LPCC 2nd XI vs. Selby II
This week the Red Lion sponsored 2nd XI played host to Selby II. With the sun out, the harvest was ready and so the Park 2nd XI was made up of youth and experience, with debutant from Parks junior programme, Archie Raper, getting the call up.
Park skipper Williamson won the toss and invited the visitors to bat. Opposing skipper Sherwood started aggressively but played one shot too many, and was caught at cover by Tom Noble off Ciaran Brooke’s bowling for 20. Selby advanced the score to 50-1 before Williamson made the 2nd breakthrough, Wilson caught by Foster. Williamson then got another 2 wickets in his next over, both caught and bowled. Selby then rallied with the watchful Leung and the un-orthodox Howard at the crease. Leung was eventually out for a patient 29, LBW to Brooke. Williamson then picked up his fourth as James skied a catch to Joel Taylor. Taylor himself then bowled Howard for 35, and Rich Foster returned and claimed the wicket of Dye for 7. Selby finishing 117 for 8 from their 45 overs. Williamson with 4-37.
After a lovely tea, with cakes worthy of The Great British Bake Off, Park openers Noble and Hodson set about the target. Noble striking the ball well but directly at the fielder. Hodson and Noble punished the bad balls, and any shot that beat the infield raced to the boundary for 4. Hodson was first to 50, but was soon followed by Noble as the pair reached the 100 partnership. The target was reached as Noble struck the ball for 4. Hodson finishing with an unbeaten 59 and Noble unbeaten with 54. Park winning by 10 wickets in less than 25 overs.
This weeks Harpers Man of the Match was Ian Hodson for his innings and his wicket keeping. Park remain 11 points clear of Stamford Bridge in Division 4 West but 3rd place Whitkirk are only 30 behind, and with only 2 sides to be promoted it means it could go down to the wire.