Match Report
Monks Risborough C.C. 30th May 1998
By Tim Greenwood
An exciting draw...and not a contradiction in terms on this
occasion. Hetairoi began the match with a fairly typical ten although on
this occasion there was an excellent reason, with the
unfortunate David Freedman being whisked to hospital to check out a potentially
broken foot. A rather lack lustre bowling performance to be honest, with the
first 50 runs coming exclusively through the leg side or courtesy of extras!
After a close run out appeal had been refused - on the somewhat dubious grounds
that it was too close to call although the umpire confirmed that he thought a TV
replay would have given it out!! - Brian was inspired to take two in two balls
and with the opposition struggling an achievable target looked on the cards.
Howver the MR No.5 batted beautifully for a century that
included three sixes in one over from Richard Andrews. The fielding was average,
but only one chance went down all afternoon. Mention should be made of Mike's
'keeping, two difficult catches, one off a pull and the other off a sweep.
After the customary feast, Hetairoi were left with the small target of 233, a
feat which we subsequently learned had in the opinion of the MRCC historian
never been achieved in his memory, which seemed quite lengthy. That the team got
to within 6 runs was a fine achievement, until the score of 207 for 1 is
remembered and then it pales somewhat. A fine century from another guest ensured
a close finish and two century partnerships with John Rolfe and David Oliver
will create more work for Brian in the stats. But it was a disappointment not to
win, although with 20 required from the last two overs it was too big a task.
Congratulations to Olly for his first match in charge and persuading new friends
to play.
Champagne moment: The third six off Richard Andrews...a
fantastic shot