Marton Village CC v Crick Lions CC

Play of the Day: Dave Allen (World Class catch on the boundary)
Batting Highlights: Frazer Grant (41), Adrian Ratnayake (30)
Bowling Highlights (O-M-R-W): Frazer Grant (6-4-2-1), Paul Preece (6-0-12-3), Dan Bunker (6-0-16-3)
Fielding Highlights: Mark Jones (3 catches)

Marton Village opted to bat first on a notoriously low scoring wicket, hoping to take advantage of the sunshine. They scored steadily early on reaching 33 before the first wicket fell, the first of three fine catches by Mark Jones. Wickets fell regularly from that point due to some excellent economical bowling; Paul Preece and Dan Bunker with three wickets a piece, Frazer Grant bowling six overs and conceding only 2 runs (both wides).

Fielding was top draw throughout the game, Dan Bunker with a run-out off his own bowling and further catches were taken by Charlie & James Gibbins before a world class catch on the boundary by Dave Allen sprinting at full pace. Marton finished on 128 for 13 wickets off 44 overs.

Despite the challenging wicket and with a long outfield, opening batsmen Frazer Grant (41) and Adrian Ratnayake (30) laid a great foundation for Crick Lions before their partnership was broken by a questionable LBW decision in the 25th over. Andy Goldney (13) came to the middle and was soon joined by Dave Allen (19 n.o.) , both scoring steady runs with some controlled batting and despite a few rain showers.

As the rain cleared, James Gibbins (5) replaced Andy Goldney, taking Crick within 6 runs off victory. Thanks to a superb boundary by Dave Allen, the run chase was achieved in the 44th over with 8 wickets in hand. Another win for Crick Lions, two in a row on challenging pitches, and thanks to a great all-round team performance.