All's well that ends well

Early wickets for the rapidly emerging opening partnership of Thorpey and Tom pegged back Ibstock. Harry Taylor's fighting 50 and a cameo from Harry Crane were the bright spots for Ibstock, but the returning Rich Looms damped their spirits with 4-33 Waggy was again amongst the catches with 3 and Tom took 2 in an improved fielding display.

Toony grabbed a couple of wickets and Matt McDonald one to ensure Ibstock's total was below par when they were dismissed for 141 in the 38th over. In reply a cautious start by Ben and Will was just what was required, but with rain about and the calculators to hand we had fallen slightly behind the asking rate. Ben soon sorted this out taking 14 from Harry Crane's first and only over as the 50 was reached in the 14's over

More boundaries from Ben who has had a fantastic 2nd half of the season and with excellent support from Will, put C'thorpe in total control. Ben holed out at deep long off for a fine 47 and Sy received an unusual LBW when half way down the wicket to the spinner. A momentary wobble as Tom joined Will and both smashed 6's to take the score over the ton. Tom then missed a double bouncer, but Waggy supported Will well before edging to the keeper

Dave joined Will and soon made light work of the outstanding runs, reaching the target in only 29.1 overs Relegation staved off with 2 wins in the final 2 matches, the promise of better things to come with the youth of Tom, Joe Hawker and Matt McDonald, breaking through into the first team to support Will and Ben. Thorpey got the best out of the troops in his first spell in charge and Will's fine 43 not out after another good keeping display gives him another string to his bow.

Overall, whilst the final finishing position was a little disappointing, it was a great learning curve for the lads who are part of one of the few thriving clubs in the county.