This match was played in the shadow of Stoneleigh Abbey with the upper reaches of the River Avon flowing behind the pavilion. This 'chocolate box' setting greatly enhanced the pleasure of the afternoon for visiting players and spectators.

In the Leamington Spa Courier of 1st August it was reported that Stoneleigh's promotion challenge from their Cotswold Hills Division was gaining momentum with hard-working victories over rival teams. This information is offered merely to set the scene for Napton's challenge on the day.

Stoneleigh won the toss and elected to bat.

Napton's opening attack of Mike(E) and Sam kept the home team contained. Sam was especially frugal in his offerings to the batsmen. His first 4 overs conceded 3 runs whilst claiming an 'opener'.

At no time did the Stoneleigh batters really get to grips with Napton's attack.
The visiting bowlers efforts were complimented by fine fielding, some first rate 'keeping by Tim and, generally, catches staying in the palm.

A stubborn stand mid-to-late innings did threaten to accumulate a decent score but an inspired change of ends for Mike(E)'s last 2 overs put paid to that. Although he had bowled well in his first 6 overs he had not achieved a break-through.

Perhaps Mike has spent too much time around the recently purchased bull at the farm, but fellow team members reported that for those 2 overs his eyes shone red, his nostrils flared and steam came out of his ears. The result was 4 wickets for 3 runs. Devastating.
Stoneleigh finished on 127-10 after 39.2 overs.

This was an exciting innings to witness.
3 'caught & bowled' by Sam, JP and Mike(E).
2 stumpings by Tim off JP and Chris.
Tim also took a catch and there was another by Mike(N).
Sam, Chris and Mike(E) also got past the bat to the woodwork.

Although 127 runs should have been easily 'gettable', Napton had yet to experience the home team's attack.

Napton lost an early wicket but Joe and Paul settled down to steadily chipping away at the target.
After 18 overs Paul fell to an LBW decision following a very valuable partnership of 63 runs.
Joe reached his top form and was giving the bowlers problems with numerous boundaries. He was hitting the ball so sweetly that the fours and sixes seemed effortless.
Following support for Joe from James and Mike(E) Napton overtook the target in 28.2 overs for the loss of just 4 wickets.

This was a well-deserved win for Napton with all concerned giving their all.