Darwen Trounce Chorley
Normal service was resumed in the local derby after two years of embarrassments at the hands of Chorley. The mighty Darwen demolished our friends, as we
always used to, and gave a good excuse for some ex players to raise a toast to the new heroes. Darwen rattled up a massive 278 for 4. That score
looked along way off when we reduced to 7-2 with both openers going for ducks. Arise Sir Mohammed
Zaman Khan. Our professional scored 157 runs and confirmed his status as the best batsmen in the league. He clubbed the hosts all over the park and set
a massive total so we could attack for victory. Zimmy was not alone in his carnage as Alex also weighed in with 62 to enhance his growing reputation. Captain
Chaos also red inked a quick 29.
The Chorley reply was soon in tatters as Kammy decided to rip through it single handedly. The hosts were floundering at 9 for 3 and then 34 for 6. The new look
Darwen attack performed admirable, Kammy led the way as the senior pace bowler, ably supported by Wadey, who got his first professional out, and all rounder
Niallers who picked up a couple and took 3 catches. Good to see the fringe bowlers get a chance, but more importantly take it with both hands and give the selectors
a headache. One thing for sure you can't change a winning team after such a performance.
Lancaster Bombed by Zimmy
The new winning Darwen roadshow carried on its merry way. This time dispatching last year's wooden spoonists Lancaster. The Bombers won the toss and took
first use of the track. After a steady start only losing Heywood Jnr and a very good friend of mine Tim Barry, the visitors cut loose against a depleted
Darwen attack. Visiting professional Roy Silva blasted 103, ably supported by Captain Stevens 48. Just when it seemed an unobtainable score was going to
be posted, the Towers fought back. Neville took 5 wickets and restricted them to 212 off 50 overs. Nathan 'Scooter Ainslie' Jackson picked up a
wicket then split his hand and will miss the next few games. Chris Clarke, after performing well with the ball last week, was overlooked for some reason.
Rumour has it he said anyone who holds a wedding reception at Hoghton is a complete loser as it is the middle of nowhere with no proper facilities for families.
An encouraging s gyue GHJ./tart by the Niall and Slowey put 43 on the board and gave a platform for an assault at the Lancaster total. Losing 4 wickets for
22 runs was not so encouraging. Alex and the abusive Clarke both falling for ducks. Neville joined the unflappable Zimmy and soon the Darwen ship was back
on course. When he fell with the score at 120 and with the sight of captain Johnnyboy walking to the crease, Zimmy decided 'if I don't get these quick we
are doomed'. And get these he did with an imperious unbeaten match winning century. Spurred on no doubt by the support of the returning table topping
second team, who had skittled Lancaster for 56. The watching second eleven actually increased the average spectator age to 77.
Another 12 points and we climb to 5th in the table. Preston and Chorley away next week with a little bit of slog cricket in between. Enjoy your cricket!
The Tide Turns at Fleetwood
Darwen stopped the rot with a winning draw at Broadwater but should really have taken maximum points. Darwen skipper Cordingley elected to take first use
of the track. Once again early wickets fell as Lobo (studying braille from all accounts) and Burkovic scored 9 and 14 respectively. The consistent professional
Zimmy once again passed the half century mark as he got 61. Useful contributions from the middle and lower order, especially Neville (41) ensured a good total
of 201 was set for the hosts to claim victory. The Two Fleetwood Australians (Frith - Professional and Smith - English Passport Overseas Amateur) bowled 35
overs between them.
The Fleet reply was soon in trouble as Kammy picked up the opener and Neville removed the 3-Dog Clinning. Professional Frith stood firm as wickets fell around him
but when Zimmy knocked him over surely it was only a matter of time before the rest of them fell. Unfortunately it proved not to be the case as the ninth wicket
pair held up the Darwen onslaught. They batted for 60 balls until Kammy got the final of his three wickets. Fleetwood closed on 145-9. Spin king Clarkey
finshed with 3 wickets from 6 overs.
10 points which should have been 15 but a welcome return to form and a positive result. The absence of strike bowler Yakub, deemed unable to play by Lancashire
due to injury, is not helping the points tally.Let's hope he is back soon as it's Lancaster next up at Birch Hall on Saturday. Get up for it!
More Misery from Morecambe
Darwen slumped to their third straight defeat in a pulsating encounter at Birch Hall. Visitors Morecambe had first use of the track and scored 198 for
just five wickets. Darwen, without strike bowler Yak, soon removed half of the leagues oldest opening partnership when Dennison fell to Kammy, but the
visitors slowly built a decent total without looking in any danger against a toothless home attack. But the hosts still had the upper hand until the
popular Morecambe professional Mashimbi came to the crease. He smashed 63 which included 5 sixes to swing the momentum into the visitors favour.
kammy was the only bowler to take any wickets. He got 4 and a run out and a bit of tap.
Chasing a higher total than was expected Darwen knew they
would have to bat well but had the knowledge that the Morecambe attack on paper looked very weak. Opener Niallers was bowled early on but Lobo and Zimmy
rebuilt. They both committed the cardinal sin of getting in then getting out. Neville came to the crease and smacked the buffet about to take us within
sight of victory. The game changed when he was sent packing, adjugded LBW by the ice cream seller with the white stick. 150 for five soon became six when
the captain went. Unfortunately the efforts of the strong lower order were not enough and from the last ball of the game Kammy was out to hand maximum
points to the potted-shrimpers. Debutant Chris Wade batted at number 9. Not because that is where the captain asked him to, he was in fact number 11.
However, schoolboy errors from both Kammy and Jordan meant that when the out of form Paper got a fourth ball duck neither had bothered to pad up!
Another exciting game but not the
desired result. Opportunities for victory are presenting themselves but as yet
we have not been good enough to gran them.Fleetwood next were the rot must be stopped. And a National Knockout match on Sunday.
Shamateur Steers St.Annes To Victory
A fantastic undefeated 135 from Atiq Uz-Zaman ensured the current champions St. Annes took 12 points against a spirited Darwen team. No-one can deny his quality but should
he be allowed to participate in a league that states ONE professional for each team? When you are on the end of 135 of his runs the question of his legitimacy
is at the forefront of your mind.
Darwen racked up a total of 226-9 in which everyone contributed. A competitive score thanks to the ever improving Niallers (45), the reliable Zimmy (41) and big Alex.
AD, fresh from holiding his own for Lancashire Seconds midweek, posted his top score of the season with 55. Valuable clonks from Paper and Johnnyboy ensured the
pressure would be on the chasing team and the past has told us when the pressure is on St.Annes are capable of crumbling.
The two pros opened up for the hosts and took the score to 29 before Hettiarachchi retired hurt. It must have been having to bowl 25 overs once again.
This brought Northern League journeyman Boucher to the crease. The Yak soon sent him to back. When the returning swot Chris Clarke removed Twist there was
little batting left. Zimmy picked up a couple and Duncan was run out without facing but the immovable object Uz-Zaman guided them to victory with 7 balls to spare.
If we continue to play like this there will be more good days than bad. Morecambe next up at home.
Wheels Come Of Against Barrow
Darwen's encouraging start to the season was brought to a shuddering halt at Birch Hall as the visitors from Barrow took away 12 points and left the hosts
with a big fat zero. The game started in shambolic circumstances as the umpires deemed the original pitch unfit for play. Another wicket had to be used and
after losing the toss Darwen were given first use. But they decided not to use it very well and were soon in the mire. Niallers and Mr Angry Jackson had
their stumps removed by Cumberland bowler Dawson. Usually saying someone plays for Cumberland is no guarantee of them having any cricketing ability,
however Dawson is a decent bowler and the removal of professional Zimmy emphasised this point. At 8-3 the omens were not good. At 49-7 they were even worse
after brief stays for Neville and Alex, and even shorter for Kammy and Munnsdog. Enter Captain Cordingley and cousin Jordan Clarke who battled to add a
semblance of respectability to the total. Johnnyboy, batting at 6, scored 40 and Jordan an excellent 41 not out. The Yak was run out before Andrew
'red-inker' Cook was out for the first time in his career. 128 all out was the final tally, not great but on the fresh pitch there was an outside
chance of a surprise victory.
After an early strike from Neville, Barrow eased themselves towards the target with Miles and professional Wanasingheyouasong doing the damage. Miles was runout
by fielder Cook at 63-2 to give a glimmer of hope. The Yak produced a hostile spell an removed Clark and Lancashire Academy colleague and big head Livingstone
for another duck. But it was to no avail as the visitors professional hit a match winning 72 not out.
A reality check for the Darwen youngsters who will glad to have in form PC Paper and Lobo back for Monday's trip to the champions St.Annes. For those of
you who don't know Chris Lowe refuses to play against Barrow. It used to be just the away fixture and the ridculous trip into Scotland. He will be in Romania
when we play the return fixture as he says it it easier to get to. But he loves a trip to the seaside and will be back on Monday.
Carnage at Carnforth
Like a bunch of pansies blooming in a garden, Darwen also seem to be thriving in the early season sun. Carnforth were put to the sword by the Towers and 12
points were on their way back down the M6 faster than Horsey's order for body armour. New property magnet Johnnyboy Cordingley proved what a good
tosser he is. Firstly, by winning and asking the hosts to bat first and secondly by proving that he is not the new Gordon Glover, by eventually moving out
of mummy's house as he rapidly approaches 30.
Carnforth, on the back of a massive 27 all out performance the previous week, were soon on the rack as Bhamji removed an opener, but a solid partnership followed
between Rovers skipper Ryan Nelson and Hi-De-Hi camp entertainer Ted Bovis. Things were looking a little bleak, even if it was slow going, until Zimmy trapped
Bovis plum in front of Spike, Peggy and Miss Cathcot. With an end now open Darwen went for the kill and wickets began to fall. The ever improving Yak, who
will also be representing Lancashire Colts this season, picked up two more wickets both for ducks including the original 'more badges than a five star
general' Shah. Two run outs, two more LBW's for Zimmy and a wicket for Kammy and the Carnforth innings fizzled out into a respectable (they scored 27 last
week don't forget) 176-9. Opener Nelsen blocked the sh......, sorry carried his bat scoring 79 not out from 50 overs having had to watch the collapse from
the other end.
The Darwen reply was started by Alex Davies and Niall ByNature, the latter replacing new dad Chris Lowe who was a little tired after ONE nights interrupted sleep, but
it was Alex that was soon back in the hut for a rest for a quack. It didn't matter as Niallers and Zimmy put on a magnificent century partnership, smacking the
Carnforth attack to all parts in no time whatsoever. Forty for the impressive Burke, who has been training at university and can now down a pint faster than his dad,
then Johnny came and went. Zimmy fell 3 runs short of a well deserved century but he had guided us to victory in just 30 overs. We could have chased 300 plus
with the batting that was left!
Next week sees a double header with Barrow at home on Saturday before a trip to the seaside on Monday to title holders St. Aidans. More of the same please.
Paper Sets Up Near Perfect Start
On a sun-drenched day at Birch Hall new captain Johnnyboy Cordingley won the toss and somewhat surprisingly decided to bat. Going for maximum points against
Kendal a team who always love a trip to Darwen. The sight of the old stalwart groundsman (the new one unbelievably not contracted on Saturday!) hammering
the wickets into an uncharacteristically rock hard track may have swayed the decision.
Father-to-be Lobo and Alex gave the hosts a steady start both fell in quick succession. New professional Mohammed Zaman Khan stepped to the crease and held
the innings together while wickets tumbled around him. At 79-5 we were in trouble. Enter PC Mark Emery to join Zimmy and give him the support required. They were
both batting well until Zimmy fell. Kammy joined Paper and the pair cut loose to take us towards a commanding total. Having got into the forties Paper had
scored his highest score since knocking brother Simon round his back garden. Could he score a maiden 50 and get a collection to keep him cider for an evening?
No! He ballsed it up on 49 and cost the team free pints! However his fantastic knock in tandem with Kammy's and a quickfire 17 from Jordan Clarke put Darwen to a fantastic
212-8.
The Darwen attack soon had Kendal in trouble as the returning Neville Cordingley picked up a wicket, and then Lancashire's Yakub snapped up the prize wicket of
Terry Hunte. When Kammy removed professional McMillan victory looked to be on the cards, but Kendal's other decent player Haworth had other ideas and scored 66.
Wickets tumbled in the last few overs but Kendal finished on 140-9. Three wickets for Kammy and Yakub, two for Nev and one for Zimmy.
Maximum winning draw points of ten and a great start to the season for the Darreners.
Southport Away Pre-Season Match
As rag tag Darwen eleven took to the field it was reminiscent of Dad's Army.
A team made of up of 3 first team regulars, including the pro, some fringe 2nd teamers, including the veteran 2nd team captain Gary Gary Jackson,
finished off with a sprinkling of 3rd team players in Messers Horsfield and Painter, all under the reluctant captaincy of Andrew 'Chaos' Cook.
Pick of the bowling was Chris Clarke with two wickets and one from Niall By Nature, who were helped in the field with some comedy fielding from the aged
Horsfield, dropping 3 catches and some hilarious ground fielding. Southport scored 177
As for the batting Chris Clarke scored 41 and there was a useful knock from the pro Zimmy, but unfortunately they fell and there was no real batting left
in the locker once Horsfield and Painter took to the wicket. Wadey tried valiantly to boom Darwen to victory but soon came a cropper leaving body builder
Gregor Lawrenson and Captain Chaos to try and force victory but to no avail.
Darwen fell 25 short on 152 but had a good run out. However I think the commitment of some people needs questioning and priorities sorting. Some senior players
decided they did not need the practice. Roll on windy Bacup next Saturday!
Yours in sport
UnNamed Source - A DCC Insider
Darwen were without 3 first team regulars on Saturday as they took on league leaders St.Annes for a variety of reasons. Gareth - hernia - Lobo - Soft Cell
pop concert - Hammo - broken finger nail. However none of them were missed as they managed to keep them down to 132-8, with a combination of excellent
fielding (3 run outs) and tight bowling.
Darwen were on course for victory with deputy professional Zimmy Khan coasting along on 28 until the finger of fate struck. A dodgy LBW decsion sent him off
and the title to St.Annes when it could well have been going to Preston, who had already completed an easy victory. In the face of two fine spinners on a
slow wicket there was only one outcome, especially with the generous decisions being dished out by the officials in favour of moneybags St.Annes. The coach
load of St.Annes supporters revelled in the glory of a league title!!
A final finish of third from bottom is a great disappointment to all but in truth we have not been good enough. Most of the teams in the league are pretty evenly matched
but when push has come to shove we have been found wanting on all fronts.
The emergence of Alex Davies has been the high point of the season and the continuing improvement of Kammy and Yakub.
A special mention should go to Captain Chaos ... sorry Cook. In a difficult season has kept his sense of humour and been a great ambassador for the club.
After being told how to captain the team by one committee memeber he has never looked back - well done Cookylad!
The Bad Weather Saves Chorley
David Wiese's last game in a Darwen shirt ended in a losing draw against the old enemy Chorley. I say 'enemy' in the loosest possible terms as the ill-feeling
that used to be seen a decade ago has all but vanished. No more invitations from Darwen players to 'show us your Northern League winners medals' - no more Chorley
players frequenting the bar with proudly displayed bum bags - the game has changed. They won the last 3 encounters with ease, but on Monday the rains saved
them. Despite having lots of practice throughout a long season, Cooky's tossing abilities have been questioned. On this occassion he won and asked Chorley to bat first.
Wiesa signed off with 4 wickets having begun to master the art of bowling on crap wickets. There were also wickets for Kammy, Gareth and leading wicket taker Hammo Doos Doos Doos Dooos Poos Poos Poos.
Stuart pictured below continues to find time to play cricket in between his day job of advertising caricatures on Facebook.
We were cruising towards victory when the rains came and despite the efforts of the umpires it was a frustrating losing draw that was the net result.
The Doos at Work on Facebbok
Low Scoring Loss
Saturdays this season have regularly meant one thing - a Darwen defeat. And this week proved to be no different but it was a close game and could have gone either way.
Due to heavy rain the pitch was wet and Cooky, like the clown that he is, lost the toss once more. Play was delayed for hours so we couldn't go to Ewood then got under way. Alex improved on last week by lasting two balls before being caught at gully - we'll let him off because he is going to be brilliant. Nathan was out plum LBW missing a full bunger from Cumbrian Minor Counties legend Parkin. Who says the standard of cricket has gone downhill?
Weisa aka Charlie Williams clonked a few before being trapped on the crease LBW again from the same umpire that got him at St.Annes. In the end a paltry score of 82 was posted from 29 overs.
Kendal were soon in trouble losing 2 wickets in the first over, including the leagues best ever batsmen Terry Hunte for a second ball duck. Professional McMillan soon followed and with MintCake on 25 for 5
a victory looked on the cards. The departing Weise picked up 6 wickets and 'Come on Kammy' 3. With one over remaining and 5 needed for victory, even a winning draw was possible. Two dot balls later they need 5 from 4. Number 11 swiped and it just cleared Nathan who if he had some new boots might have made a spectacular catch. 3 from 3 required - an edge and ... oh no there's no third man - four runs - game over.
Back to Losing Ways
It's a funny old game cricket. Two young England players were on show at Birch Hall. Two young England players were out for first ballers! Having been inserted we were soon trouble at 5 for 2 until Stonewall Lowe and the experienced Cordingley led a recovery to get us upto a 100. Some good clonking from paper and Clarkey meant we reached a competitive 168.
Barrow bowled an excellent line and length but it was a total that we could defend.
Unfortunately the visitors got off to a flyer and were 50 off 10 overs. The Yak got us into the game with a couple of wickets in between no-balls. After a couple of run outs there was a chance of victory. With a bit more luck and a few plum lbw not being given, the chance came and went.
League Victory at Last
Darwen completed the double over a troubled Leyland oufit at Fox Lane. Having won the toss Leyland decided to make use of the wicket and were soon in trouble as professional Ameer Khan was caught at slip in the first over of Wiesa. Ameer Khan had just been notified that
he will not be returning to Leyland next year after 4 years of excellent service. There then followed a procession of good bowling from David and Kammy
and the hosts were in trouble at 22-5. They eventually finished on 99 all out thanks to some spirited resistance in the lower order and Cooky's bowling.
One member of the slip courdon had a day to remember dropping one regulation catch, then managing to trip over his own feet while attempting to catch another.
He scooped a superb one hander but then faced accusations that it didn't carry as Leyland looked to make excuses for the inept display.
The chase was to be a formality with 65 overs then it wazzed it down and after hours of sitting around doing nothing the game was restarted with 100 to win off 26 overs. Nathan and David eased us to the victory target. Weisa produced a controlled half century with a superb reverse sweep, and Nathan 32 compulsively hooked runs. Johnny came in to red ink us home with 6 not out off 50 balls and the victory was ours.
Barrow at home next week - more of the same please.
Nearly at Netherfield
Darwen slumped to another defeat at the hands of current champions Netherfield. The hosts elected to bat and amassed 252-5 on a good track which had some movement which was not utilised well enough by the Darwen attack. Some lucky wafts also helped but it could have been worse.
Our reply began with Alex smashing the Netherfield professional to all parts before Johnnyboy the clown ran him out. For once all the amateurs contributed and looked like they were actually batsmen, but they all got in and got out. Chris Clarke looked to be guiding us to victory before another run out cost us dear. Yakub played some wonderful shots but we finished 17 runs short with 2 overs to go. This was much improved batting performance which needs to be carried on for the rest of the season. The bowling at present lacks penetration as all the better batters for other teams are getting runs and do not look like being troubled.
Would Have - Should Have - Could Have
All fifteen points were there for the taking at Broadwater. Unfortunately we were not good enough to take all 10 wickets despite having 18 overs to bowl with 7 wickets down and had to settle for a deserved 10 points.
If anybody had turned up late for the game they would have been amazed to see the first decent opening partnership for 5 years. Chris Lowe, in the form of his life, hit 54 excellent runs and was talked through it by Alex Davies. The youngster scored 89 runs to show what a fantastic talent he is - he knows how to score big runs and will no doubt score plenty more.
A score of 214 for 4 was well above par on a slow wicket and enough to force victory.
Kammy bowled Derbyshire contracted player Chesney Hawkes first ball and the charge to victory was on. It soon became apparent that the worse you bowled the more wickets you got. So Hammo was brought on and bowled the same as he normally does and picked up three. With 5 wickets down at the half way point there seemed only at matter of time before the victory was in the bag. But some blocking and lucky slogging meant that in form Fleetwood clung on to a draw. Hardly deserved but a little more spin may have been the order of the day to keep the tail playing shots.
A much improved all round display and something to build on.
Horror Show at Birch Hall
Darwen were resoundingly thrashed by Morecambe at Birch Hall. The hosts were inserted and scored 195-7 on a slow but true Darwen wicket. It has to be said that some of the bowling was absolute toilet until later on in the innings. Kendal, sorry Morecambe batter Ullah and some crank who edged every shot put on 100 plus for the first wicket. Spinner Chris Clarke started the fightback and was ably assisted by Anwar, Wiesa and Cordingley.
The old man of the team going through the pain barrier once more after having his nose broken in the warm up game of rugby / american football.
The batting, oh dear oh dear, it was best described as a shambles. All out for 71. The last 5 batters all out for ducks! Thankfully its our weekend off next week and time for some reflection on what is the best way to move the team forward.
Preston Take All 12
When Cooky lost the toss on a rubbish Preston wicket the writing was on the wall for a low scoring affair. At one point this low scoring affair could have been about 60 or 70 but for some useful knocks from the lower order.
Once again early wickets were lost in the face of some good bowling on an unpredictable track, however some of the shot selection was bobbins. Johnnyboy tried to get us back in the game before a dodgy LBW came in to play. A total of 118 was about 20 or 30 runs short of target but
still gave us a fighting chance.
The rains came and 23 overs were taken of the Preston attack. The rain actually helped Preston as the ball skidded on and nullified the problems of the first innings. But some excellent catches from Lobo and Alex ensured it was a close contest as we picked up wickets regularly. We eventually lost in the last over
and were left to rue some bad batting and half chances.
Morecambe at home next week - time to stand up and be counted.
All season there has been a fine system in place and as you can imagine with us near the wrong end of the table the kitty is swelling at the moment. Somehow the captain of the club escaped what should have been a mandatory £5 fine after believing that all league games were now 49 overs.
Having run a dicey third run at the end of the 49th over, the Cook placed his bat under his arm and marched to pavilion with 118 on the scoreboard.
'He knows what he's doing' - 'he thinks we've got enough' - 'he's declared and thrown the gauntlet down to Preston' were the cries from the sideleines.
Unfortunately none of the afore mentioned were true. Captain Chaos believed there had been a rule change to 49-49 sanctioned by Northern League rep Simon Painter.
In the face of hilarity from the pavilion Cook returned to the crease and attempted to compose himself. Next ball he ran himself out.
Now if ever a whopping fine needed to be handed out this was the time, but once more the elusive Cook escaped.
Losing Draw at St.Aidans
St.Annes posted 245-9 at Vernon Road after being asked to bat first by Captain Cook. At one stage it looked as though 300 would be the score to chase as St.Annes shamateurs Twist and Atiq both got hundreds. Without the absent Yak, Cooky took the new
ball on a flat low dry track. Wiese and Cook both got early wickets which only brought the main St.Annes players to the crease. As Twist faced his first delivery from Cook there were suddenly three slips and a gully, a tactic thought of in Marigolds at 3am no doubt. Unfortunately Cooky had not morphed into Malcolm Marshall and sent down three full bungers to give him a nice easy start!
Captain Cook was in the thick of the action all day, or should have been, the way he stood at third man talking to his dad rather than setting the field was rather strange, however he did talk his dad into buying a round
of drinks after the match. Thanks Mr.Cook. The Darwen attack lacking a spinner and without spin king Clarke were flayed on a seamers graveyard until Wiese and Cordingley manged to halt the march to 300. Big D bowled 21 overs and got 5-96, too many overs this is not Lancashire League cricket, and would have had
better figures if not for one over of experimental spin which went for 20! The fielding overall was good on a fast bumpy outfield with only one drop and one jib the downside.
The run chase began well with Niall and Alex smacking the seamers, the breaks were applied when two left arm spinners, the St.Annes professional and the returning Yogi Baer came on. Alex batted with maturity and skill and must be in the first team every week. Wiese was adjudged LBW to a ball that hit him outside off. Cordingley got out just as the momentum was swinging to the visitors and the game peetered out until Johnnyboy tried to win it single handedly.
He scored 50 before trying to get 45 off 3 overs against the wishes of the captain and almost handed victory to St.Annes.
9 points to St.Aidans - 7 points to Darwen. Preston away next week as we have reached the halfway stage of the season.
Lancaster Bombed Out by Wiese
Darwen got back to winning ways at Birch Hall against potential wooden spoonists Lancaster. Darwen won the toss and asked the visitors to have a bat. They were
soon in trouble as the Yak took a wicket with his first ball. The Wiese man then took control. It took him 4 weeks to work out that you don't need to steam in on Darwen, just
bowl like Dave Bonner, accurate and moving off the seam. He finished with 6 well earned wickets and there was two for Hammo and a first league wicket of 2009 for Kammy. Lancaster could only muster 106, a score that looked a long way
off at 47-7.
Darwen stuttered early on as usual until Wiesanus and Grumpy Lowe steered us home with a well constructed partnership. Lobo learnt his trade in the midweek league of Harrogate for the mighty Markington CC and he
was back to his midweek form with sDome excellent shots. David at the other end clonked 'em all over leading to comparisons to early 90s professional Scott Hookey. The fact that David Wiese has a brain ensures any
further comparison outside of cricket is a non-starter.
League leaders St.Aidans away next week, time to go log onto Facebook and update my status to tell the captain exactly what I think off him!
Lower Order Hang On For Losing Draw
Darwen were put to the sword at Kendal as the hosts finished on 216 for 5. Probably a par score on a good track with few demons, or so we thought until Darwen started batting.
Kevin Howarth scored hundred for the hosts but was helped by a couple of hard chances going down on 69 and 93. Spin king Chris Clarke was the pick of the attack and picked up the prize wickets of Hunte and professional McMillan. The
rest of the bowlers toiled without much success.
A good sensible start was required but Nathan turned into Simon Painter and shouldered arms for the second time this season. McMillan was moving the ball off the seam, something we failed to do and picked up 6 wickets. At 60-6 the game was gone and the early session for the
ale heads of Darwen was on the cards. But some excellent batting from Kammy, Hammo and the Yak meant we somehow managed to escape with a draw.
Three home games next week, Chorley in Twenty20 on Friday, Lancaster are the visitors in the league next Saturday and then Carnforth in the cup on Sunday.
Rained Off Again - Unbelievable
Darwen were rained off for the fourth time this season - no wonder we are miles off top spot. This time we could not even blame the Darwen weather as we
were due to travel the 500 mile round trip to Barrow. In the end we did not even go, but with every other team in world cricket playing it seems we were either very unlucky or
too keen to get on the ale. That means the bottom 3 teams fixtures have all been abandoned without a ball being bowled.
Kendal away next week - let's hope we actually get a game in - or it hammers it down again as it's Scooter's stag do at York races on Friday!
Tower Power is Back
Darwen got back to winning ways at a sundrenched Birch Hall against Leylandi. Cooky won the toss and made an inspired choice of bowling first. This decision
looked to be a strange one as Leyland cruised to 121 for 1 off 30 overs, but it was not helped by some buffet bowling. The captain boldly threw the ball to
opening batsmen Chris Clarke, bowling for the first time since brother Jordan smacked him all over 10 years ago in the back garden. He produced an controlled
spell of off-spin and dragged the game back by dismissing both Reece and professional Ameer Khan caught at mid-off by the safehands Yak. Wiesey and the Yak then
reduced Leyland to 164 all out. At one stage 220 looked to be on the cards but some excellent fielding ensured Darwen were well in the game.
The Darwen reply stuttered as two LBW decisions accounted for Mr Angry and all rounder Clarkey. A 143 run partnership between professional Wiese and stalwart Cordingley
saw us home to victory after just 29 overs. Some brutal shots and massive clonks meant the locals in the houses were running for cover as Leyland had no answer to the onslaught. David finished on 89 not out and Gareth 50
The long trip to Barrow awaits us next week - more of the same please.
Better Bats in a Cave
10 batters went in and 10 batters gave their wickets away. Only David, Lobo, Nathan and the weather gave us a glimmer of hope. 99 all out was a least 50 runs short.
To stand a chance of winning early wickets were a must, when Big D removed the Chorley captain and then struck professional Hartley on his leg playing French cricket right back on his stumps, there was surely only
one outcome. However the decision unbelievably never came and so went any chance of a Darwen victory. The rains briefly came to try and salvage an undeserving draw
but Chorley went on to complete another easy victory and go to the top of the Northern League.
It's time to show some spirit and ability and bounce back next week against Leyland
Losing Draw against the Netherlands
When Netherfield realised they were not test match cricketers and finally decided they wanted a game of cricket on a slightly damp Birch Hall a closely fought
contest ensued. Professional David Wiese marked his debut for the club with an excellent all round performance of 3 wickets and 88 superly hit runs, but we eventually
fell 20 runs short of the 209 target. The score was probably around 30 or so runs more than par, due to a combination of poor bowling, dodgy catching and jibbing of catches. Optician Beeser
has a rush on appointments from the club for later this week. Ernie bowled 21 wholehearted overs and picked up 3 wickets and there were also 3 for old stager Cordingley.
The reply centred around Wiesedog who powered a number of boundaries to get us into a winning postion of requiring 36 run off 6 overs. Unfortunately we struggled to manipulate the spinners around
and fell 20 runs short with two wickets remaining.
Better catching, less 4-balls and manoeuvring of spinners is the order of the day if we want to improve and climb the league.
Rain Strikes Again
Can you believe it we got rained off again? Three weeks in a row. Professional David Wiese was eager to make his debut after warming up on Thirsty Thursday. But
He had little chance to show his quality as when we turned up at Carnforth it became apparent they were not that keen to play. Firsty no wicket had been cut. Secondly the token gestures to mop up
were half-hearted at best. The only time they showed interest in playing was when the game was called off and they unbelievably got changed and started playing off-ground tig on
the outfield. Why do people play cricket?
Let's hope the weather changes for the better as it's Netherlands and Chorley next weekend.
Tantrums, Storm Offs and Covers
Another weekend, another game abandoned. Blackpool batted first and made a steady start against some accurate and some wayward bowling in blustery conditions.
Hammo picked up another 3 wickets and Yakub continued his excellent start to the season. At 104-3 it threw it down, the covers were brought on but they were the old
ones. Not a problem until on their removal after a 45 minute downpour and the leakage on the wicket. Why didn't we use the new ones which cover 3 wickets only?
It was debatable whether the game would have continued anyway, but with water on the wicket and Blackpool knowing the were gonna get walloped by a team of amateurs, helped
by the interruption of the weather, the game was abandoned despite the hard work of PC Paper who tried in vain to make it playable with his new water hog.
Hopefully we will have our professional David Wiese with us for next weeks visit to Carnforth and we can get Captain Cook smiling again.
Early Call Off at Birch Hall
The game against Fleetwood was abandoned 10 minutes after Gareth arrived from Leeds. It seems as though the telecommunications newtwork was down between 1100 and 1300.
The basis for the call off was a super duper forecast from John Kettley. Good decision as they are always accurate. Some people paid their match tax, some refused to.
Blackpool next week at home.
KnockOut at Sefton Park
Darwen were sent packing out of the ECB Knockout at the first stage for the 3rd year running. This time Sefton Park were the victors. Kameron Anwar got
5 wickets and Jo Anderson clonked 49 including 4 sixes in one over. Other than that there was nothing else to report other than it cost 50 notes for the
teas.
Lucky Escape for Morecambe
For the first time in three years Darwen played at match Morecambe and were an agonising 4 runs from victory. The hosts elected to bat first on a wicket
that was good for the most part except for a sand dune just short of a length. The game started well for Darwen with Hampson once again taking the early
wickets of Goyal and Woodhead. Northern League journeyman Boucher dropped anchor, whilst substitute professional Shafi slogged and scabbed his way to an arsey
44. One of the strangest yet effective professional innings and probably a career best by a long way. This swashbuckling slog was ended by the introduction of
the Darwen sub professional Mohammed Zaman Khan, aka Zimmy, Dimi, Mallett, Zippy etc who soon bamboozled Shafi and took his middle stump. Zimmy bowled a super spell of
controlled spin bowling taking 3 for 33 of 20 overs. At the other end the combination of some loose bowling and a fast outfield enabled Morecambe to reach a
par score of 184. The Yak took 4 wickets including the Morecambe wicketkeeper Gudgeon. Gudgie, allegedly addicted to Facebook, became all at sea under a barrage
of references to his hobby. He poked about before his status was eventually updated when his poles were knocked over and he returned to the dressing room to remove
Lobo from his friends list.
Darwen set about the target well and were making excellently progress until it was interrupted by a contentious LBW decision and The Eyebrow was on his way back to pavilion.
The cruise towards victory was still in progress with Clarkey and Gareth easing the attack about until the sand dune struck. Two of the biggest pea-rollers in history followed and
back in the pavilion were Cordingley and pro Zimmy. Johnnyboy and Clarkey picked up the reigns until John was given out LBW of his bat. Cameos from Paper, Kammy and the Yakub left
us needing a six to win the game of the last delivery with the last man at the crease Captain Cook. What should he do? Could he win the game with a maximum? Would he go
for it and give Morecambe 15 points? For some reason all the fielders were on the edge and you guessed it the Cook play an immaculate forward defensive stroke.
10 points plays 7 in a game which with a little more know-how the victory would have been in the bag. Special mention for 14 year old Alex Davies on debut, he was excellent
behind the stumps and when given a chance with the bat will know doubt do the same.
No game on Saturday, then Sefton Park in the National Knockout on Sunday before a home game with Fleetwood on Monday. Hopefully by this time our professional
David Wiese will have arrived and be ready to make up for lost time.
Preston Sent Packing Defeated Again by Farnworth Shambles at South Shore Fifteen From Fleetwood Lancaster Bombers Grounded Disgraceful Darwen Weather Helps Darwen Take 9 Better Bats In A Cave Darwen Complete The Double Over Preston Handy Work but Another Loss to Netherlands League Cup Loss to Leyland Robbed By the Weather Twenty 20 - Defeat to Chorley Victory at Last Twenty 20 - Defeat to Chorley Twenty 20 - Last Over Loss to Leyland Darwen Fall Short Another Weekend Another Loss Blackpool Rock Darwen Bank Holiday Shambles Mint Caked at Kendal Sundays are Bobbins Lancs Cup Loss Losing Draw at Leylandi Darwen Win Thriller Carnage at Carnforth The Darreners Bounceback With Twelve Twisted But Not Stirred Atif The Record Breaker Fleetwood Smashed But To No Avail Netherlands Clogged All Over No Pushovers at Chorley Middle Order Heroics Rain Again and St.Annes Bullied into Submission Andrew Cooks Up A Miracle Its Raining Again and a Cup Disaster Rubbish on Fleet Street Batsmen Let Us Down Weather Ruins Bank Holiday Game Twelve from Preston Bullied at St.Annes Rain Stopped Play Carnforth Defeated Winning Draw at the Seaside Kendal Sent Packing Victory at Leyland Darwen successfully defended a low total to earn a tense 22 runs victory over Preston at West Cliff in the Second Division League Cup Final on Sunday.
Christian Davies, who set a new Darwen club second XI bowling record in league matches in 2008, continued his prolific season to the end, taking 5 for 20 as Preston were bowled out for 70. Defeat to Barrow
The 2009 season kicked off in fine style at a sun-drenched Birch Hall. Captain Cook lost the toss and we were inserted against a new look Preston team. Having added Adam Parker to the ranks of shamateurs and a couple of others the visitors must have been hoping for a flying start to the season. However it was not to be as the local lads produced a great display.
The Preston openers took the attack to some wayward opening tripe, then StuDog hit his groove and removed Patel and the dangerous Parker in successive deliveries. With only Bilal standing in the way of victory Darwen chipped away at the amateurs in front of a partisan
crowd. Preston keeper Charlie Williams set a new world record for being out LBW on the most consecutive occassions before the innings closed at 133 with 10 overs to spare. A maximum 15 points for the hosts, 4 wickets for Hammo, 3 for Garth, 2 for Chuckie and 1 for Captain Chaos. Fielding was excellent for the most part except for the Sleeping Policeman who demonstrated on a number of occasion how to dive and police escort the ball to boundary before beating up some helpless bystander.
The perfect start to the season and something to build on for next week at Morecambe.
Our second friendly saw a number of changes to the team, as the Easter weekend B&Q Sales made some players unavailable. Farnworth batted first and scored 125 All Out. The Yak being the pick of the bowlers taking an impressive 4 for 21 and cementing his place in the team for Saturday. Our batsmen could only muster 109 between them. Niall the only one who looked like he could hold a bat according to reports.
Anyway nobody remembers friendlies. The real stuff begins on Saturday - Preston at home - let's get up for it!!
Cricket season is back! Our first game of the 2009 season was a friendly away to Palace Shield team South Shore. But despite an excellent workout on the sunny Fylde coast, the result was disappointing.
Darwen batted first with my mon Nathan and the returning Chris Lowe making his comeback after a 3 year absence with a grazed knee. Mr Angry looked in good touch until he 'bakerlood' a straight one. Old stager Cordingley joined
Lobo and the ex-Markington midweekers soon found their touch despatching the ball to all parts before the Cordingley charged and missed one for 40. Lobo carried on and soon retired on 53. JohnnyBoy soon followed after a heavy session with Emery the previous night.
This didn't hinder the afore mentioned plod who hit a few lusty blows. Niall edged and clonked a few while Gary blocked a few, the highlight being Gary's two pull shots which didn't get off the square. We finished on 190 off 40 overs a good score on a reasonable track.
Hampson resumed where he left off by bowling a good line and length and was unfortunate not to get a wicket. Captain Cook eventually found some rhythym in his Terry Gennoe run up. Cordingley and Polar Bear Paper took over and kept things tight with the former taking the first wicket. Emery then ran someone out and all looked under control with the Burke and Nathan given a whirl, until some big hitting off Gregor put the hosts in the box seat.
Greg found his range and took a couple of wickets with the debutant Alex Davies taking a stumping.
Lobo was on fire in the field and got 2 run outs. The experienced pair of Hammo and Cook were left to close out the game. Which was all going to plan until the last over of the day. With 14 needed the opposition captain took a liking to Cooky and dispatched him for 6 and 4. 1 run from one ball was the equation - as Cook came in to seal the game with a yorker - he delivered a BEAMER which was given as a no-ball and the game was lost. No wonder a pint of the finest ale was delivered to Cooky straight after the match by a thankful South Shore skipper.
All in all it was a good pre-season game in which everyone got a workout. With Kameron to return, and The Clarkes and The Horse back for the next game on Sunday at home to Farnworth the captain will have many different team selections to ponder.
The 2008 season finished on a high at Broadwater as the visiting Darwen team took the maximum 15 points from the wooden spoon club. The start was delayed by an hour due to a saturated outfield, which was nowhere near fit to play on. Fleetwood were not up for playing but most of the Darwen team were.
Darwen were asked to bat first and after the early loss of Johnny, still batting on the beach of Dominica by the look of the shot, Jordan and professional Atif put on an excellent stand to take us close to a respectable total. Jordan highest score of 39 and Atif adjudged run out on 95 were the main contributors and there was some not so successful slogging in the lower order. An above par score on a difficult wicket was the thoughts as we tucked into the league best teas
Fleetwood however had different ideas and were riding their luck in between playing some good shots. It has to be said that the bowling was abysmal at best and the fielding ranked along side it. The same players that had said they wanted to play in unfit conditions were suddenly not bothered as the hosts were cruising to victory at 108-1.
The turning point in the game came when Parker was bowled round his legs by Anwar's slower one. Then came a procession of bad shots, good bowling and excellent catching/fielding. Cook after some persuasion took up the attack and soon removed '3 Dog' middle stump. Wilson was snaffled at gully by Atif, their 'pro' was caught by Clarkey at square leg, before next ball a snick was pouched by the number one first slip Cordingley snr, all off the emerging Kameron Anwar. Cooky soon got in on the act
as Wayno was caugh a mid off, and another was LBW. Hammo like Roger Harper ran out the next batter, before it was left to captain Cook to finsh of the game and season in style by bowling Breakell.
So another season passes by, but this time no trophies. Not surprising really as nearly half the team deserted us last year. However there have been many plus points throughout the season as well as plenty to work on.
Captain Cook took on a thankless task and did a wonderful job in the circumstances. Jordan continues to improve his keeping and batting with every game when he doesn't use head to stop the ball! Kammy is a massive talent and will have a great influence on future seasons with both bat and ball. Atif has been a prolific run scorer for us, sadly he will not be returning in 2009. Good luck and thanks Atif. Therefore the amateurs are going to have to deliver a bit more. Stuart Hampson, has exceeded expectations with the ball and provided comedy moments with his batting.
Winter well and get up for it in 2009!
Darwen went to a soggy Lune Road and were asked to bat first in what can only be described as one of the worst cricket wickets ever seen. However it managed to serve up an exciting game.
An excellent opening partnership of 60 from Nathan Jackson and Jordan Clarke meant we had a solid foundation. But we did not take advantage of the fact in the face
of some slow bowling that was turning square. In the end a total of 127 was competitive but not where we wanted to be.
A masterstroke of captaincy by Cooky meant he gave Atif the new ball and asked him to turn the ball square. Atif did as he was told and took 4 wickets with big spinning deliveries. He was ably supported by Stuart Hampson who bowled an immaculate line and length and was bowling
pea-rollers on demand. The turning point of the game was a direct hit by Clarkey to send Stevens packing. Hammo did manage to injure Jordan who was smacked in the helmet to a wicked rising delivery and had to go off to hospital with an nasty cut just under his eye. With a proper keeper behind the stumps, brother Chris, the Darweners turned the screw and went onto collect the maximum 15 points and climb the league table.
For the second time in 15 years Darwen slumped to an embarrasing defeat at the hands of local rivals Chorley. A combination of inept officialing and woeful batting ensured a season low of 87 was the posted score, which was surpassed with ease.
Darwen were asked to bat on a slow wicket and were looking forward to the task ahead, some where more excited than others in the warm up, but this excitement soon turned into a rather limp display. First Johnnyboy was fired LBW. Jordan bowled by the chief songster of years gone by Rex Purnell.
Atif looked to be batting well until he mistimed a smash to long off from McCullagh. Cordingley reached his milestone of 10000 runs, before promptly being given out once again. A procession of bad shots by the lower order meant that we could only muster a total of 87.
Chorley were never in any real trouble as we were not playing LBW's or run outs in the second innings and coasted to the total before the rain came to take 12 deserved points.
We have been thrashed on a handful of occassions this year but that made it twice against Chorley and this was simply not good enough.
Captain Cook once again looked at the weather forecast and made what turned out to be an excellent decision to bat first at the hallowed turf. Despite the early loss of Jordan and John, bowled and plum
LBW respectively, Darwen blocked their way in the face of some accurate bowling and a tricky wicket. Cordingley received some advice from Paul Edwards at the drinks break and was out next ball. Enter Christopher John Clarke, he batted the way we know he can do and hit 60 not out, more
of the same please CJ. Atif played an excellent professional innings, before launching an onslaught eventually out for 92. An above par total of 184 was the final score and now over to the bowlers.
The opening bowlers just didn't feel right as Cook and Anwar "The No-Ball King" Jnr failed to make the breakthrough. Hampson, rejuvenated after extensive coaching during the week soon removed the cocky youngster Livingstone, before Cordingley removed Miles with his first delivery. Professional Wanasinghe was still at the creas when the rain came with Barrow needing 80 off 20 overs with 7 wickets in hand. The farcical rules that apply in the Northern League, and that no-one ever does anything about, meant that when the rain stopped the visitors still need 80 this time off 5 overs. Having been on the receiving end of this rule in previous weeks Darwen were quite happy to accept the winning draw, which was boosted by 2 points as on resumption as four wickets fell to Kammo and Hammo.
The beautiful British weather meant another horrible day in more ways than one at the Seaside. As the league leaders took maximum points against a overly-generous
Darwen team. Having consulted Michael Fish, Captain Cook decide to bat first on a wet Blackpool wicket. Slow progress was being made by Jordan and JohnnyBoy until the latter had enough
of blocking it and spooned one up to mid off with 32 on the board. Atif and Jordy nudged the score along to 80 before the collapse ensued. When Jordan was caught for 35 excellent runs, there was a procession of dubious shots and decisions.
Veteran Cordingley, stalked by Mike Latham, found a new way to be out hitting pad with bat, Clarkey smashed one to midwicket, Kammy's relaxed manner meant he fell asleep at the middle after completing a straight drive, he was rudely
awakened from his siesta by the ball being hurled at his head. For some reason he ducked, the ball hit the wicket and Anwar Jnr was on his way run out like Graham Gooch v Roger Harper many years ago. Atif spurred on by the dulcid tones of his hero
Peter Andre semmed to be in fine form until he was caught on the edge for 29. Then it was time to watch 'Come Dancing' Darwen style starring Niall, Hammo and Cookanus. All three cranks were stumped off professional Weerakoon much to the amazement of the watching hordes,
as they pranced down the wicket waving a white flag! Enter Rocky Anderson who played some great shots to get us upto a still not respectable 124 all out.
The Blackpool reply was in early trouble as Anwar and Clarkson took early wickets, but Reece and Weerakoon were slowly guiding the hosts to victory and the progress was only going to be stopped by the weather. Or so it looked like as it teemed down with rain but we all enjoyed the Blackpool weather
decided to play so Blackpool could win. How times change. Reece was bowled by Stuart Hampson, commendably returning after an appendix operation only 4 weeks earlier, and there was a wicket a piece for Atif and Gareth.
Another 30 or 40 runs to make a par score on an indifferent Blackpool wicket would have been enough to secure a winning draw as soon as we finished the rain came, sorry the rain was the same as it was for the last half hour of the game!
A double header of Barrow at home and Chorley away this weekend - come on you Darreners!
On a balmy afternoon at West Cliff Preston decided to bat first on a typically stodgy Preston wicket. After a measured start and an opening stand of 35, a change of bowling resulted in the first wicket as Cordingley took Patel's off stump.
He then had the most blatant LBW decision and a catch behind turned down and would ultimately regret a prolonged appeal when it came to batting. Young Mickey Clarkson was brought into the attack and soon took his first professional
scalp having Bilal caught at mid off. Wickets started to fall at regular intervals in the face of excellent bowling backed up for the first time by some quality fielding.
Young Fayaz obviously forgot everything he was taught at Darwen and tried to mow the ball to the legside and lost his middle peg. Three wickets for Gareth, two wickets a piece for Atif, Mickey and Cooky, the captain's including two caught and bowleds one of them
a spectacular one hander.
The Darwen reply was in tatters at 4-3, all LBW's which we were now playing in the second innings as Jordan, Atif and Gareth were sent packing. Johnny and Clarkey started a repair job before the former ran cousin Chris out which was not very nice, and even worse gave his wicket away shortly
after. At 45-5 120 looked along way away. Jo Anderson clonked one onto the artificial then fell trying to repeat the feat. This brought Kameron to the wicket to join PC Plod and both of them became the Darwen heroes. Emery on his favourite ground, hit 32, the 100th time he has got out in the thirties,
and he and Kammy were so close to seeing us home until Lord Vader was run out going for a second run. Anwar Jnr showing maturity beyond his years, was guiding us to victory but Browny fell and red ink Cook came to the crease. When Kammy hit the winning runs the crowd was in raptures as the Darreners began their march towards the title.
An brilliant team effort let's hope for more of the same next week against Leylandi.
Darwen lost the toss at Parkside and were inserted by Netherfield Captain Barry Parry on a difficult wicket, and the innings was soon in tatters as John Cordingley, having been asked by the captain to build a solid foundation, tried
to put Clement over the castle and was bowled. This was about 3 overs after he was dropped first ball of the game trying to do the same thing!! Twenty 20 is rubbish!! Atif had to be out LBW to a swinging delivery from professional Ferguson and Gareth nicked one behind, that
left the Darwen youngsters and pensioner Gary Jackson to try and get us to a reasonable total. Jordan and Browny were fired, Hammo was plum but found time to console himself under a tree. Kameron Anwar, after excellent motivating skills from a senior team mate, decided to
show us that he can bat as well as bowl with some excellent shots and handy entertainment. Everyon chipped in to get us upto 157 on a more difficult than usual Netherlands track. However still 40 runs short of the required score.
Having devoured the 'best teas in the league' some of the younger element showed a complete lack of experience. Firstly Anwar Jnr and Browny decided they
were a little full and needed to run off some of the chips and pizza from tea. Hand in hand they skipped around the boundary edge playing catch much to the amazement of
their colleagues! Then Niall decided to leave the field to have another look at his tea in the toilet, much to Captain Cook's annoyance as two fours went down to where the Burke should have been. Strange place
to field third man at Netherlands, as one former popular member of the team had similar mishaps in the same position.
When Parry was bowled early in the hosts reply hope were high of a victory, but this all hinged on getting rid of professional Ferguson. Unfortunately despite all efforts
he decided to play until he scored the winning runs and finished on 89 not out. Wickets fell regularly at the other end but it was another case of 'if onlys'. If only we had 40 more runs, or Hammo had brought both lungs.
A defeat but an improved fielding display and an excellent performance from the lower order to give us any chance of a victory.
The final chance of silverware was taken from Captain Cook's hands at a sun-drenched Fox Lane ground on Sunday. On winning the toss Darwen decided to bat first on the slowest of slow tracks and amassed a creditable score of 200.
After blocking the early exchanges JohnnyBoy was top scorer with 55, Atif 46 and Gareth 40.
Unfortunately it wasn't to be as Leyland scraped home with 7 balls to spare. 30 extras played their part but there were some good performances, no-balls apart the Yak produced another excellent second spell and Nathan got his first pro out.
The weather had the final say in an entertaining encounter at Birch Hall. The game didn't start until 330 as some of the opposition for some unknown reason
were not keen on playing in perfectly playable conditions. The prima donnas were asked to put their pads on first and amassed a good total of 186-5 from 28 overs.
This was due to some good batting from St.Annes coach Uz-Zaman who scored 78. He should have gone for 40 when he was given not out after middling one to 3rd slip,
and then was dropped in the deep 15 runs later when Paper tried to catch the ball on his chin! Bickerdike and professional Ahmed made useful contributions, in the face of some
loose bowling and once again diabolical fielding. Hampson took 3 wickets bowling unchanged from the Darwen End
Darwen sent out the boom boom merchants Atif and John Cordingley to chase down the 6.67 an over total. Johnny smashed a couple of big sixes to give the innings some
impetus and but fell for 24. Ashraf played a usual excellent innings destroying the St.Annes professional with some power hitting. But the turning point in the match came when
the heavens opened with 4.2 overs to go. The players left the field and as a consequence lost 3 overs. Suddenly due to the ridiculous rules that are in play when bad weather is
about, the 34 runs needed for victory which Darwen were coasting to, were now needed of 1.2 overs. Atif finished on 85 not out and Gareth Cordingley was out for 47 off the last ball
of the match going for glory to reach his fifty - lack of experience some might say he should have boosted his average!
Netherfield away next up on Saturday and Leyland away in the quarter final of the League Cup on Sunday. With a little bit more luck and application these close matches may well go our way.
The South 2 group is wide open after Leyland lost by five wickets to Darwen at Birch Hall.
Leyland have finished their fixtures with two wins and a run rate of 7.32.
Chorley have won two games (run rate 7.70) and T20 holders Darwen one (run rate 6.03).
The final group game is between Chorley and Darwen at Windsor Park on Friday 11 July.
A win for Chorley will guarantee their place in the final. If Darwen win the group will be decided on run rate, though Chorley are favourites with their superior run rate so far.
Leyland's innings never really got going as Darwen's out-cricket was excellent.
Openers Karl Cross and Chris Parkinson put on 40 before both departed in quick succession.
Leyland pro Ameer Khan was victim of a stumping by Jordan Clarke off Darwen pro Atif Ashraf.
Peter Cummings was the danger-man, hitting four fours and two sixes in a blistering 34 until he was caught by Kamran Anwar in the deep off Ashraf.
Leyland's last ten overs yielded a disappointing 61 after they had looked reasonably placed at 60 for 2 at the halfway point.
Opener John Cordingley anchored the Darwen reply with a superb 71 not out, hitting four fours and two sixes.
Cordingley finished the match in the grand manner with a six over long on in the penultimate over.
Cummings completed a fine all-round match by being Leyland's best bowler, taking 3 for 12 including the prize wicket of Ashraf who was caught by skipper Dave Makinson at mid off.
Darwen's biggest threat was the weather but despite playing most of their innings in heavy drizzle the match was completed at 8:43pm.
Darwen returned to winning ways after 8 weeks of heartache. Captain Cook won the toss and asked Fleetwood to bat first, and his decision soon proved to be the
right one as the visitors were struggling at 26-3. Yakubu removed both openers, including the big-hitting Clinning, and Hammo picked up one to a great catch for
EmeryPaper. Parker began a repair job with a few lusty blows and some sound defence but was caught down the leg side off the bowling of Kameron Anwar Jnr. The visitors
captain Clarke, on his favourite ground, carried on rebuilding the innings and rode his look to reach fifty before the returning Yakub took his off stump. His innings
meant that Fleetwood got a respectable 154 in the face of some good Darwen bowling. The ground fielding however is still costing at least 20 runs a game and needs
to be addressed. The new Andrew Mercer, Stuart Hampson, continues to bowl consistently well and picked up another 4 wickets. His opening partner 16 year old Yakub Bhamji
bowls some great wicket taking deliveries and also took 4 wickets.
The Darwen reply started well with Jordan Clarke and John Cordingley, the new opening pair, adding 50 for the first wicket before Jordy tried one sweep too many and was given out LBW off the Fleetwood
professional Rupasinghe. JohhnyBoy and Atif then sensibly compiled a partnership to set up an easy victory. Atif batted superbly before he was caught at slip
off Blundell. The Cordingley brothers red-inked and saw us through to a well deserved victory. Johnny played a an excellent knock combining good running with a few big hits to finsh on 61 not out.
Champions St.Annes are next to visit Birch Hall - let's hope for more of the same.
A new name on the Northern Premier League T20 Cup looks almost certain this season after Darwen, winners of the competition in each of the previous two years, went down to their second successive defeat in the group stage.
Chorley opened their T20 campaign with a four-wicket victory, achieved with eight balls to spare in a game that mirrored Darwen’s defeat at Leyland three days previously.
Again Andrew Cook’s side bowled and fielded tigerishly aiming to protect what proved to be a below-par total. This time Darwen were all out for 108 off the last ball of the innings and despite an inspired bowling spell from Mark Emery, who took 3 for 16 to follow up his top score of 27 with the bat, Chorley got home with something to spare.
Darwen’s innings was in ruins inside the first three overs as Chorley’s highly rated South African professional Friedel de Wet got to work.
Fresh from recent county second eleven appearances with Middlesex and Lancashire, de Wet removed Chris Clarke in his opening over, caught by Nigel Eastham at mid on. De Wet then captured the prize wicket of Darwen professional Atif Ashraf, caught at mid off by Will Moulton in the third over to leave the home side struggling at 5 for 2.
John Cordingley struck some fierce blows before he was bowled by Kieran McCullagh and when Jordan Clarke was caught by Eastham on the boundary edge Darwen were 30 for 4.
Emery batted sensibly to help steer his side towards respectability before he top-edged Sam Sweeney to be caught by de Wit.
Joe Anderson provided the other main resistance with some clean hitting until he was bowled by Eastham for 20.
The last wicket pair of Nathan Jackson and Cook put on 19 to help steer Darwen past the century-mark with Eastham returning figures of three for 7 and de Wit and McCullagh each taking two wickets.
On a beautiful sunlit evening at Birch Hall, Chorley’s opening pair of the in-form Josh Tolley and Eastham set off like a train.
Eastham smashed his way to 16 until he was brilliantly stumped by Jordan Clarke off Ashraf in the third over.
Tolley, fresh from making a century for MCC against Stockport GS earlier in the day, had made 26 before he lofted Cook down to Ashraf at long on in the fifth over.
Moulton hit one stunning straight six over the sightscreen before he was bowled by Kamran Anwar to leave Chorley 71 for 3 in only the eighth over.
But Darwen then spied their opening and Emery was introduced into the attack with his little-used medium pace to good effect.
Emery claimed the wickets of Andrew Holdsworth, caught at mid-wicket by Cordingley and Chorley skipper Jack Catterall, another stumping victim for Jordan Clarke, in his first over.
And when Emery had Craig Millward caught by Cordingley at mid-wicket Chorley had slumped to 86 for 6 in the 17th over.
Michael Critchley batted patiently, however, and in partnership with de Wet steered the visitors past their target, settling the issue in grand style, hitting Emery for a glorious six over mid on.
See Gallery 2008 for a few action photos
Darwen’s first defence of their T20 title ended in a narrow three-wicket defeat at Fox Lane against Leyland in their first group game on Tuesday evening.
But Andrew Cook’s young side could take heart from an outstanding display of out-cricket as they fought to the end to defend a modest total of 126 for 6.
Kamran Anwar made two brilliant catches and Mark Emery another but Leyland, despite losing a flurry of wickets in the tense closing stages, won by three wickets with four balls to spare.
Darwen’s innings featured a solid 30 from professional Atif Ashraf before he was third man out, caught and bowled by Peter Cummings in the 11th over with the score on 59.
James Rounding had bowled a fine opening spell to dismiss Chris and Jordan Clarke. The former was surprised by a rearing delivery and was caught by Tom Reece, the latter was bowled.
Teenager Niall Burke batted with maturity to reach 32 before he was bowled by Leyland professional Ameer Khan.
But it was fourth-teamer Joe Anderson who provided the fireworks with a superb 33 not out that included four sixes, including successive sixes off Ameer Khan, and helped give Darwen a competitive total.
Captain David Makinson and Stephen Cartwright supported Rounding with good spells but Cummings and Khan were expensive.
There was no hint of the drama to follow as Leyland openers Karl Cross and Chris Parkinson calmly added 68 for the first wicket before Cross was run out for 38 in the 12th over.
Parkinson and Khan then took the score past the century-mark before the former was bowled by Yakub Bhamji for 37 to leave Leyland 101 for 2 in the 16th over.
Andrew Makinson was next to go, victim of a superb Kamran Anwar catch at mid-on off the bowling of Darwen captain Andrew Cook.
And when Ameer Khan was caught by Anwar at mid-off, a stunning, diving effort, off Bhamji Leyland were rocking at 110 for 4 in the 18th over. The tension increased as Tom Reece was run out in the same over after a misunderstanding with Cummings.
Needing 17 to win off the last two overs, Rounding hit Cook for a vital boundary before Cummings was caught by Anderson to leave seven still wanted off the final over.
Leyland skipper Dave Makinson hit the first ball from Anwar for a six over long leg to tie the scores before he fell victim to a stunning Emery catch at mid-wicket off the third ball of the over.
But Leyland wicket-keeper Matthew Watkinson kept his head, striking his first ball through mid-on for the winning boundary to decide an outstanding game.
See Gallery 2008 for a few action photos
Darwen ended their losing streak but still came out second best in a close encoounter against Lancaster at Birch Hall. Having won the toss skipper Andrew Cook
opted to bowl first and must have been regretting his decision as the visitors quickly got to 80 before the first wicket fell. Kameron Anwar took the wicket,
which was the first of four for the 17 year old who has a bright future in the game. However, the runs kept flowing from the bat of professional Umar until
Anwar deceived him with a slower delivery and took his middle stump. Cameos from the Lancaster middle order combined with a pathetic display in the field meant
they finished their innings on 209-7.
The Darwen reply was soon in trouble as the Clarke brothers both fell cheaply, before professional Ashraf and veteran Cordingley once again began a repair job.
They put on 100 for the next wicket until Cordingley was bowled by Barry. A succession of poor shots, when supporting Atif was the order of the day, then followed
and despite a magnificent century from Ashraf they fell 15 runs short.
Another weekend of 'ifs and buts' because with a bit more intelligent play victory would have been ours. Next match is a difficult trip to Morecambe.
The arduous journey to Barrow ended up in the home side recording a 15 point victory of hapless Darwen. Yet it could have and should have been oh so different.
On a bouncy and seaming wicket excellent bowling from Stuart Hampson and Kameron Anwar had reduced the hosts to 72-6. The next wicket did not fall until 110 runs
later as the Darwen attack had no answer to a fourteen year old who amassed 78 runs. Instead of chasing 140 maximum, we were set 198. The batsmen rode their luck
but stuck in before making hay later in the day in the face of some wayward bowling.
The Darwen reply was soon on the back foot as Jackson and Clarke both fell to the same shot at second slip from the bounce of the new ball attack. Ashraf looked in
fine touch as he and Cordingley tried to steady the ship and build a partnership. Atif had scored 32 when blasted one straight to midwicket and was well caught. JohnnyBoy soon played
down the Bakerloo to a straight one and then PC Plod pulled a slow long hop straight to midwicket. With the innings in tatters at 95-5 Cordingley miscued a pull and was well caught to
leave us staring down the barrell again. Kammy, Hammo and Yak soon fell, before Jordan was given out off his shoulder to end the innings. A pitiful effort against
an average attack, building innings and batting in partnerships are what is needed, hand in hand with better shot selection and execution or this could be a
long and painful season.
Again this was another game we were very much in charge of but let the initiave go and in the end we were comprehensively beaten. The ability is there but it is
time to start delivering.
A thrilling game at Birch Hall saw the visitors scrape home to a narrow victory. Having been asked to bat first Darwen amassed a decent total of 196. Probably
should have got a few more but it was the second highest score of the season and was a competitive total. A watchful Atif played a patient innings and got 52, while
the ever improving JohnnyBoy red-inked with 52.
Blackpool got off to a decent start until no-ball king Yak bowled Dosser for 10. Captain Cook bowled his best spell of the season and pegged the Seasiders
back with 2 wickets, before the professional had a few lucky wafts and managed to put the visitors in the box seat. Veteran Cordingley wrestled the initiative
back with a couple of wickets before Weerakoon and Danson looked like easily guiding them home. When pro Weerakoon was caught behind and Hogarth LBW to Hampson
the pendulum swung back to Darwen. Danson rode his luck having been plum LBW, then dropped twice with difficult chances, however Gleeson batted well and saw the visitors
home with 3 balls to spare.
A combination of no-balls, overthrows, missed chances, wandering fielders, bad balls, no runs in the lsat 4 overs when batting all contributed to the loss.
However we are competing well and just need that little bit of luck, or to grab the opportunities when they present themselves if we are to turn defeats into
victories.
Darwen lost to Chorley for the first time in over 10 years on Monday. On a perfect batting track having been asked to bat first the hosts could only muster
a paltry 133 All Out. This was due somewhat to an excellent spell of fast bowling from Brad Friedel the Chorley professional, but does not excuse some of the
ridiculous shots played. Clarkey, Gary and Atif all went early as Darwen plummetted to new lows at 6 for 3. The Cordingley brothers repaired the damage somewhat
and were in great touch until a ridiculous LBW decision sent Gareth on his way for 20. Cameos from Niall and Paper followed by daft shots soon led to furthe wickets,
then JohnnyBoy who was the last hope of decent total perished for 40. Jordan showed excellent technique to play Friedel with ease but was last man out. 113 on that track
against average bowling, pro apart, was about 80 runs light.
Early wickets were the order of the day and Captain Cook duely abliged, Kameron Anwar bowled well and picked up two wickets but some excellent batting from
a talented Chorley youngster Tolley 72 not out, saw them home to victory with ease. Nice of the Chorley team to have a drink in the bar after the game.
Blackpool are the visitors to Birch Hall next week - let's hope we start to shape ourselves.
The away day blues continued once again at an overcast and windy Kendal. Arriving 10 minutes before the start probably didn't help, as Darwen lost the toss and were
asked to bowl first against a Kendal team who seemed set on breaking the league record in 30 overs before declaring. Read these words and remember them - Andrew Cook
took a wicket!! Captain Cook who has been bowling well of late without success, has his old bunny Ikram Ullah the opposition's captain to thank. He got him out 3
times last year and remembering his fallability to long hop tried it again. Low and behold lightning strikes twice and the Cook is smiling once again. A barrage of
short pitchers and half volleys followed before a Hampson full bunger accounted for Howarth. With the main two at the crease Hunte and pro Macmillan a run fest started as
they reached 86-2 off about 8 overs and looked set for 500. Kameron Anwar replaced Hammo and took the prize scalp of Terry Hunte bowling him middle stump. In partnership
with Atif they turned the screw and began draggin the game back. Macmillan went into his shell playing sensibly as the new batsmen struggled. Strange team Kendal
they always have new players but have few local lads, do they have a youth system?? Anyway Atif bowled an excellent spell on a good batting track and took 5 wickets.
, ably supported by Cordingley, who crawled off his death bed to bowl 8 overs when he told the captain he had only come to bat, and Kammy who caught and bowled the pro
for 93. The fielding was excellent and a vast improvement and 214 was very gettable target.
Clarkey and Gary began well in a new gung-ho batting line up, before CJ got a bit of a grubber and was out LBW. Atif smashed a couple before being caught at midwicket,
Gorro and Garth began the repair job and were coasting towards victory with both in imperious form, until disaster struck, as Jackson seeking revenge for an early season run out
hit it to the professional and ran, not even a despairing dive could save Cordingley and the initiative was handed back to Kendal with the score on 118-3. To make matters worse
Gary and Niall soon fell. PC Plod and JohnnyBoy both looking in good form pulled the game back until Paper was dubiously given out LBW to a right arm round bowler in Simm.
No need for dissent though copper! It was now upto Johnny to see us home, but he went for the big shot and was caught at long on. Then Hammo played one of the worst shots in history
and was bowled. Hat-trick ball and Jordan missed it and was trapped in front as Howarth claimed the feat. Only Cooky and Kammy remained and nudged us upto 160, before after advice from the
captain Anwar was out next ball caught at short leg.
Defeat is difficult to take but we played well for the most part and should have beaten a team that will finish in the top four.
Another Sunday another defeat, this time at the hands of Roe Green in the ECB National Knockout. Darwen batted first and amassed the 201-9, thanks in the main to
the big hitting Stuart Hampson 73 not out and Andrew Cook 17 not out. Captain Cook alledgedly hit a 6 into the pavilion!! Contributions of 28,24 and 20 from Niall,
Johnny and Plod ensured a competitive total was posted.
However Roe Green had different ideas and easily knocked out the runs for the loss of just 3 wickets. The performance in the field has been described as the
worst by a Darwen team in the last 20 years. So plenty of improvement needed before the long journey to Kendal on Saturday, and Chorley on Monday.
Darwen crashed out of the Europe (Lancs Cup) at the first hurdle beaten comprehensively by Colwyn Bay, who recorded their first victory of the season at Birch Hall.
Poor batting and tidy bowling was responsible for a paltry 105 total, with only Atif making 40 and PC Emery red-inking on 17, having to watch A.Yeti take a hat-trick
from the other end. The Welshman coasted to victory suffering the loss of only 2 wickets.
Darwen were asked to bowl first on a humid day Leyland, and the new ball was given to Stuart Hampson. He did exactly what his captain wanted and got an early
wicket bowling Parkinson for nought. Big hitting Cummins was caught behind by Richie Benno, again off Hammo, a few overs later and we were in the driving seat.
A partnership between Cross and pro Ameer Khan flourished, but the boxer could have gone at any time, alas unfortunately he didn't. Cordingley replaced Hammo and soon
sent Cross and Farrington packing. Captain Cook inspired G to pick up another wicket, by diving to stop a ball with his feet and missing, and then with his hands
and missing. The bowler was on the verge of losing it until he picked up a wicket with his next ball, as The Salsa Man took a catch of Cordy. Allegedly it was all a cunning plan
from Cooky to bring about a wicket as young Makinson and Khan were rebuilding the innings. After a few lucky wafts Jeremy Clarkson caught the Leyland paid man off Atif, Hammo picked up
another and a par score of 173 was reached.
The Darwen response was in tatters in the first over as Qureshi hacked at one and was caught, next ball Kameron was adjudged LBW. Jackson and Cordingley then set
about repairing the innings and were coasting towards target until with the score on 53, Gary couldn't pick a googly and was bowled. Cordingley soon followed after
stupidly edging a cut shot for 34. JohnnyBoy and Emeroid started to build a partnership but then both lost the plot and played brain dead shots. With 6 wickets down
and defeat looking a formality, in steps Niall Burke. Little Burke played straight, some excellent shots and timed the ball superbly and managed to take us past
the 140 mark, ably supported by Benno, Hammo and the skipper. Hammo strangley defied the orders of the captain and tried to win the game with some good hits, but tried one
too many. Niall was out off the last ball of the game trying to plant Khan over the houses for a well made 40. A nice red-inker I think next time. We finshed 20 runs short
got in positions to win but just failed to grasp them.
Darwen 100% home record was kept in tact after an unlikely victory against Preston. After heavy rain on Sunday the start of the match was delayed and 42 over
contest was agreed on a wet wicket. Captain Cook continues to be the biggest sorry best tosser in the league as once again he won and decided to have a bowl.
As Preston passed 150 without loss it seemed the wrong decision as professional Billy Asad and some other slogger piled on the runs in the face of some inept bowling.
The dampness of the popping crease can be blamed some way for the barrage of half trackers and off line deliveries, but the Darwen ground fielding so good in recent
matches went down a level as the team were resigned to chasing a massive total. Beeser is back at work today if you need an appointment JohnnyBoy. Atif bowled
well picking up 2 wickets and was ably supported by Kameron and the returning all rounder PC EmeryPaper. The Preston innings closed on 205-5 and seemed a daunting
total, but with the ball skidding on to the bat nicely we were not out of the game.
The worst possible start for the hosts ensued as all-night-raver Faversham Clarke got one that tennis ball bounced and he was caught at point. The soon to be married
Gary Jackson fell next caught at slip for 8. Atif and Gareth then set about a repair job in the gloom at Birch Hall. After a partnership of 54, Quereshi was a caught on
the edge for 57, with 120 still needed. JohnnyBoy clonked a six but then fell as Darwen were still intent on victory. Paper joined G and played some great shots to keep up with
the 10 an over asking rate. After some lusty blows the Preston attack was under real pressure. However needing 17 from 8 deliveries a key moment of a six over the houses and a
4 meant Darwen were now favourites to claim a last over victory. With 7 needed from the last over 3 singles with everyone surprisingly on the edge meant Darwen
were easing to the total required. However Cordingley decided he was too old to keep running and dispatched one over deep midwicket for six to finish the game and red-ink on 99.
Cordingley and Emery put on the 95 to win with 2 balls to spare in an amazing and unlikely end to the game.
Next up is table topping Leyland - improved fielding and bowling is a must.
Darwen's away day blues surfaced again at sunny Carnforth. The captain set the tone for the day when packing his bag he decided not to bring a ball, the scorebook,
the beers and neglected to arrange drinks on a day the temperature registered 37C in the shade. On winning the toss the home side were asked to bat first on sodden,
slow, low wicket. At 33 for 0 of 4 overs it looked a bad decision as full bunger after full bunger went to the U15s size boundary. However the openers pulled it
back a little as The Yak took the first wicket with Hammo taking a catch at point. Yakub would have 2 more wickets but he overstepped twice.
Stuart Hampson, in his third game back after a seven year absence, strangely got choice of ends after travelling up with captain, but justified this by removing
opener Moore's middle stump. Hammo and Cordingley then bowled in tandem to drag the game back stifling the runs on a tricky wicket, and Stu picked up his second
wicket. The Yak came back to remove Relph and left the hosts at 94-4. The Carnforth skipper Tiny came and batted by numbers but slogged 48 before running himself
out. Professional Bailey sensibly anchored the innings before he was superbly yorked for 89 by the veteran Cordingley. Another run out and a wicket for G-man meant the
final total was 226 for 8. 170 would have been a more realistic total to chase.
Atif was his usual belligerent self disptaching anything short, but the innings was soon in tatters as Clarky and Gasman fell in quick succession. Cordingley G shaped wooden
spooning a catch to mid off after hanging around for a bit. JohnnyBoy was out second ball but got a reprieve via the square leg umpire for a no-ball 3 men behind
square. He also spooned one due to lack of pace in the wicket to debutant bowler Quinn. When Atif was caught on the edge for 65, any realistic hopes of victory were gone.
Hammo and Nathan both allegedly got unplayable deliveries, the fact that they came from a bloke on a Stenna Stairlift at 30mph cast some doubt on their theory.
Yakub played some good shots, but it was left to Niall Burke to give some positivity to the performance. Little Burke played some excellent shots all round the wicket
and got 30, but was the last man to fall with the score on 147.
A disappointing day against a similar standard team. Let's hope we bounceback against Preston on Monday
Darwen once again displayed their inability to play past 1700 as another early finish was the order of the day. But on this occasion the result was a remarkable
victory over the perennial title challengers of Netherfield. The Darwen skipper Andrew CorkDog won the toss and put the opposition into bat. Yakubu on his home
debut was first to strike removing Prime's off stump with a deceptive full bunger. South Australian professional Callum Ferguson and Brown steadied the ship
against some accurate bowling and no-balling from Captain Cook and The Yak. With the score on 38 for one, Yakub produced a superb delivery which the paid man had
no answer to as he was spectacularly caught one handed by the Jordanian. The weakened Netherlands batting line then produced the mother of all collapses in the face of
some fantastic Darwen bowling. Brown was looking well set before the Yak dug one in and Bling Bling Clarke to a good catch at square leg. Mickey Clarkson replaced
Brearley Cook at the Darren End and took his first First Team wicket trapping Girdhari plum in front. Mickey then decided to roll on the floor for a bit after
over celebrating his wicket and turning his ankle. At 42-4 with the Netherlands in trouble, veteran Gareth Cordingley replaced the hospital bound Clarkson with immediate
success taking the edge of Hill's bat easily pouched at first slip by ex-Rishton player CornDoggyDog. Troubled skipper Clement then needlessly ran himself out
attempting a second run as Student Clarke cunningly slowly ambled after the ball before unleashing a rocket throw. With the innings in tatters, The HammoDog, in his 2nd game back after a seven year
absence, took up the attack from the Blackburn End and promptly removed Little, Miller and Wilson in quick succession. The hard work put in by MC Hammer and
G Man before the game paid dividends and the dangerous Hadspin was the last man to fall bowled middle stump, as he trudged off the pitch with both pads on the
Netherfield innings closed unbelievably on 51. A tremendous effort on a pitch not offering a great deal but helped by some strange shot selections.
After only 20 overs unsurprisingly tea wasn't ready so it was a straight swap round and soon Atif and Clarkey were after the attack. After a couple of early
blows Atif had a mow at one from Clement and lost his middle peg. Clarke was adjudged LBW to Ferguson, but Gorro Jackson rolled back the years and played some
exquisite shots. Like a vintage wine Peter Pan Jackson gets better with age, but sadly his running between the wickets leaves a lot to be desired. An easy
one turned out to be his downfall as he was sat on his bat preferring only to deal in boundaries. The Cordingleys red-inked to see us home after 11 overs.
Who predicted that before the match? Even Paul Security Edwards was impressed. More of the same please next week away at Carnforth and home to Preston on Monday.
The dawn of a new era started at Vernon Road as the Darwen Under 17s attempted to take on the current league champions. Having been asked to bat first
on the coldest opening day for 20 years the opening pair of Clarke and newly-wed Atif took the attack to a seemingly toothless St.Annes attack and put
on 60 for the first wicket until Stephen Twist switched ends. The talented usual under-performer ripped the heart out of the Darwen batting order.
He bowled Atif, a couple of balls later Clarkey fell to gentle leg spin of the St.Aidans professional Mansoor Ahmed. The Lancashire League champion John
Cordingley was out second ball to Twist adjudged LBW to a ball that was just clipping off bail. The oldest player on the team Gareth Cordingley was next to go
for 10. Katie Price Clarke was looking good until another LBW for Twist as the collapse continued. Nathan The Lover Jackson decided two balls were enough.
Kameron Anwar played some beautiful shots and certainly looks to be at home in this environment before he was ridiculously given out off his pad because
he's a young lad. Hammo back after seven years played a couple of good shots but was deceived by the slow pace of Whitehead. Captain Cook and Micky Clarkson
could do little to stem the demise of the Darreners and Yakub on debut was left high and dry on 5 not out. 127 on that track with small boundaries was a
paltry score especially against a weak St.Annes attack.
Darwen's opening attack of two 16 year olds had the hosts reply in tatters as the impressive Yakub took Evans leg stump, Captain Cook decided to roll the ball rather than throw it but still got the run out.
Panic was setting in as a couple of near misses for Twist and local 'amateur' Atiq Uz-Zaman but they soon set about some wayward bowling to bludgeon under-cooked
attack at will. The game was over in time for the Rovers v Man U game.
This was a comparably poor St.Annes team that battered us in the end, needless to say there is plenty of room for improvement. But the enthusiasm and effort shown in
the field was excellent. Netherlands next let's get up for it!!
On Saturday 15th September the Northern League batting record was smashed by Atif Ashraf. He hit 17 sixes on his way to 208 not out - a fantastic innings by a fantastic player and an achievement that will surely not be matched for many years, well until he comes back next year!!
The match itself eventually peteered out into a draw as Darwen scored their record total of 310 off 45 overs.
Barrow were never in with a chance of winning as soon as professional Wanasinghe was triggered for 4 in the first over but managed to secure a losing draw, ably assisited by some poor Darwen fielding and bowling. With nothing on the line the performance level dipped as thoughts seemed to turn to Keith's farwell party, Cooky in particular was in no mood to injure his drinking hand. On the other hand an aggressive Andrew Mercer turned up, cheered on by his Kiwi friend, he was steaming in and even seen to offer advice to debutant Stu Hammo. He got a deserved 4 wickets but it was not enough to force victory.
So for the final time Keith Semple walked off the hallowed Birch Hall turf to a standing ovation. Those lucky enough to have played in the same team will all say it has been a privilege and a pleasure. But we all wish him well and will be waiting for the holiday invites to the BVI!!
Rumour has it Big Jeff is also retiring, this was backed up by him giving away his kit at the end of the game, but seeing that he borrows everything this retirement may be premature as the only thing he did get rid of was his box to PC Emery! Let's hope he is back for a few more years yet.
A third place finish after having 7 games rained off is an excellent achievement to go along with the 2020 trophy.
On a day when 15 points was a must Keith lost the toss and we were asked to bowl first - not what we wanted. Even more problems ensued when the opening pair of Smit and Coultas decided to smack the Darwen attack to all parts, until the Fleetwood pro decided to hit one into his nose! Semple removed the big hitting Coultas for 58, before the returning Smit and Ellis pushed for a massive total. Cordingley slower delivery eventually accounted for Smit bowling him for 85 and Ellis for 36, before Mercer and Semple dragged the game back with some good death bowling on a terrific batting wicket. Merse and Semo both taking 3 wickets and restricting Fleetwood to 241 for 9.
The Darwen reply faltered early as Clarkey fell LBW, before Bob and Atif set off in their usually style of bashing the lacklustre attack. When Coultas slow bowling accounted for Keith on 28, it was left to Cordingley and Ashraf to put on 130 for the next wicket and guide the Towers home with 10 overs to spare. Run machine Atif finishing on 140 not out and Gareth red-inking on 54. But the celebration of a good victory was marred by the result from Morecambe as Chorley surrendered without a fight which means their lead is 17 points and they are out of reach. Rumour has it all of the Chorley batsmen shouldered arms! This means Morecambe may well win the league having not played against us and having played 3 games more.
The final game of the season is at home to Barrow - let's hope we send Keith Fitzpatrick Semple home in style!
It was a do-or-die affair at Parkside on Saturday as third met fourth, both needing victory to stand any chance of catching leaders St.Annes. Skipper Semple won the toss and decided to bat first on a green coloured but good batting pitch. A solid platform was set by Atif and Clarkey of 45 runs before the latter snicked one behind. This brought in Semo, who was cruelly denied a century last week by PC Paper, but set out just as he had finished last weeks game in magnificent form. In fact the only thing he missed all day was the junction on the motorway, having arrived at Kendal via Penrith 30 minutes late but obviously still 10 minutes before Big Jeff! Semple and Ashraf blasted the home attack to all parts as they somewhat surprisingly decided to 'dig it in' for most of the afternoon with all the fielders on the boundary. Atif was in superb touch and eventually red-inked on 144, while Keith decided to get out off the next to last ball much to the annoyance of the in coming batsmen. With a score off 279-2 after 50 overs it was fair to say the momentum was in Darwen's favour.
The home teams reply was positive and with attacking fields and quick a outfield the ball was always likely to fly to the boundary with any decent contact. Wickets were the order of the day but were in short supply until Goldenarm Hacking removed the dangerous Walmsley. The substitute professional Williams managed to club a few runs but fell to a well disguised slower delivery from Cordingley. The runs were still flowing and around 9 an over was needed, but the field was in in an attempt to get wickets. Enter man of the moment Quereshi and leading French expert Jordan Clarke. They teamed up to take 4 wickets, three stumped and one caught, and with a catch for strike bowler Mercer in the deep, Atif claimed his fifth wicket to go with his undefeated 144, a fantastic effort. Darwen tried every trick in the book to keep the home team going for the mammoth total in an attempt for more wickets, including feeding the Cumbrian batsmen with some fodder, the less experienced panicking members of the team will no doubt store away the lesson for the future as it meant Netherfield kept going for the total. With 6 wickets down and requiring 30 off 13 balls they decided it was not worth the risk, eventually closing on 250-7.
As the news filtered through of an unlikely Chorley victory against St.Annes and Morecambe taking top spot, 14 points clear, thoughts quickly moved to next Saturday's home game against Fleetwood, another must win game if the title is to come back to its rightful home.
After sitting out Saturday and seeing St.Annes take a 16 point lead in the title race, it was back to business on Monday with a local derby against Chorley. Preparation for the game was marred by some of the team being
taken ill during the day and night before the game. Some conspiracy theorists claimed that the worst Italian meal ever at Bobby's birthday was to
blame, others that Merse's barbequeing techniques of cremating sausages may
have compounded the fact, whilst a more realistic option of copious amounts
of ale and a combination of the above was closer to the truth.
Chorley won the toss and decided to bat first on a wicket that had plenty
to offer for both bat and ball, Mercer was back to his consistent best and
managed to pick up two wickets, whilst the from the other end it was a bit
of a toil until an inspired piece of captaincy from the suffering leader
Semple, as he threw the ball to PC EmeryPaper. As Chunder Lowe shook his
head on his long journey to fine leg, Coppa Emery removed the not-so-very
professional Stern John with his second delivery taking his leg stump. A
series of loopy full bungers and floaty spot-on line and length deliveries
followed from the all-rounder and soon accounted for Holdsworth plum in
front. A good partnership from Dhar, dropped on 0 and 28, and skipper
Catterall pushed the total to 130 before Dhar was caught by Mulla of the
bowling of Cordingley. Another wicket for Mercer, one each for Keith and
Cooky, and 2 run outs meant that Chorley finished on 193. A good total which
was aided by some poor fielding and some lets-go-and-see-Beeser aims at the
stumps.
The Darwen reply began quickly as Atif hit 16 off his first over before was
harshly adjudged LBW to Eastham. Semple came to the crease and although not
feeling too well, looked to be in great touch. The Patterman Clarke was
caught behind off the pushy John, before a stand of 100 between Cordingley
and Semple pushed the Towers to victory. Some beautifully crafted and not
at all ugly batsmenship ensued as they managed to keep out the best
professional in the league, who is a fine example and role model to the
youthful Chorley team and has somewhat suprisingly only managed to guide them to last place. When
Cordingley fell for 42 it was left to the in-form cider drinker Emery to
guide the team to victory with some lusty blows and deny Keith a much
deserved century in the process.
With 3 games to go and currently 13 points behind St.Annes we face a make
or break game with Netherlands on Saturday. Both teams needing to secure
maximum points in their bid to overturn the league leaders.
In front of Preston's biggest crowd for 50 years, Darwen managed to secure 12 points against a much improved side who have secured some great results of late on their own patch. Having won the toss Semo decided to insert the opposition, a decision that looked slightly flawed when they managed to reach 51 without loss on a pitch that made Birch Hall look like the WACA. Bavla and Mann ran well between the wickets until the league's form player Hacking tricked Mann with a long hop and Slowboat took a great catch at midwicket. Enter the Preston paid man Bilal Asad, who after a couple of cracking drives decided to try and break Cordingley's fingers at square leg with a thundering pull, but it was to no avail as has sent packing for 14 off the bowling of Atif. Cordingley removed Bavla plum LBW and Ashraf picked up another when Lucky was caught by Granty for 2. The game appeared to be back in our favour but some resistance from McDonald and Shah meant they slowly moved closer to 150 mark until off-spinner Semple in tandem with Bungle Hacking manged to polish them off for 142. Hacking again proving that bowling straight and having a rapport with the officials is the key to getting LBW decisions, especially when one of the victims was 6 yards down the track.
This was a bowling and fielding performance that improved throughout the game except for a moment of madness from the notorious Gaymers Emery Paper. Not content with impersonating Mick Jagger last week, he was at it again, this time having been watching his favourite film the previous evening, he proceeded to do a Billy Elliot in front of a disbelieving umpire and team mates. Instead of backing up a powerful throw from Atif he pranced out of the way of the ball so as not to obscure the umpires view!!
The run chase to keep us in contention for the title could hardly have started much worse as Ashraf, Clarke and Cordingley all fell cheaply. Semple and Lowe tried to repair the damage but with the score on 50 Keith was dismissed which brought Paper to the crease. A superb match winning partnership ensued between the close friends as they chased down the Preston total. Great running between the wickets and shot selection was fantastic to watch in the face of some good Preston bowling. Emery eventually ran out of puff having scored an excellent career best 36, which brought Big Jeff to the crease. The rain began to fall from nowhere and there was still 25 to win, but some great hitting meant we took the points with 5 balls to spare. The much improved Lowe finshed the job and ended up 48 not out, whilst Hacking blasted 20.
This now leaves us 1 point behind the leaders St.Annes and Netherlands, who both have a game in hand. Lancaster at home on Saturday and there is no margin for error.
Not for the first time this season a Darwen match was victim of the on-going conspiracy to ensure we play at least 5 games less than everyone else. The rain fell at Morecambe much to the pleasure of the home team who were able to play cards with a great deal of enthusiasm whilst the umpire tried in vain to make the outfield playable.
On Sunday there was actually a first team game at Birch Hall and what a game it was as the home team managed to secure 15 points against title challenging St.Annes. Having been asked to bat first by ex-Darwen junior Duncan Whalley, we stuttered and stumbled to 107 All Out on a difficult pitch thanks in the main to Magners Emery who played a match-winning innings of 29, ably supported by the nimble footed Mark Bennett, and Mr.Angry himself Nathan Carr. They took the total past the 100 mark when 85 looked about the best we could muster. Deputising Rishton professional Saeed Anwar Junior took 7 wickets in helpful conditions.
Mystic Lowe said we had enough at half time and would win by 6 runs, he wasn't far wrong as the game ebbed abd flowed to its conclusion. Hacking removed the dangerous Dosser first ball of the innings and the belief spread through the team, but this belief was beginning to drain away as Anwar Jr and Cotton were steadily and luckily pushing the score along. They got to 43 when a masterstroke in captaincy saw The HOF Cook replaced by Ashraf and Cotton was bowled. The vital wicket of Anwar, again bowled by Atif, sent shockwaves through the Seasiders camp. When Pies Cotton fell to Semple for nought it was 55 for 4 and game on. The immovable Austin was at the other end but in danger of running out of partners.
Austin frustration told as he smacked an Ashraf delivery at Paper, who decided he was still hungry and tried to eat the ball. Not a wise move as with a busted lip and bruised pride he made his way to the sidelines for a pint whilst the rest of his team carried on the fight. A run out chance went begging - had the chance for victory gone?
Semple then removed Musgrave and at drinks lost the plot, instructing Cordingley to warm up and bowl from the Blackburn End for the first time in 20 years! The change immediately paid dividends as Bradley was bowled then Whalley was caught behind by Benny. When Dowling and Whitehead fell in quick succession the points seemed to heading to Birch Hall but Austin was still there blocking and swiping. Lowe caught Austin on the edge then proceeded to fall over the boundary. With 16 to win and victory in sight Ashraf bowled Bully and the celebrations could begin.
A great result which still keeps us up with the leaders and onto Preston next Saturday
For those not able to see it Cooky took one of the all time great catches with his right hand! Its true! As Kevin Howarth mistimed a clip to mid on the cries of 'Dive Cooky' reverberated round the Shap lane ground more in hope than anticipation. But dive he did (no he didn't trip and fall as some mentioned) a full length dive to cling on to a chance just of the ground with his wrong hand! The teams reaction said it all as Cook was mobbed from all corners of the ground with TFC Lowe riding him piggy back style in elation.
The game itself saw Darwen return to winning ways and the kind of performance they are capable of and must produce every week if the title is to be a possibility. Excellent fielding, accurate bowling and sensible batting was on show in abundance. Keith semple BA Hons. won the toss and decided to field first in an reduced over game (42). He proceeded to reel off 13 overs for 11 to stiffle to dangerous Kendal top order. Man of the moment Cook removed Ullah as usual with a faster long hop, and Cordingley then claimed the big three of Hunte, Haworth and Thornton. Some excellent clonking from the hosts captain, professional and Simm ensured Kendal got a competitive total by making the mosts of the under 15 leg side boundaries.
Professional Ashraf returned to form with a beautifully constructed 95 not out as firstly he and Chris 'Reach for the Lasers' Clarke set up the victory by putting on 80 for the first wicket before they had a mix up, not for the first time, and CJ was run out for 27.
Semple made sure he wasn't going to get out and help guide the Towers to the total with 2 overs to spare. A victory and the world seems a better place.
After 4 weeks without a league game the weather again meant no play could be had at Birch Hall against the vastly improved Leyland outfit and as a consequence we slipped way off the pace as far as a title challenge goes. This now means that Darwen have had 4 games abandoned completely and others rain affected. If you compare this to the rest of the league who have only missed one or two games maximum, you can see why it is much harder for the more southern based teams to win the league in a wet summer such as this.
After a month of inactivity we eventually got changed and competed in a game of cricket! Without Hacking and Mercer, the latter spotted in B&Q on Sunday the with a thumb print on his head, it was always going to be a difficult task to beat the current league leaders on their own patch. But it was once again the batsmen that failed to put a decent total on the board. On a poor pitch (if it had been at Darwen we would have been reported to the league) Darwen very steadily got to 60 for 0 off 23 overs before the league biggest reviser and party-goer Chris Clarke fell. This then sparked one of the all time batting collapses, as first Semple fell to off-spinner Simm and next ball having waited 4 weeks to bat Cordingley was on his way back to the pavilion. Next over Cheeky Vimto Lowe played a ball onto his leg then instead of knocking it away watched it hit the off stump - worse was to follow as Magners Emery fell first ball copying off his close friend Lowe by playing on. When Ashraf fell for 49 the disaster was complete until Yazoo Patel played a useful cameo with all-rounder Cook, who bludgeoned a boundary in front of square, and then Gregor Lawrenson scored his first runs ever!
A sorry performance of 121 appeared to be 30 runs behind the required amount
The bowlers put up a spirited fight but a combination of missed chances, slow fielding and experienced batting meant that Kendal limped across the line with an over to spare.
Three cup competitions - three first round losses - so its back to the league and time to turn things round with another 500 mile trip to Kendal and a chance to redress the balance.
Having been asked to bat first Darwen could only muster a below par 162 for 9 which was 20 runs below what was required at Broadwater. On an unpredictable pitch, offset with a fast outfield, and against some steady bowling Darwen failed to take the initiative and allowed Smit and 3-Dog-Clinning to bowl too many overs under without any pressure. When the attempt to put some impetus into the innings the result unfortuantely fell short of what was required but at least gave the bowlers something to bowl at.
When Mercer removed Fleetwood professional Smit early on, the expectation for victory grew, however Coultas' policy of miss-smash-miss paid dividends as he reached 54. A switch of ends for experienced campaigner Hacking brought about a change in fortune as he decimated the home side batting card with 5 wickets. With a couple moments of good fortune the result may have been different, but Fleetwood limped over the line and Darwen slumped to their first league loss of 2007.
On Saturday sees league leaders Netherlands come to Birch Hall and a clash of the top two, with Darwen hoping for an improved batting performance.
Darwen stuttered in the race for the Northern League title at Lancaster. The home team elected to bat first and managed to score 209-9 in their alloted 50 overs. Lancaster pro Jannisar Khan top scoring with a half century to ensure a competitive but gettable target. Andrew Mercer was the pick of the Darwen bowlers taking 3 wickets.
Darwen's innings began in fine style with Atif Ashraf and Gary Jackson forming a solid base to build on, but when Ashraf was out for 28 and Keith Semple dubiously given out next ball the chase was always in the balance. Gareth Cordingley and Jackson took the score up to 100 before Cordingley fell for 34. Unfortunately the innings then petered out to a paltry 169-9 and a losing draw, not before the evergreen Jackson had passed 50. However other results meant that Darwen have gone top of the Northern League but still lost valuable ground to the chasing pack.
The opportunity to strengthen our league position was taken away by the poor weather at Birch Hall. Having been inserted by our local rivals Chorley, our innings closed on 183-5 after 45 overs. Skipper Keith Semple returned to his majestic best scoring 85 not out , helped along the way by Cordingley, Lowe and the 'finisher' Yasim Patel.
Rain during the tea interval and subsequent showers meant that Chorley needed 183 from 23 overs, ridiculous rules that need sorting as they were never in with a chance of reaching the target. They eventually closed on 59-3 with wickets for the spin twins of Ashraf and Semple.
While a 15 point victory for us slipped by, Kendal moved into top spot by virtue of one against Netherfield. A tricky fixture at Lancaster awaits us for Saturday.
Darwen bounced backin style following the disappointments of last weekend with an eventually comfortable victory over Preston at Birch Hall. After asking Preston to bat first Darwen were quick out of the blocks as Mercer bowled Patel for 3 in the 3rd over. Wickets then fell steadily with only Asad Preston's paid man looking dangerous. Wickets for Cook and Cordingley and 2 excellent direct hit run outs from Ashraf and Mercer meant Preston's hopes of posting an imposing 1st innings total faded. When Ashraf was brought into the attack he quickly removed Asad for 58 and the Preston innings fizzled out to a dissapointing 118 all out, Mercer, the most successful bowler, took 3 for 26 from his 12 overs by removing the visually impaired tail.
Darwens reply began well before Ashraf and Semple fell in the same over. Clarke and Cordingley steadied the ship and when Clarke unluckily fell for a well crafted 28 victory was insight. The loss of the in form Lowe needlessly running himself out and Emery's failure to follow team plans caused a few jitters but Cordingley and Yas Patel guided the Birch Hall men Home. Cordingley continuing his excellent start to the season with 59 not out.
An inept fielding display led to vital points being lost in a tough game at Vernon Road. After being asked to bowl first the St.Annes openers Austin and Darlington went after the bowling and enjoyed some extraordinary good luck through dropped catches, playing and missing on numerous occassions and chipping the ball just in front of the lethargic fielders. Andrew 'The Jibber' Cook eventually made the breakthrough removing Austin for a powerful 52. Darwen mounted the usual comeback to stay well in the game but St.Annes managed to close on 220-6, a gettable target but one which was 40 runs more than they merited due to the midweek-like fielding.
The reply began well with pro Ashraf and 'Peter Pan' Jackson building a useful stand until Atif fell for 38. Jackson continued to mix it with fast bowler Harwood but he eventually fell to Dowling. Wickets tumbled at regular intervals until Yazoo Patel joined Cordingley. The pair managed to push the score to respectability but victory was out of reach. Cordingley 71 and Patel 37 both fell near the end in a search for a further bonus point which eventually eluded the Darreners.
Last years Lancashire Cup finalists fell at the first hurdle as we were massacred at Farnworth. We had no answer to the dibbly-dobbly bowlers on under prepared horror pitch and could only muster 61, half of these scored by the Chris 'The Walker' Lowe. Farnworth slowly got to the total and marched on into the next round, whilst the WAGS celebrated more free Sundays.
Preston and Chorley at home and Saturday and Monday - we must return to winning ways.
Morecambe came with their usual body language, on seeing a wicket that might not be straight up and down, to give the home team a boost as Semple inserted the oppostion. However at 110 for 1 with local lad Goyal and new professional Woetsee cruising along, a score of in excess of 250 looked on the cards, until a moment of brilliance / fortune occurred as Cordingley ran out the South African by deflecting the ball onto the stumps. The champions then suffered the anticipated collapse and were soon 150 for 7. But a superb innings from the opener Goyal ended with him unbeaten on 134 and a final score of 215.
Unfortunately soon after the tea interval the heavens opened and suddenly after a lengthy rain delay Darwen had lost 16 overs but still had to get the same target!! Ashraf started well but fell for 26 but the chase was to no avail as the rain came and a halt was called to proceedings at 35-1, meaning 4 points each.
Most of the other teams managed a proper result as usual on the coast but we are still clear of the now closing chasing pack.
A Darwen team minus a few household names made the short National Knockout journey to Bradshaw on Sunday only for the weather to intervene yet again. As soon as the decision for a bowl out was made, the outcome and more legendary tales were ensured. Bradshaw were the winners 4-2 as only Cook and Jackson found the target. Rumour has it Gary bowled his slower delivery and the bails didn't fall off, whilst captain Semple forgot to use a run-up and bowled from the coil!!
The excellent start to the season continued with a convincing win against the league newcomers. Having put the visitors into bat consistent bowling from Semple and Mercer soon had them on the back foot at 27-4 as some of their top order looked a bit out of their depth, but the lower order managed to salvage the score to 112 with Cordingley finishing with 4 wickets in an inspired spell. Mercer, the best amatuer bowler in the league picked up 3.
During the tea interval a heavy shower led to a reduction in overs for the home side, but when play eventually started in perfect conditions Darwen coasted to victory with the run-machine Ashraf sensibly guiding the team home with 63 not out, ably supported by Chris Lowe (the red-inker) who looked in great touch and seems to be showing the form he has promised for many years.
This result means that we are now 5 points clear at this early stage and will be looking to build on this when the current league champions and good friends from Morecambe are the visitors at Birch Hall on Saturday.
Darwen continued thier excellent start to the season with a hard fought 9 point winning draw away at Stanley Park. After losing the toss and being asked to bat Darwen lost Clarke early. This brought together Atif Ashraf and Keith Semple who batted superbly and when Semple was removed for 60 the Birch Hall men were guaranteed a competive total. Ashraf went onto complete a memorable century before falling for 130. The Darwen innings finished on 239 for 3.
Blackpool got off to a brisk start and soon passed 50 for no loss, but the introduction of Ashraf into the attack changing things. He removed opener Newton and the seasiders paid man Kresuch in quick succession. Opener Boucher batted well and passed 100 but when he was bowled by Mercer for 114 Blackpool's slim hopes of victory ended. Their innings closed on 222 for 7 with Ashraf completing a memorable day and figures of 5 for 88 off his 16 overs.
Darwen made in two wins out of two on Saturday at Birch Hall. After winning the toss captain Keith Semple asked a dangerous Kendal side to bat first. The Kendal openers looked in good touch before Ikram Ullah fresh from a century
last week smashed an Andrew Cook delivery to square leg where Chris Lowe took a sharp catch. The prolific Terry Hunte got off the mark first ball with a huge six, but was soon on his way after edging an excellent delivery
from Andrew Mercer to young wicket keeper Jordan Clarke who took an impressive catch. Kendal then steadily lost wickets and the experienced Jeff Hacking showed his class by ripping out the Kendal middle order and
finishing with the fine figures of 5 wickets for just 10 runs.
Darwen's reply began with Chris Clarke being run out for the second week running and skipper Keith Semple being caught behind off Kendal's professional Graeme Aldridge as they looked in trouble at 10 for 2. A quick fire 20 from Gareth Cordingley and a valuble knock from Chris Lowe ably supporting Atif Ashraf meant Darwen coasted to victory, Ashraf finishing
unbeaten on 51.
The new season started in the best possible way at Fox Lane, Leyland. Despite the build up to the game being marred by having no professional and being unable to get any sub professionals, the amateurs in the ranks proved that they can still play and managed to secure 12 points at the newly formed Leyland Cricket Club.
New captain Keith Semple won the toss and inserted the opposition on a decent looking track and a score of 200 plus looked on the cards as the Leyland professional Ameer Khan hit his way to 70. but he received little support other than from the two opening batsmen. Off spinner Semple picked up 4 wickets and there were 2 for Mercer and Cordingley, 1 for Hacking and golden arm Emery picked up the prize scalp of Khan off his second delivery.
Chasing 160 for victory there was some excellent batting from Lowe and Clarke who dispatched the Leyland attack to all parts before Lowe was hit by a sniper from the crowd and had to retire hurt much to the amusement of his team mates. Clarke continued to play some fine shots but lost Semple for 15, before he decided to try and run out his partner Cordingley by hitting it straight to an excellent fielder and hurtling down the track, unfortunately he was on his way for a quality 66. Cordingley saw the lads home with 40 not out and the professional-less Darwen picked up a well deserved 12 points.
Davies, known to his team-mates as 'CD' bowled superbly to take the wickets of four of the first five Preston batsmen while danger-man Aziz Shaheen was run out by Greg Lawrenson after making the game's highest score of 29.
Lawrenson's slow left arm spin then continued the Darwen stranglehold. Lawrenson took 4 for 17 in his eight overs and Davies returned to the attack to bag the wicket of Roger Kaye as Preston fell short of their modest target.
Earlier Darwen had struggled on a stodgy, slow-paced pitch after Preston's groundstaff had worked wonders to get the ground fit for play. Preston captain Johnny Winter invited Darwen to bat after winning the toss.
Only three Darwen players reached double figures with Simon Painter top-scoring with 17. Fellow veteran David Bonner made a valuable 16 late in the innings while Nathan Jackson made 11.
Dipesh Patel was the most successful Preston bowler with impressive figures of 4 for 16.
The victory was a family affair for Darwen captain Gary Jackson, joined in the side by sons Scott and Nathan while Christian Davies' son Alex was also a member of the victorious side.
Though the conditions proved to be the winner and make batting a difficult task, the excellent bowling and fielding of both sides reflected well on the standard of second XI cricket in the Northern Premier League and a good-sized crowd enjoyed their afternoon.
SCOREBOARD:
Second Division Cup Final
Preston v Darwen at West Cliff
Toss won by Preston
Innings of Darwen:
S Jackson c M Patel b Kaye 8; N Jackson b Javed Hussain 11; A Davies c M Patel b Shaheen 1; S Painter c Winter b D Patel 17; M Bennett (WK) c M Patel b D Patel 9; G Ainslie run out 2; G Jackson (Capt) lbw Javed Hussain 9; A Brown c Kaye b D Patel 0; D Bonner c Shaheen b D Patel 16; C Davies b Starkie 4; G Lawrenson not out 2; Extras 13; Total 92 (38.4 overs)
Bowling: Javed Hussain 6-0-18-2; Ughradar 5-0-8-0; Kaye 8-2-17-1; Shaheen 5-2-12-1; D Patel 8-1-16-4; Starkie 6.4-1-17-1.
Innings of Preston:
A Shaheen run out 29; F Ughradar c Bennett b C Davies 2; B Donaldson c&b C Davies 2; Javed Hussain lbw C Davies 4; J Winter (Capt) c&b C Davies 7; M Jefferies b Lawrenson 1; R Cairns (WK) b Lawrenson 11; M Patel c Bennett b Lawrenson 2; D Patel b Lawrenson 0; R Kaye c N Jackson b C Davies 7; A Starkie not out 1; Extras 4; Total 70 (34 overs)
Bowling: N Jackson 5-0-13-0; Bonner 8-4-11-0; C Davies 7-2-20-5; Lawrenson 8-2-17-4; Ainslie 6-0-8-0.
Darwen won by 22 runs
On a green wicket we asked Barrow to bat first and after 10 overs they had reached 51 without loss. The first wicket fell at 80 after 18 overs and some 32 overs later they had doubled their score to 160 in losing their last nine wickets.
We failed to hit the right areas with our bowling in the early part of there innings and generally the fielding was indifferent. The wickets were shared between Christian Davies (4) Nail Burke (2) and David Bonner(2).Christian Davies taking his 26 wicket of the season( pushing cookie for a first x1 debut.
We should have bowled them out for less but even 160 was a target we should have achieved. However after 15 overs we had 6 of our batsmen back in the pavilion , not really due to good bowling but bad batting. Even though we had 35 over still to bat it was going to be a tall order to reach their total and we finally were all out for 111 in 28.4 overs, still 21 to bat and 50 short. A.Brown 29, S.Painter 20and M.Grant 19 were top scores
We have to start batting the full allocation of overs and realise that shot selection, partnerships and an awareness of what we have to achieve in the time that we have allocated is important. We must play the ball each ball on it merit, it was like watching 20/20 when we batted.
We are a capable side and can beat any side in the league but we have to do better.
When a Plan Doesn’t Come Together
Towers 237-9
Walton-le-Dale 118 ao
The Towers arrived at a dreary-looking Sandy Lane with a simple strategy: insert our opponents into bat, bowl em out quicksticks, knock em off and get up to
Birch Hall to watch the fosts dispatch Blackpuddle on the march to Readers Cup glory. What followed was probably the longest game of cricket ever seen on LD
. In fact, when the mob of footballers turned up to put down jumpers for goalposts on the square at 18.00, they were stunned to see the Towers still toiling
for victory. It should have been oh so different.
One must comment on the pre-match preparations of some players: Non-league footballer Fraddy turned up clutching a very healthy Big Mac meal and Mars came
direct from the casino with not a pot to p#ss in. Apparently he walked around for a while with a pocket full of chips and is still trying to get the smell
of salt and vinegar out of his slacks. Boom boom
For the first time this season we lost the toss. Despite his eagerness to watch the charity shield and Walton’s poor form with the bat of late, their captain
clearly thought the still-wet track was ropey and inserted the hosts. Thompson’s tongue-in-cheek assertion that it was a ‘Batters Paradise’ was subsequently proven correct as opener Fraddy started whacking it all over the place from the off before departing for 34. Badger Douglas entered the fray and clonked a 50 off 25 balls before surrendering his wicket to a frighteningly bad shot. At one point, it was looking like a declaration at 200 off 25 overs, but the rate started to drop as the attack found their line and Zac Whalley fell taking a drag of a Lambert and Butler. In at 5 came the skipper, premier red-inker and ‘man without an average’. As usual he played the Ron Burgundy role finishing on 63no helping the young lads develop their technique and confidence on a good batting track. Of particular note, Sam Painter and Luke McKenna played some good strokes, Tim Drugan rediscovered some form with an old Ingham bat out of Beezers garage and Buffet attempted to create his own weather system wafting away like a man possessed. After an afternoon of chase, hide and seek, the innings closed on 237 after 4 hourszzzzzzzz.
Walton fielded a young side and, naively, the Towers thought they could skittle them for a low score. The opening salvo of Wingnut and Buffet bowled with
aggression and ended with a wicket apiece after 18 overs. It was likely this game was going all the way, even though our opponents never looked like
touching our score.
A nervous young batsman was having a terrible time and was lucky to still be at the crease. After a ‘swing and a miss’, he muttered to the wicket keeper Fraddster, “Well, I expect you've seen worse players.”
An eerie silence followed....
First slip Zac then chirped up “he said I expect you've seen worse players Danny.”
The gloveman eventually responded “I heard him the first time. I was just trying to think.”
Streyt up. Gospel that – sledging in the Sunday league, never seen.
Having bowled out the strike attack, this game was to be won by the first and second changers:
The Tim Drugan – bowled a bit of tripe and plenty of wides, but lordy, when he hit the spot, timber did fall. 3-fer for Tim who is playing centre-half for Darwen FC this season.
Ryan McKenna – ever improving left-armer who delivers the ball from high and swings it a mile. Another excellent spell culminating in a wicket of the highest order after the skip set the trap at deep square.
Sam Painter – the man without a genre. Not sure whether it is spin, medium pace, leggers or what, but puts one in mind of Derek Underwood. Finished with 3 well deserved wickets.
Reece Davies – now acquired a whole host of additional nicknames after a grunty spell of 5 overs. Kicking in from the bottom of Cravens Brow, ‘Venus’ bowled aggressively and picked up a wicket.
At around 9.30 the game was all over with our guests finishing on 118. After being denied a shower by some crankpot soaking my towel we locked up LD’s maximum security compound and got back to the Birch 10 minutes after the fosts had finished. Best laid plans and all that…
Towers Taste Defeat at Whittingham
Whittingham & Goosnargh 150ao
Towers 95ao
The Sunday XI juggernaut hit the buffers at Guild Park, going down to a 55 run defeat. Whilst it was disappointing to lose, a young and inexperienced
side competed well against a strong Whittingham and Goosnargh team.
Fielding 8 teams over a weekend pushed the cricket committee to the edge and a full eleven was only secured at 11.30am on the Sunday morning. Preceding
this was a loya jirga in the clubhouse on Saturday evening, with everyone running through their mobiles shouting random names of people who may be
persuaded to don some creams. Several promising lines of enquiry came to nothing – Lord Ronnie of Naireyshire could not be contacted, Johnny Wad was at
organ practice, Raf Mogra was washing his hair, Pratty was umpiring…and then a flash of inspiration from CD…Shapsy! Like MacArthur’s Island Hopping strategy,
if we could get Stuart to play, we could unlock Colin Crawford, Simon Mercer, Grogy Bear and the rest. Alas, it was not be to be and by Sunday morning the
call went out to non-cricketers Neil ‘Sally’ Brown and Chris ‘Bear’ Lowe, who jumped at the chance to represent their town. A raid on the garages of several
players cobbled together some respectable kit for the newbies, with some emergency aid kindly donated by Tiger on the services car park.
The ground was in a beautiful setting and a real arboriculturalist’s dream with Oaks, Maples, Chestnuts, Scots Pines, Hornbeams and Elms gently swaying in
the light breeze. After a harrowing day with Horsy in the seconds the day before, skipper Thompson was eager to have a restful afternoon. The track was
immaculate, flat as pancake and of even colour…it was Astroturf. So it was on with the trainers and, oh my lord, I have not seen sights like that on a
cricket field since the midweek league down at Plessy. Watching Tim Drugan slide around in his dainty white plimsolls and Shapsy bowling in hiking boots
was a pleasure to behold.
The Whittingham innings got off to a brisk start, but tidy and aggressive bowling from Tim and Buffet put the brakes on. Shap and Ryan McKenna continued
the good work and managed to restrict the flow of runs on a large pitch, the former getting straight back into the rhythm with his economical action.
Youngster, Mutib ‘Tim’ Ali, was introduced with his mesmeric leg spin (one turned both ways in a single delivery) and Bear bowled five good overs of hybrid
off-spin/slow/medium. The out fielding was generally ok, but we seemed incapable of keeping the ball up and off the moist turf, which meant it looked more
like a lump of coal than a Readers by the end of the innings.
Our umpire for the day was Treasurer Geoff Thompson, and it seems that old habits die hard for him. In all my days playing cricket, I have never seen an
umpire go up in appeal with the bowler when giving a decision (trigger #1) and by the time he was scurrying from square leg to back up a throw from the
covers, I was in stitches. That said, he had a good afternoon and had the pleasure of watching his little lad Buffet get 6 wickets with some excellent pace
bowling.
Due to injuries and the skippers nasty eye infection, the order was re-hashed for the Towers reply. Experienced campaigner Darius ‘Linda’ Ainslie opened
with cricket novice Brownie. After sizing up the opening attack, Brownie surprised us all with a clinical hack through the covers for 4. Alas, that was to
be his peak, being bowled the next over. Wickets started to fall at a steady rate and no batter managed to establish themselves on a benign track. Without
being too critical of the boys, footwork and forward movement were lacking and most were bowled through the garden gate stepping back. The illness-stricken
Mars briefly threatened, Buffet clonked a massive straight six to nourish the travelling support and the one-eyed skipper nudged and nurdled his way to
38no, but when the last man Ryan nicked one to the keeper, it was all over. A proud record was broken, but there were some positives and we shall be looking
to bounce back next week against Walton-le-Dale.
Young Guns Show Their Mettle at LD
Towers 215-7
Whittle-le-Woods 170 ao
A very youthful Sunday XI took on an experienced Whittle side at the deputy home of cricket, Lower Darwen. After putting the Burco on, ‘de-mucking’ the
outfield and sizing up the opposition, it was time for the toss. In light of recent muttering about ‘tactical inflexibility’ and ‘one-dimensional captaincy’,
the skipper won a 5th straight toss and decided to bat first, against his better judgement.
The wisdom of this decision was soon in question as openers Tiger and Reece were put under the cosh by a combination of aggressive bowling and
inconsistent bounce. At 40-5, Thompson had to put down the Telegraph at page 10 and try to restore some order to proceedings. After a nervy opening
trying to pick the ball out of a brown garage door, he began to tear the Whittle attack to pieces and along with the impervious Reece, took the score to 180
before the Pocket Dynamo was cruelly run out for 64 after a bad call from his experienced partner. It was left to Johnny Thompson to strike a few lusty
blows (eyes shut) to take the score on to 215 at the close of our 45 overs.
The teas were expertly delivered by national treasure Raymondo Rushton and we were presented with an individual plate of butties, salad and pastries.
On the plus side the spicy vegetable slice and sausage roll were excellent, however it was felt the ham and beef sandwiches were a little dry and wanting
of some salad cream, coleslaw or English mustard. Nevertheless we devoured them and stirred our pots of tea with a broom handle as LD was all out of spoons.
Whittle are known as a handy batting side and we were defending a short boundary, so opted for an experienced opening attack of Buffet and the returning
Tim Drugan. Both bowled with controlled aggression and reduced the opposition to 22-2. After that, the Towers turned the screw, making the batters work for
every run. The score nudged onto 70-2 before the excellent Ryan McKenna and Sam Painter took 6 wickets between them from the Blackburn end. At the Darwen end,
Chris Crompton made his senior debut and like all of Darwen’s young players, showed maturity beyond his years. He pouched a great steepling catch at
midwicket to dismiss the dangerous Faroukh, then took a wicket in his second over, courtesy of a Mick Anderson catch. The fired up Reece finished off the
innings with a neat catch by Luke McKenna who barely dropped a ball all afternoon behind the stumps.
From a captain’s perspective, it was a very satisfactory afternoon’s cricket with great attitude, talent and commitment shown by the lads throughout.
A special mention too for young James who completed his first scorebook, which was complemented by the umpires after the game.
Thanks also to Sam for helping him learn the ropes.
Lee
Divine Intervention fails to Halt Sunday Charge
Kirkham & Wesham 76 AO
Towers 78-0
After a week of administrative issues and much horse trading with Thirds skipper Tiger, the Sunday Towers made the trip to Kirkham and Wesham under heavy skies
for their first game since the 2nd May. After being left disenfranchised by a Tarts and Vicars party at LD (first team skipper Johnnyboy was allegedly
spotted walking down Sandy Lane crossing himself and wearing ecclesiastic garb) our opponents generously donated use of their Woodlands ground. After an
hour of rain disruption, the clouds parted, the new £10,000 covers were rolled off and Dougie finished his third pint ahead of his opening spell.
The track was positively dusty and a new cherry was duly handed to warring couple Mick and CD. It was not long before wickets started to fall as
Kirkham’s order declined to build an innings. Of particular delight was the dismissal of amateur cricket’s answer to Payne Stewart, a guy wearing a
flat cap who was facing the bowling machine on arrival and obviously took the game very seriously. After strutting around for a couple of minutes,
he settled down for his first delivery ..... was he a ‘good un’ or show pony? Hilariously, he was toilet and no-one shed a tear when CD caught him at
midwicket off the steady medium pace of Mick Anderson for a paltry 4. Debutant Ryan McKenna finished off the tail with some excellent left-arm bowling and
after only 22 overs, it was off to the bar to cast our eye over the christening party. It was not long before trouble flared as a number of the Towers
plundered the wrong teas, tucking into the guests fruit salad, cold meats and cheesecake instead of the players fayre of egg butties and pork pies.
After an exemplary display of dressing room diplomacy, skipper Thompson elected to open the batting with little brother Martin. Despite some presentable
bowling, the ball was dispatched to all parts and the total was reached with ease in 18 overs, with the Lee and Mars 44 and 26 not out respectively.
All in all a good win and a nice place to do business.
Rory Spins it to Win It
BAC/EE Preston 77 ao
Towers 78-1
Ahead of a mid season break, the Sunday XI bandwagon rolled into British Aircraft Corporation slash English Electric Preston in full expectation of a close
tie. Not only had our opponents the longest name in the league, but also two victories and 400+ runs in the bag already this season. But the Towers had
their own big clunking fist - the largest carbon footprint of any travelling team in the Palace Shield! Such is the requirement for personal comfort and
room for Simon's pads, that it took no fewer than 7 cars to transport the team on their 20 minute journey to Preston.
The pitch was in good nick and the lads had to adjust their eyes to the sight of a gleaming buff-coloured pitch immaculately inscribed into the square.
The skipper proved again to the leagues best tosser by winning for the third game in a row. Despite the licking of lips at the prospect of racking up a
big score, he decided to invite the opposition to bat and selected a brand new cherry to take advantage of the humidity and moisture in the pitch early
doors.
The first few overs were a bit of a wake up call as some loose stuff from the fired up Chats and returning Danny Maynard was dispatched to the midwicket
boundary. However, once Maynard had opener Pilkington neatly snaffled by gloveman Zac Whalley, it was a question of how quickly we could remove the
prolific Hothersall before he did too much damage. Without the talismanic Douglas who was playing football in a cup final, Darwen needed a hero. Enter the
Mighty Panther....
Making the ball fizz, zip, bounce and swerve, the veteran cricket tragic tore through the BAC order, finally removing the dangerman for 36. From the other
end, Buffet rolled back the years with some great stump-to-stump medium pace, taking 2 for 20. Rory finished his spell of 9 overs with 5 for 11, and it was
left to Bob the Builder to finish em off with some filthy half-trackers. The tail didn't wag and we all trooped off for what was, frankly, a disappointing
tea.
The skipper decided to stick with his top order batsmen after an indifferent start to the season, and his faith was repaid in full.
Del Boy Painter opened up with the groggy-looking Matt Painter and easily nudged the score on to 20 before Matt could not apply a finish and dollyed one
up to mid-off. Zac joined Del Boy and after some bizarre flamingo shots, got his eye in and began dispatching the bowlers to all parts, seeing the job
through in a leisurely 28 overs. Job done, and the final words must belong to man of the match Simon: "I dreamed this would happen last night.
I knew my zooters and reverse spinners were good and hope I can now push my credentials for a first team place."
Current Bowling Averages:
S Painter - 18 overs, 11 wickets for 28 runs at 2.5 runs per wicket.
Sunday Gays March On
After a convincing victory the previous week the Sundays Gays took on Gregson lanes finest, who also had recorded a sound victory the week before,
on the Birch. The start was delayed due to the inclement weather conditions but play started after around an hour delay with the game being reduced to 35
over's. Skipper Thompson who seemed nervous at the start as he continuously fidgeted with his receding hairline yet again won the toss and inserted the
opposition in on a now juiced up track.
A solid start for Gregson Lane was ruined by paceman Douglas who had the dangerous Rooney snaffled up at gully after some chin music by a diving Buffet for
9. Another downpour meant the further loss of another 4 over's and an early tea. After the restart wickets fell at regular intervals with only Phil Woods
really troubled the scorer as he somehow made 29 before Greg Lawro had him caught. As the wickets fell and the standard of batsmen was gradually reducing
Simon Painter began to warm up and declared himself fit for a spell. Some tight fielding kept the pressure on especially from veteran Mick Anderson but the
bowlers were let down on some occasions by 'El Capitano' who after eventually moving himself from first slip ( after 2 games) threw himself over a couple
from the bowling of the impressive returning Chatts. Skipper Thomson brought back Douglas into the attack whose pace had reduced from the low 90s to a
now mid 60 due to the large amount of the splendid meat pie he had consumed at the early tea and the gregson lane tailenders struggled to cope with the
waist high full tosses of Painter and the accuracy of Douglas and they finished the innings on 86-9.
In reply a solid start was required but as the case the previous week one was not forthcoming. The 6 foot 9 Darius Ainslie was first to depart for 10
then 3 more quick wickets were lost as the Gregson Lane bowlers could sniff blood. As the previous week Douglas was at the crease with the skip with
the score at a precarious 41 -4. The large crowd of fost teamers and Cooky who had gathered on the Darwen End terrace looked nervous mainly due to the
fact that Painter was due in next but then to add to the drama skipper Thompson tweaked a hamstring ala Tony Russell style which ruled out any quick singles.
The crowd though wanted fireworks from these two experienced batsman and Douglas and Thompson obliged. Douglas hit spinner Woods into the nursery and ended
up 43 Not out off 29 balls and Thompson got 3 off the square and ended up 12 not out off 74 deliveries to ensure another victory for the Sunday Gays.
Relics and Renaissance and Withnell Fold
Withnell Fold 90ao
Darwen Sunday XI 91-5
Darwen Sunday XI Win - 12 Points
Sunday cricket is back at DCC. After a week of selection problems and uncertainty over Palace Shield eligibility rules, the Towers took to the field in the leafy
hamlet of Withnell Fold. What has been variously called the 'Fifths', 'The Ragtag & Bobtailers' and 'Misfits XI' had a nice variety
of youth and experience, cricketing hardnuts and villagers. Three returning Thompsons and three Painters totally outgunned Withnell's paltry two
Fowlers on the family front. Preserved for future generations to enjoy, some of the kit was a trip down memory lane. Amongst the items - a Duncan Fearnley coffin,
some Saint Peter batting gloves, Canvas pads, a Symonds Tusker bat and real wool jumpers.
Conscript captain, Lee Thompson, won the toss, elected to field and left the square to a chorus of expletives from Michael 'Deadly' Douglas who was
hoping for a bit of kip after a long night in the Kings Inn. But the wise old owl correctly judged that the atmospheric conditions were perfect for his
swing and boff-spin attack. Opening the bowling from the Pond End, Danny Maynard swung the ball viciously, causing mayhem on a slow but consistent track
and removing Withnells token ringer. After a 10 over burst from the strike bowlers, Buffet returned to the fray whilst Gregor Lawrenson kept it tight from
the Farmers Field end. At 40 for 4, things were looking good and it was left to Jamie Allsop (puts one in mind of a young Terry Alderman) and Painter S
to finish em off with some clinical bowling. 90 all out in 37 overs. Teas were very good and I should mention the Victoria Sponge in particular, which was
both light and satisfying, washed down with the strongest cup of tea ever.
Darwen's response was lead by Painter M and Painter J. Perhaps getting a bit fidgety in front of the sizeable travelling support (arguably a larger
crowd than Saturday's first team game), both surrendered their wickets cheaply along with Zac Whalley, run out on a direct hit. Big Mars bludgeoned a
couple of fours before falling and at 30 for 4, things were looking a bit bleak. Enter the skipper and a pumped-up Mike Douglas, who had a None-For on the
bowling front and much to prove in front of his cricketing nemesis Cookster. Strangely, Withnell's captain sensed Mickey was a bit of a rabbit and
brought up a silly mid-off and mid-on to veteran dusty-binner Nick Barrett. First ball was duly dispatched high and straight into the cow field and a further
barrage was only halted later on by a contentious caught-behind decision. Nonetheless a quickfire 28 had given the crowd what they wanted and each boundary
was greeted with a chorus of howling from the hill. By contrast, the skipper was content to nurdle singles,
play elaborate 'leaves' and put the trash in the bin. His 21 not out supported by a late cameo by Painter S secured a hard won victory and it was
off to the Hoghton Arms for a few celebratory snifters. Gregson Lane on the Birch next week - your support is much appreciated and a much better option than
B&Q.
Captain Lee Thompson