Match Report
Thursday 16th June –v- South East London Mercury at Charlton Park (Ray Willis Trophy)
As per norm we were excellently prepared for our second forage into action. The gayer members of our side were obviously looking for local place to pick up young boys and so once again we began short. Having lost the toss we were asked to field by a team who looked far too impressive for my liking. However a strong attack on show and the unlikely back up of the Kevins, Andys and Neil C’s of this world the skip could afford himself a confident smile.
With the two openers looking fairly confident, the skip turned to his experienced bowlers in an attempt to frustrate early scoring. Darren and Steve responded admirably to the task, restricting the oppo to a meagre sixteen in the opening seven overs for the loss of one wicket. Glenn T -who had suffered the overnight delusion of thinking he was a spin bowler- and Steve M continued the good work with containing spells. Only the Viv Richards lookalike (fortunately TLC alike) and the no 3 put up any resistance and the advent of the skip brought the inevitable tumbling of wickets. An accurate spell amassed six wickets and only poor fielding from 'Rhino' Lewis prevented a second career-hat-trick. With only sixty-five to chase the skip turned to Steve L and Neil C (that’s how desperate it was) to build a solid foundation. Unfortunately the plan never materialised with Neil dismissed for a streaky four and Steve following after a quick fire partnership with Gordon which put us ahead of the run rate. Unspectacular efforts from Darren, Steve N and Kevin ensured that the rate was always maintained before Glenn came in with seven wickets down to complete the task with the valuable assistance, of Steve (i2 n.o.).
Not wishing to be stitched up like last week, the skip took the initiative and invited the oppo to a friendly local he knew, that was close by; alas they opted to sulk after their second reverse of the competition.
After a fine game of fives and silly motor bike games we moved on to the Crown at Lee, with the exception of Gordon who went home to celebrate the fact that his car had remained in one piece and one place for the duration of his stay at the Village Blacksmith.
Pen Pictures
Neil Chapman – Wasn’t beaten enough! - Scored some runs and took a catch.
Gordon Schultz- Looking more like a wicket keeper each day - which one I don’t know - Still has problems with the bat.
Steve Lewis - Out louded by Steve M yet again - Another tight spell and quick contribution - Must learn how to catch - Ask the Skip!
Kevin Gibson - Athleticism belies his build – He’s even slower than he looks! - Stout six runs -Used his underpants for a sight screen.
Steve Martin – Backbone of the innings and carried off Best Dressed with a repeat of last week’s Brown Suit Episode
Glenn Timms - Suddenly thinks he is Bishen Bedi - Needs a good slapping to make him bowl properly.
Andy Paul -.Who!
Spud Whale - Awesome! - Accused of bowling against rabbits - Dismissed six bunnies.
Mark Paine - Hurt his back so mumsie wouldn’t let him play. Big girlie!!
