Match Report
A measured fifty from Jabs, ably supported by a typically turgid knock from Moysey, laid the foundations for a successful run chase at Limpsfield Chart on Sunday. After a mid-innings wobble, good contributions from Ben (36*) and Pommie (16*) ensured there was overs to spare when Whyteleafe's target of 146 was overhauled.
With a number of absentees, Crusaders were indebted to Mottingham CC for providing a 'Pair of Dads and Lads' in the shapes of Magnus G&B and Glampson J&J. It soon became apparent that the elders had somewhat passed their sell by dates.
After heavy over-night rain Wajih opted to put our hosts in, feeling that the wicket could only improve for batting, as it dried out. Fine opening spells from Pommie and Mr Taylor, put Whyteleafe on the back foot, with Mike removing Carey in his first over. Whyteleafe never really gained any momentum, with Wajih rotating his bowlers and being rewarded by accurate and economic spells from everyone.
From our Family units, Ben added a different dimension to our fielding - I believe it is known as movement - saving at least ten runs as well as pouching two catches. Our other 'Junior' Jake took a wicket and a catch on debut. Meanwhile the Father's contributed 4 runs and 3 dropped catches between them.
At tea Whyteleafe had reached 146-7 from their allotted 40 overs. And what a tea.
Wajih dropped himself down to number 5, allowing Gary to partner Moysey at the top of the order. All seemed to be progressing nicely, until Gary played all around a full-toss and departed for 4, with the score on 18. A combination of uneven bounce and poor shot selection, saw Mo, Jason and Wajih contributing just one run between them and in the space of ten overs we were 22-4.
Jabs negotiated the hat-trick ball and with Moysey providing the ballast, started to build a valuable partnership. The pair added 66, with Jabs gradually becoming more expansive in his strokeplay, while Moysey retreated so far into his shell you could barely see his nose. After Jabs fell for 56, it was left to Ben and Pommie to knock off the remaining 40 runs, with three overs to spare when victory was achieved.
