Stringer's best sobered by defeat

Lightcliffe 3rd XI 189-9 lost to Almondbury Wesleyans 190-6 by 4 wickets Halifax Sunday League Division One - Sunday 12th August 2018

Lightcliffe again gave a good account of themselves against Almondbury Wesleyans but as in the reverse fixture in June again found their opponents too strong in the batting department.

Marcus Kelly was again given to opportunity to Captain and his decision to opt to bat first could have been questioned as the side again slumped to 17-4.

The innings was rescued by two strong middle order stands. Josh Stringer pumped up on the vapours of his brother’s 18th the previous night, played his most composed and mature innings to date.

His concentration and shot selection especially against the slow bowling was excellent and with Bradley Atkinson (who took time to dig in and produce 24 runs) rebuilt with a 70 partnership.

When Lightcliffe debutant Neil Harvey arrived, Stringer – in the 40’s but with signs of last night taking its toll, was thankful for his partner’s powerful impact, as the ball was despatched stylishly to various corners (and which had the 2ndXI captain researching League registration rules).

Big Josh was less impressed with the number of singles being hailed and when called for a two off a mis-field, his full length dive and resultant brown stripe on both shirt and trousers left onlookers wondering if there was any more fuel in the tank.

Thankfully a maiden half century and career best 55 was forthcoming, followed soon thereafter by Harvey finishing on 52. Aided by a late flurry by the lower order, a respectable 189 total was lodged.

Lightcliffe’s opening bowlers Mark Whiley and Josh Booth ensured the visitors had to work for their runs, but a catch from Dylan hill apart, inroads could not be made.

Unfortunately the change bowling couldn’t contain a strong and youthful Wesleyans top order and Almondbury’s well paced innings rarely looked likely to falter, and despite two wicket a-piece for Kelly and Hill including a fine catch in the deep from Jack Booth, the Thirds though far from disgraced, remain win-less in the League.