Saturday XI Match Report 28th May 2011

Match Report - Week 4

NH 162-7, South Nutfield 158 AO

On a breezy day at Inholms Lane, Sth Nutfield returned for the 1st time in some years with many familiar faces. Skipper Chris Walker won the toss and decided to bat on what looked a good track. Andy Gilbert and Walker started comfortably as the strong gusty wind hindered Daryl Goff's efforts bowling up the hill and Andrew Morgans swing bowling down. Morgan struck first as he had Gilbert caught well at gully by young Gavin Morrison. Bellars was next as Goff bowled him for a duck and when Ash Mills edged to Scott Minihane behind the momentum changed in Holmwoods favour.

Ian Elliott replaced Goff and a completely out of sorts Robin Lines replaced Morgan. Elliott bowled tightly and Darren Jordan who'd quickly replaced Lines bowled with skill and guile to put the brakes on the visitors, Chris Walker cut to Rob Jones for a fine 44 leaving only J Walker (47) and L Bellars (29) to make any significant contribution. Some good out fielding helped the bowlers as the 2 elder statesman of the team bowled the last 24 overs for just 55 runs.

Tea was lovely as usual, plenty to go around.

In reply Sth Nutfield decided to open with the old ball, L Bellars bowling leg breaks whilst Dave Gentles drifted the ball skilfully. Rob Tyers played on for 1 being replaced by Elliott who joined Jordan and all looked comfortable. Jordan then got caught at deep square from a top edge. Daryl Goff came out and started striking the ball straight ad true from ball 1. Elliott then got right under a booming drive giving a steepling catch to Gilbert.

John Dibble tickled one to leg only to be caught superbly by the wicket keeper. Robin Lines, needing to give back a little to his team mates started slowly but grew in to his role. When a mix up with Goff (49) caused a run out Lines took the responsibility to bat through and to try and win the game. Scott Minihane brimming with confidence from keeping well and batting last week added valuable runs quickly as the match was in the balance before going back to the leggy and being bowled for 14.

Rob Jones who has yet to get the chance to shine was bowled for a duck leaving young Gav Morrison to join Lines. Bellars then had the unfortunate situation of bowling the over to change the match as he dropped short to Lines who hit a huge 6 in to the houses. At the start of his next over Holmwood needed 18 to win in 4 overs but luckily Lines was now in and won the game in just 4 balls smiting the ball to all parts.
As organised well in advance the NH lads had all arranged to be around for some old school drinking games whilst the Champions League Final was being played...