contributor to the Spencer innings Jafri No.4 (39) was caught by Trevor at deep mid wicket Catches also by Steve Hicks as wicket keeper in only his 4th game of the season, Paul Benson, Neil G, Delroy Gordon, Jerry and Ron. Dropped catches - Mark, Paul and Rob. SB's Paul. In another amazing turn of events, no byes or leg byes went past keeper Hicks, which was in sharp contrast to the 11 'No Balls' and 15 wides which were bowled in the innings ! 

Teas were again generously provided by Lesley, but full enjoyment was slightly marred (Ron excluded !) due foreshortening of the tea break because of light worries.

Steve Edwards and Trevor Meadowcroft opened the batting. Edwards got his first, first-baller of the season and snuck off to sulk with no hope of any dispute about his edge to the keeper. When he came back, some 16 overs later, he noted (with no satisfaction of course !) that he was not the only one to depart in this fashion. Rob Hicks and Nick Hearle had suffered a similar fate (strange when only two other goldens had been seen in the previous 15 matches !). Only Delroy Gordon had contributed significantly to the score with 30 runs - Trevor having departed with 6. Mark Lander was a little more fortunate and lasted 4 balls for his duck. So when Edwards returned, Woods were a pitiful 52 for the loss of 7 wickets. Bowler Rana had been on two hat tricks and ended his spell - 8o 4m 15r 4w. Ron went into bat with a tall order of 93 runs still required but departed a few overs later. Steve Hicks was next in but came unstuck when he charged Khan and received an unsympathethic/indignant stumping finger from son Rob. The last man in Paul Benson (7*) stayed around to watch Jerry elegantly dispatching the ball (on the off side !) for boundaries. The Woods team even got quite exited whilst watching the 'runs required' diminish - until Jerry, having scored 2 consecutive 4's on the off, tried to pull a straight one and was caught at short square leg. Woods ended 104 all out - 41 runs short of the required total. Jerry made 39 runs and had partnerships with: Del 20; Mark 1; Nick 0; Ron 4; Steve H 10; Paul 38. 

Olinda Vandals got off to a flying start. No. 1 Forman (last seen in the cup match earlier in the season) took a fancy to the opening bowlers - Nick Hearle and Neil Griffin. There waas a little niggle between Skipper Griffin and Forman (subsequently smoothed out), but meant that Neil had to suffer 10 from his 2nd over. After 5 overs the score was 28, Neil took a break and brought on Kevin Miller. Nick was also rested shortly after and Rob Hicks came on from the far end. By this time Forman was in full swing and both bowlers were again changed after 2 overs each. Del Gordon and Ross Jacobs were next up. Del was rewarded in his second over with the wicket of Forman - much to the delight of the Woods boys. He had scored his 65 runs extremely quickly (49 balls, 44 mins, 12 fours, 1 six) and had penalised the fielding side for the dropped catch by Ross fairly early on his innings. With the fall of this wicket in the 12th over, Woods hoped the run rate would slow a bit from the 7 per over. No 2 Hall and the other OV batsmen were not as explosive and the rate was eventually brought down to the more manageable 5.5 that was set.

Mark Lander was behind the stumps for the first time and took 2 very sharp stumpings from the bowling of Rob Hicks, and allowed only 2 byes through. There were catches for Kevin, Nick (c&b), and Del. Dropped catches Ross, Rob and Neil. SB's Steve Edwards, Del, George Miller.

Much to the delight of the players, there was sausage and mash (S&M) and onion gravy  for tea - gratefully received and kindly prepared by the Butler Family - believed to be only the second time that a hot tea has been served at the club (answers on a postcard please for the 1st !)

Trevor Meadowcroft and Steve Edwards opened the batting for Woods. Trevor got off like a rocket punishing the leg side bowling.  His innings of 45, which included 7 fours, unfortunately came to an end when he skied an offside ball that would probably have been a wide. Del Gordon went in at No. 3 and put on 39 for the 2nd wicket - Edwards caught at fly slip on 48. At 20 overs Woods were up on the rate (120) essentially due to Trevors quick scoring (42 balls, 39 mins). The score was then pushed on nicely by George Miller, in his 1st game of the season, and Del (52 partnership) to 172, when George nicked one through to the keeper on 30. A succession of wickets then fell, and what looked like an easy victory turned into a nail biter.

Neil G at No 5 lasted a short while (9), Ross was unfortunately run out having driven the ball ferociously at bowler Foreman's foot. It popped up neatly into his hand giving him the chance to throw down the stumps as Ross had quickly taken off in anticipation of the run. Unfortunately he found himself very short of his ground and had to watch the stumps thrown down. Mark Lander was caught for 6 in the same over. Which left Jerry Geldard at the crease with Rob Hicks - Kevin and Nick the last 2 padded up and 22 runs needed off 5 overs. 

Rob and Jerry looked like they would see it out comfortably, but Jerry (4) was caught much to the crowds disappointment. Rob (17) was joined by Kevin but soon afterwards lifted an easy catch to mid wicket with no addition to the score. Last man Nick, went in with 3 runs required from the last 2 overs. Showing little sign of nerves he blocked the first 2 balls and hit 2 off the next and then a single to finish to rapturous applause.

S&M moment: George's creating an opposition dropped catch with three fielders going for the ball, regretably ending up with the bowler Lord having to leave the pitch with a knee injury.

Bowling Summary
Nick Hearle 8o 2m 30r 1w
Neil Griffin 6o 0m 33r 1w
Kevin Miller 6o 0m 38r 0w
Rob Hicks 8o 0m 49r 3w
Del Gordon 6o 0m 29r 1w
Ross Jacobs 6o 0m 34r 1w