Following their heavy defeat last year, Romany strengthened their team for their annual visit; conversely the Yapham side, following their leagues decision to play less cricket this year, opted to give players from the Vale League sides an extra game as well as providing an opportunity for new comers to the club to get involved.

Batting first on a track that, according to those in the know, was either typically Australian or an August pitch in the south of England, Romany were soon averaging more than five an over. Stephen Hutchinson and Sam Noble, in their different ways, commanded respect from the batsmen but with a fast outfield it was difficult to restrict the flow of runs.

U15 players Rob Body and Ollie Robinson were both unlucky with the ball not quite going to hand on a number of occasions and with Andy Noble's return of 0-13 off his 8 overs putting the brakes on, Romany went into tea with 190 on the board when it looked at one point that they would easily exceed 200.

Yaphams fielding was never less than fully committed with Stephen Hutchinson's almost nonchalant catch off Sam Noble's bowling the highlight.

Romany opted to open with two spinners who soon found a good length, making the Yapham openers Mark Fairey and Sam Noble work for their runs. Neither looked in any difficulty however so it was a complete surprise when Mark was fooled by a straight one! Ollie Robinson joined Sam and the two colts took the score along steadily before both were dismissed in quick succession.

Making his debut for the club Craig Readhead looked an accomplished batsman, who with some more games under his belt will be scoring heavily whilst Simon Willis in his first innings of the season always tried to attack the bowling and ended with Yaphams top score of 34.

Martin Eede, the Yapham captain, dispelling rumours that he played in the era of top hats and curved bats, moved into the 21st century with a reverse sweep for four and then retired on 31 allowing Steve Spruyt to have a couple of powerful hits before the innings closed at 110 - 4.

Romany are always welcome visitors, always playing the game as it should be played and we look forward to their return next year.