Walkham Valley v Mainstone
WALKHAM Valley got back to winning ways in this entertaining fixture. In brilliant weather and ground conditions, Walkham batted first and racked up a defendable total.
James Hills continued his excellent streak with a thumping 29 not out which included six boundaries.
His opening partner, Richard Berry, was less fortunate, falling uncharacteristically cheaply to a remarkable catch in the gully by Mike Ashworth.
Chris Long, back in the side after a lengthy absence, celebrated his return with a meaty 22, in a productive partnership with J Berry who contributed 25.
Sandy Ralph (18 not out) kept things ticking over and was joined by Chris Spreadbury who swiftly amassed 27 not out, including a six and three fours, to take the Valley side to 152 for 4 wickets.
Mainstone?s saw five of their number reach double figures before perishing, mainly to catches deep in the outfield from lusty blows.
Closer to the wicket, Ken Kay brought off a catch at slip from Ray Spreadbury?s bowling, and Jim Knight took a wicket with his first legitimate ball as Sandy Ralph snapped up a catch at short mid-off.
Alistair Peers took his second bag of three wickets for the season, thanks to Richard Berry?s agility, as he threw himself about to pick up all three, before taking a wicket himself as the favour was returned.
John Leal celebrated the recent birth of his daughter with a wicket, and Paul Gibbings kept up his record of taking a wicket every match as he clean bowled Kevin Smalley, Mainstone?s top scorer.
With six overs left, things were looking rosy for the visitors, but their tail-end charlies were unable to sustain the gallop and the innings closed on a disappointing, if highly colourful 120 all out.