Important win for firsts

Ashby were asked to bat first and made a solid start with Spencer Clark and Tom Yates putting on 39 for the opening partnership, however Toony entered the attack and had them both back in the pavilion in quick succession, Yates being brilliantly caught by Ben Sharpe. Ian Redfern was dropped first ball, but as overs slipped by began to open up. The unlucky Thorpey who had defeated the batsman numerous times eventually bowled Brooks, but Dan Clarke was supporting Redfern well.

Craig and Gaz entered the attack and Craig had Redfern held at point by Jonny for a well made 52 Clarke was the bowled by Gaz as Ashby had another mini collapse, with Gaz taking another excellent catch to dismiss George Carline. Skipper Perkins and Graham Edwards chipped a few as overs ran out but at half way Countesthorpe were happy to restrict their opponents to 170

Tom and Gaz set off in reply with Tom hitting 2 powerful boundaries before nicking one to slip. Luke and Gaz added 40 before Gaz was caught behind. Yates joined the attack only to be despatched first ball over the pavilion by Luke. However Luke mistimed one soon after and was held at backward point. Jonny and Dave added 20 before Jonny was caught at point of the impressive Jake Poole.

Ben joined his dad and after a slow start started to find the gaps. Dave has played himself in and was now starting to strike the ball cleanly. Perkins switched his bowlers around, but the match winning partnership was now in full swing with 22 coming from 2 overs as the target came into sight. Sadly Ben chipped to mid wicket after adding 68 with Dad. Craig joined Dave to secure a 5 wicket win with Sharpey 41 not out. A very welcome 25 points and confidence restored with a trip to Oakham to come next week.