LPCC 2nd XI vs Easingwold 2nd XI
This Saturday the Parks 2nd XI entertained top of the table Easingwold 2nd XI. With the sun beating down all week at full strength, the Parks XI was somewhat under strength, with harvest, holidays and man flu affecting selection.
With the toss lost as per usual, Park were invited to bat as per usual. The Park's 2nd XI looked particular young, however the not so young opening partnership of John Williamson and birthday boy Tim Stephenson strode out to the wicket. A first wicket stand of 48 was broken when Sergeant bowled Tim for a well made 19. With John going well at the other end he just needed a partner to stay with him, as a further 2 quick wickets fell. Lewis Medley played confidently, striking the ball well but just being restricted by some good ground fielding. Lewis and John took the score to 116 with a a partnership of 55, before John decided to attempt a suicidal single and was sent back by Lewis. With a turning circle similar to that of a large ship, John was run out (marooned?) by direct hit for an excellent 71. As the Parks innings reached the latter stages some impetus was required for a competitive total. With some mature shot selection and excellent running, Toby and Lucas Stephenson took the score to the 150 mark, before Lucas was harshly adjudged run out. The final couple of overs saw the Park's score reach 163-7, Toby finishing with a fine 25 not out, 6 more than Dad.
After a fantastic tea, Park set about defending a respectable total. Easingwold are top of the league for a reason, and the strength of their batting showed why. With a top 4 containing 2 regular Premier division players, the Park's young bowling attack struggled to take wickets and contain the scoring. Easingwold's total of 166 for 2 off 34 overs doesn't tell the full story. An impressive spell from Alex Varley was topped off when he bowled opener Ramsey. Wicket keeping duties this week fell to Ian Hodson, who took a smart catch behind from the spin of Lucas Stephenson. Even more impressive considering he had his eyes shut. Opener Mierswinski, easy for you to say, reached a well made 50 and then was joined by his skipper Metcalfe who was clearly missing home. Metcalfe bludgeoned his way to a rapid 47, with a couple of short 6's into the wood. There was time before the end for Rory Stephenson to have a bowl, his 1 over nearly bowling Metcalfe who hadn't anticipated the swing. Metcalfe clearly was troubled by Rory and so next over hit cousin Will for 15 to win the game, and denied Rory the chance of another over. Overall Park fielded well but just couldn't restrict a stronger side. Harpers man of the match fish and chip voucher went to the salivating John Williamson for his impressive knock of 71.