Not the normal stroll against Chats Palace. We were made to work hard on an unbelievably baking sunny October day. It was definitely cricket season weather but unfortunately a load of footballers/local residents disagreed and the game was delayed by an hour and a half as they only moved when four police and an angry park supervisor arrived. Inbetween preventing arguments between warring factions skip Smith won the toss and agreed to reduce game to 35 overs.
Steve Lay was bowled by the first ball of the match by a peach from Chats's very useful inswing opening bowler. Nuggsy, promoted to open, also soon perished to that bowler flirting outside off stump. Tempany smashed 60odd in usual quick time and cleared the trees a couple of times. The middle order did not quite fire and it was only fireworks from Faisal supported by Smith that lifted Pacific to 225/8. There were a couple of horror drops by Chats fielders.
Chats lost an early wicket but after that their second wicket partnership kept the runs flowing at 5 an over and at 100/1 the game was wide open. Fortunately we had more bowling depth than they had and Webley and Allum forced the asking rate to over 10 an over. Allum got useful outswing to claim three wickets. Gleadow, who got three wickets, bowled tightly enough to finish the game off despite some determined swinging from the Chats tail. Holliday had a mixed day behind the stumps with two missed chances (one very hard admittedly) but some fine leg side stops as well and the byes total was not helped by some inaccurate and ropey scoring in contrast with Holliday's masterpiece.
THE OPPO REPLIES
Dear All, Thanks ever so much for a brilliant day yesterday (albeit one that hastens my personal retirement!). The delayed start was ok, as the weather was nice. I must admit that I was surprised to get all the overs in!
It was a bit odd during the first part of our innings as there was a strange contrast between brilliant sunshine and shade, but it was really enjoyable.
As ever, Tenpenny seemed to be the deciding factor, but we'll have you next year as he's going back home!!! He's scored significantly in our last three matches, despite giving chances that any other team than Chats Palace would accept!! Mind you, your bowling attack was strong throughout!
Tea was great - puts us to shame! We'll do it next time.
Thanks again, and I hope we get an October fixture again next year! I reckon the whole country should be able to book a late camping weekend based on when our October fixture is!
All the best Gary Horsman Executive Director
