Fifteen From Fleetwood

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!

Lancaster Bombers Grounded

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.

Disgraceful Darwen

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.

Weather Helps Darwen Take 9

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.

Better Bats In A Cave

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!

Darwen Complete The Double Over Preston

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.

Handy Work but Another Loss to Netherlands

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.

League Cup Loss to Leyland

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.

Robbed By the Weather

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.

Twenty 20 - Defeat to Chorley

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.

Victory at Last

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.

Twenty 20 - Defeat to Chorley

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

Twenty 20 - Last Over Loss to Leyland

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 Fall Short

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.

Another Weekend Another Loss

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.

Blackpool Rock Darwen

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.

Bank Holiday Shambles

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.

Mint Caked at Kendal

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.

Sundays are Bobbins

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.

Lancs Cup Loss

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.

Losing Draw at Leylandi

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 Win Thriller

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.

Carnage at Carnforth

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

The Darreners Bounceback With Twelve

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.

Twisted But Not Stirred

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!!

Atif The Record Breaker

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.

Fleetwood Smashed But To No Avail

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!

Netherlands Clogged All Over

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.

No Pushovers at Chorley

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.

Middle Order Heroics

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.

Rain Again and St.Annes Bullied into Submission

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

Andrew Cooks Up A Miracle

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.

Its Raining Again and a Cup Disaster

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.

Rubbish on Fleet Street

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.

Batsmen Let Us Down

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.

Weather Ruins Bank Holiday Game

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.

Twelve from Preston

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.

Bullied at St.Annes

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.

Rain Stopped Play

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!!

Carnforth Defeated

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.

Winning Draw at the Seaside

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.

Kendal Sent Packing

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.

Victory at Leyland

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.

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.

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

Defeat to Barrow

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.