Report by JH
The mighty 2’s somewhat depleted travelled the short distance to St Albans who’s fourths play at Verulam School. After the rain that had been around, the wicket was something of a surprise as it looked fairly dry on top, but the key went through the top easily so bowling really was the only option at the toss which was won by vice skipper Paul with skipper Jason Lee watching some no hope football match!! The early bowling was ok, the opposition getting some away but also giving the odd chance which were taken. Who would believe the Raeburn brothers taking a slip catch apiece, and after last weeks dismal display behind the stumps Jason redeeming himself with 4 catches and a stumping, one of the catches being only Jason that appealed and the batsman walked!!! (He was run out a few balls earlier but it wasn’t given so maybe he felt guilty). Wickets were shared around all the bowlers, the St Albans innings closing in the 37th over 160 all out. Whilst tea was being taken we had a rain shower (the only shower you could get at this venue, no water!!!) that livened the pitch up a bit for the St Albans opening attack and the first 10 overs was a struggle to get the ball away with both the Daves at the crease (Haggie and Raeburn) we had 11 runs off the first 10 overs with Haggie gone LBW. The Krakkon tried to up the rate a bit but also fell leaving Jason and David to try and pull the innings back round. At 20 overs and drinks it was 60 for 2. The next 20 overs was built into a great run chase with very little chances if any given by either Jason or David as they kept a watchful eye on the good ball but punished anything off line to the boundary. As the partnership built you could see the oppo heads dropping, but then David got a good yorker and played on to be bowled for a well played 31. Sid came and went without troubling the scorer and the oppo could sense that maybe a collapse on the cards. Ian Dyde came to the crease and left the oppo in no doubt of the mood he was in as the first ball was crashed to the boundary followed by several more as he and Jason reached the total with 2 overs to spare, Ian not out 20 and Jason anchoring the innings not out 65. A great finish and a game played in good spirits by all. Celebrate……oh yes we did!!!!