Davenham Prevail in Mid Table Finale!

Davenham 157 for 6 (35.5 overs) 25 points beat Marple 155 all out (41.1 overs) 6 points by six wickets.

This game did not produce a memorable finish to the 2016 cricket season, as Marple ended the campaign as they began it with an away defeat to a mid Cheshire side.

The early overs of the Marple innings were though, dominated by a fine knock from Andrew Hall. Hall produced some scintillating stroke play with boundaries all around the wicket.

Sadly for the visitors, this exhibition did not inspire his teammates, George Pearson excepted. Maybe a makeshift middle order was deluded into thinking that batting was an easy occupation after watching Hall at work, for from the heady heights of 113 for one, Marple collapsed to just 155 all out. Hall (73) and Pearson (55) added 99 for the second wicket, but no other Marple batsman reached double figures as the rest of the innings became a procession on a blameless if slowish surface. Ed Saxelby remained undefeated as he held his end up in support of Pearson. 

The home attack was steady but by no means unplayable, with Taylor taking 5 for 55 and Blackie 3 for 14.
Led by South African Christian (58), Davenham made light of the target. A flurry of late wickets gave the score line a slightly flattering look from a Marple point of view. Andy Greasley was Marple's best bowler, seemingly having the ball on a string and being the only one to give a semblance of control. He fully deserved his 3 for 25 from 14.5 overs. Joe Cash battled away to take 3 for 46. 

In contrast to the glorious September sunshine, the Marple effort had very much the feel of the end of the season, with the fielding slack, and a number of chances going down. The side finished a wet season, (seven games lost to rain) in the lower half of division one of the Cheshire County League.

 Skipper George Clarke, with 6 for 25, was well supported by Andy Massey 3 for 21, as Marple seconds were comfortable winners over Macclesfield seconds at Mellor on Saturday. Marple were in trouble at 30 for 4, but Andy Mummery hit a fine and sometimes brutal 44 to to rescue the home side in partnership with Ryan Lindsay, 37. A total of 150 was way too many for Macclesfield on a tricky surface, as they succumbed for only 70 all out.

Marple thirds lost an entertaining game of cricket at Cale Green Stockport on Sunday. Chasing a huge 243 to win, Marple were eventually bowled out for 220.

Valiant Menzies Efforts in Vain!

Didsbury 140 for 4 (30.4 overs) 25 points beat Marple 138 all out 49.3 overs) 3 points by six wickets

At first glance on paper this game looks to have been a comfortable win for the league leaders Didsbury. With this victory, they assured themselves of promotion back to the Cheshire County Premier League. However, it was a game of what ifs (?) for Marple.

The visitors, with a number of players unavailable for this game, were inserted by Didsbury captain Nick Anderson. This practise has become the norm in the league this year, with sides generally believing that they are better at chasing than setting a target, whatever the conditions. On this occasion, the Didsbury pitch appeared to be a good cricket wicket. There was some movement for the seamers, and also some turn for the spinners. Also, if the bowler strayed, there was opportunity for the watchful batsman to play strokes, there being some good carry, and short boundaries square of the wicket.

Although Anderson was variable in line and length, his partner White settled well against Hall and Pearson.  The latter received a good one which he edged to keeper Leech at 6 for one.  This brought in Mark Makin at number three. After some careful appraisal of the conditions, the second wicket pair once again began to make batting look ridiculously easy. White’s early control deserted him, and with Anderson struggling for consistency, the runs began to flow as both players found the boundary with some glorious strokeplay. Maybe there was an element of over confidence from both players, as inevitably Anderson changed his attack at both ends. Off spinner Normanton is a deceptive bowler. Unusually, for the modern spinner, he has a longish run up. This enables him to vary his pace cunningly. Hall, seemingly not wanting to allow him to settle, danced down the pitch, misread the length and was bowled for a promising 27, the fifty having come up at an excellent rate. No panic yet for Marple though, as Makin appeared unfazed, and Wood is normally unflappable. However, the alarm bells began to ring for Marple when Makin aimed a pull at a ball from the left arm seamer Davenport that was too full. He too was comprehensively bowled for 30. When the promoted Joe Cash fell lbw for a duck, also to Davenport, Marple were 60 for 4, and the initial free scoring period was at an end.

Matt Barrow at six was playing his maiden first eleven game of the season.  With the home attack now gaining the ascendancy, the omens looked bleak for the visitors, especially as Barrow made several swishes at fresh air, and Wood, not unnaturally, was not at his most fluent. However, catastrophe was averted as Barrow began to play well in support of Wood who once again looked as though he was turning the game his side’s way. Although progress was slow, the fifth wicket stand added 33. Anderson then played his trump card of the afternoon in the shape of left arm spinner Matt Gregson. Once again, Marple became like rabbits in the headlights against this form of attack. Wood (26) was adjudged lbw, and although Menzies stayed with Barrow a while, there was no sense of permanency.  A brilliant throw from Hughes ran out Barrow for a gutsy 32 at 118 for 6. Barrow’s innings was a welcome bonus for Marple, and he showed his usual determination, and also hit a lofted a six off Gregson. The only other innings of note for Marple came from Ed Saxelby, who played a stylish little knock of 12, the highlight being a glorious extra cover drive off Anderson when the home skipper returned. Although Marple batted into the final over, Gregson polished off the tail with little resistance to finish with 5 for 19 from 9.3 overs. A final total of 138 looked to be somewhat below par.

When Didsbury began their reply, Menzies looked to be fired up for the battle. He was right on target in the first over, as he found an excellent rhythm, his pace up. The prolific Hughes was beaten all ends up and bowled for a duck.  Marple were unable to capitalise on this early success though. Menzies, overstretching himself, then bowled a succession of no balls, and Jack Grundy was unable to find his usual line and length at the other end, even bowling five wides. These extras let Didsbury off the hook, despite Menzies mixing up some absolute snorters, which just missed the batsmens’ outside edge, amongst the no balls. Andy Greasley replaced Grundy, and immediately settled into a probing spell, soon having Normanton (15) beautifully caught by Joe Cash at mid on. Menzies had settled again, and produced yet another beauty to bowl Taylor for 16, and Didsbury were tottering at 47 for 3. It was not to be Greasley’s day though as Marfani and Anderson groped around, and Marfani survived two confident lbw appeals that must have been very close. This fourth wicket stand rode its luck and began to prosper once Menzies was rested.  They added 64, with the powerful Anderson being the dominant partner. Menzies returned to shatter his stumps at the mythical total of Nelson, 111 for 4. Anderson (40) had played a fine knock for his side, and any thought Marple might have at getting back into the game were dashed as Gregson capped an excellent day with a rapid 15 not out including a huge six. Marfani was undefeated on 37 at the end as the victory was achieved. Not a fluent innings this, but it was his day in the sun. Menzies bowled with real venom throughout his two spells marred only by some overstepping, and his figures of 3 for 41 from 11 overs did him scant justice.

Marple’s final league game of the 2016 season is also away at Davenham, next Saturday 17th September 12.30pm start.

Marple seonds lost to Didsbury seconds by five wickets in a game played at Mellor’s Longhurst Lane ground due to improvements taking place at Marple. On another difficult surface Marple were bowled out for 106, with Ryan Lindsay and Andy Massey both battling into the thirties. Didsbury decided on an aggressive policy in pursuit of the target, and although losing five wickets on the way, ran home comfortable victors by the margin of five wickets with overs to spare. The good news for Marple was that they maintain their place in the second eleven premier league for 2017 with results elsewhere going in their favour.

There was also relief for Marple thirds on Sunday at Toft, when a last over two wicket win assured them of cricket in the Sunday third eleven premier league for next year. Toft made 145 for 9 with Connor Bergin taking 3 for 8, Paul Roberts 2 for 49 and Sam Stretton 2 for 31. Marple slumped to 27 for 4, but a stand of 91 between Matt Leech, 67, and Dav Tomlinson, 19, brought Marple back into it. A further flurry of wickets had hearts pounding, but Sam Stretton with 15 not out coolly saw Marple home with three balls to spare!

Washout at Sale and a tough day for the seconds

Torrential rain once more forced Marple's game at Sale to be abandoned without a ball being bowled. All games in the Cheshire County League were rained off on a dire Saturday.

With seven out of twenty games lost to the elements for Marple, the 2016 season already equals that of 2012 which was the wettest since 1912! A trip to league leaders Didsbury awaits the team next Saturday, 10th September, 12.30pm start.

Runs were hard to come by in Marple's second eleven game played at Mellor on Sunday.

 A number of dropped catches allowed the visitors Hyde to reach a way above par score of 128 all out on a treacherous pitch. Skipper George Clarke had a 4 for 36 return with Andy Hayes and Andy Massey taking three apiece. Marple's reply never got going, with only Mike Fitzgerald (14) registering double figures as Marple collapsed to just 60 all out. For Hyde, Humphries had the fine figures of 5 for 16 from 15 overs.

Marple cricket chairman and club legend Chris Lees leads the Cheshire over 60 side in the national over 60's final against Kent at Lutterworth, Leicestershire, on Tuesday. The club wishes Chris and his troops all the best after a terrific season for veterans cricket in Cheshire.

Wylie Leads The Way On Day Of Double Delight For Marple!

Marple 110 for 5 (23.4 overs) 25 points beat Oulton Park 106 all out (33.5 overs) by five wickets. 

There was hope that the weather forecasters would be correct and no rain would fall during Marple’s final home game of the 2016 season.  Extensive renovation work on the square and outfield begins this week, and the first eleven have three away fixtures to follow in September, whilst the seconds will play at Mellor’s picturesque ground to complete their season. However, once more in this wet summer, rain interfered with Saturday cricket at Bowden Lane.

Although Paul Wood won the toss and decided to field first in the overcast and autumnal conditions,  his opening attack of Menzies and Wylie were not initially able to bowl the correct length for the wicket. Both bowlers overpitched, and one of the form opening partnerships in the league, East and Leech in particular, was able to get off to a fast start. The first three overs yielded 29 runs, and the normally mild mannered Wood must have had his patience stretched. The first of two rain delays then forced the players from the field just after it appeared that the bowlers had found some sort of rhythm.  No time was lost from the game as a result of this stoppage, and after a twenty minute break, it became apparent that further free scoring would be difficult. Although East hooked Menzies for a couple of fours, the bowler was generating some pace, and the ball carried waist high and above to keeper Morgan who was standing 20 yards back. Wylie meanwhile, found an awkward length, and no liberties could be taken with him. Leech was first to go, smartly caught at gully off Wylie for a promising 33 by his old Cheshire colleague Hall.

It was soon afterwards, at 43 for one,  that heavy rain looked to have brought an end to the proceedings. An early tea was eventually taken, but hope of further play looked unlikely, even though Park, in with a chance of promotion, wanted to wait as long as possible. When the elements finally relented, a game of only 60 overs was possible, although the visitors still had the opportunity of batting the full 50 overs. Wood resisted any idea of serving up some declaration bowling, instead keeping his slips in place and using Menzies and Wylie to attack. This strategy paid off handsomely, as both bowlers were still fresh and able to gain disconcerting bounce in Menzies case and movement and some awkward lift in that of Wylie. East (19) fell at 59 for 2, caught and bowled by Menzies trying to break the shackles. After this there was a dramatic collapse. Wylie did not bowl a bad delivery, and one or two lower order Park batters appeared unnerved by the extra pace and bounce generated by Menzies. With the help of two fine slip catches apiece from Greasley and Wood and a brilliant diving effort from keeper Morgan to remove Latham, it became a sorry procession for the visitors. Wylie fully deserved the excellent return of 6 for 47 from his fifteen overs.

Menzies recovered well from an uncertain start to take 3 for 55 from his fifteen. Greasley and Jack Grundy, who took the tenth wicket, allowed no respite, talking the final wicket at a combined cost of 1 for 2 from four overs. 106 all out after 33.5 overs was a below par score in what were testing conditions, but also on a pitch where the ball came onto the bat, and where the outfield was quick.

With just 26 overs available to Marple, victory was by no means a formality. Mark Bennett fell to a perfectly pitched off break from Blandford in the second over, and with Makin unavailable this game, Joe Cash was promoted to number three with a licence to attack with freedom. Although making only 12, he took Blandford by surprise, hitting him for a monumental six over extra cover. Andrew Hall, at the other end, seemed frustrated by the nagging accuracy of Guy Emmett. Emmett, a left arm seamer,  boasts excellent control, but in this situation he “hung” the ball outside the off stump with an 8-1 or 7-2 field. After failing to find the wide open spaces on the leg side, Hall (9) was caught behind by Roberts, edging an attempted off drive. Blandford had not settled, and so it was first change Hyslop who got his side into the game when Cash was also caught behind from a skier to leave Marple tottering at 22 for 3.

In the second half of this summer, Marple’s top order has all at various times stepped up to the plate. It has usually been at least two or three of the vaunted top five that have done the job. With the pressure on, it was this week the turn of Jim Morgan and captain Paul Wood to turn the game Marple’s way. Morgan has hardly needed to play himself in during recent weeks such is his confidence. He appeared to relish the situation facing him here, and he calmed any home nerves with some glorious strokeplay, particularly through the off side.

Wood then smote the unfortunate Blandford for two more huge straight sixes, and Park began to wilt. The fourth wicket stand advanced at a rapid pace, and although Roberts switched his bowlers around, a comfortable home win looked imminent. There was a slight wobble when first Morgan (41) edged Blandford to Roberts, and then Heginbotham (0) was adjudged lbw two balls later at 91 for 5. However, George Pearson (6 not out) showed fine temperament in what were now very dark conditions in support of the unfazed Wood (40 not out). The remaining runs were gathered without further alarm in the 24th over. A powerful square cut for four fittingly from Wood brought Marple a victory that had seemed unlikely during the rain break earlier in the afternoon. Park’s most successful bowler was Blandford with 3 for 57, but he was subjected to some heavy punishment from Morgan and Wood.

Marple visit another side with promotion hopes at Sale next Saturday, 3^rd September with a 12.30 start.

 In the drier climate that prevails over in the west of the county, George Clarke’s industrious and enterprising second eleven got their just rewards after several weeks playing good cricket without a win, with a 140 runs trouncing of high flying Chester Boughton Hall at Filkins Lane. Keeper batsman Andy Wild has been in terrific form this season, and with a score of 109 here, he went past 500 runs for 2016. Although Tim Radford, (13) and Jake Warner (25) gave good support early on in the innings, it was the century plus fourth wicket stand between Wild and evergreen Garry Cash (65 not out) that turned the game well and truly Marple’s way. Cash is still a big headache for opposition bowlers, and he batted with great application during this partnership. Although captain Riley’s six bowlers all battled hard, they suffered some serious hammer and were glad to come off at tea with Marple having reached a formidable 238 for 4 in the fifty overs.

Faced with the unusual task of chasing down this target on their home ground Chester buckled, as Clarke used himself and the wily Andy Hayes to open the bowling. Only Metcalf (22) of the top order stayed any length of time, and it was veteran seamer  Alex Kegg, at number ten, who was top scorer with 24. Chester subsided to only 98 all out with 16 overs remaining. Clarke had 3 for 26 and Hayes 4 for 37, with Andy Massey 2 for 29 mopping up the tail.  This important win moves Marple clear of the bottom two in the second eleven premier league.

Marple thirds were once more narrowly defeated on Sunday. This time they lost a close contest by three wickets after posting 151 for 6. Sale recovered from 39 for 4 to clinch the victory. The excellent Mark Nicholson made 67 for Marple. In Sale’s reply Joe Cannon had 61 not out and Dan Newton 41, whilst Ed Saxelby took a valiant 3 for 40 for Marple.

Marple Just Edge Bizarre Game With Magnificent Makin Leading the Way!

Marple 217 all out (40.2 overs) 25 points beat Tattenhall 213 all out (43.1 overs) 8 points by four runs

Tattenhall boast one of the most picturesque and top quality grounds in the county. Even with a howling south westerly gale and an ever present threat of rain, the ground is one that is enjoyed by players and spectators alike. The club has staged a three day Cheshire minor county fixture this season, and with the pitch having good carry and pace,  and the outfield quick as lightning, this seems to have been richly deserved.

Although Tattenhall are all but relegated to division two of the Cheshire County League after a difficult season, the side, containing several young players of ability and spirit never gave up in this game. Home skipper Sadler elected to field first against an in form Marple top order, and although his opening attack of Johnson and Wilson found some lift and pace in the pitch, Marple have experience and quality in their batting. Mark Bennett fell for 17 at 27 for one after looking in prime form,

but this only brought in Andrew Hall to join Mark Makin. This second wicket pairing made batting look ridiculously easy, as the ball was repeatedly despatched to the boundary. Runs flowed at such a pace that a total well in excess of 250 looked to be a certainty. However, a heavy rain shower meant that seven overs were lost from the game. On the resumption, although Makin and Hall continued in fluent vein, captain Wood probably had a target in mind before declaring and leaving sufficient overs to bowl out the opposition. Hall (49) managed to top edge a long hop from Siebert to backward point at 136 for 2, 

but Wood himself seemed settled with Makin who was in imperious form.

Makin is a player who can make even experienced bowlers look like novices, and in this mood he reduced the home attack to almost despair. Even when Wood fell at 163 for 3, Tattenhall must have feared the worst as the belligerent Morgan joined in the carnage. However, the heights of 202 for 4 proved to be the end of the destruction. Inexplicably, Makin was bowled by the returning Wilson on 98. His anguish at missing out on a hundred was plain to see, and he can hardly have struck the ball better, with 14 fours and 3 sixes in this terrific knock.

 Did the Marple middle and lower order think the game was easy after watching the entertainment? Poor Jim Morgan (29) suddenly found himself off strike and the score 208 for 7!

When he perished trying to force the pace the fun and games were over.  Marple collapsed to 217 all out. For Tattenhall, Callum Wilson returned 6 for 46, a commendable effort, as he had to toil into a strong wind for his eleven overs. Although Marple had been bowled out, they still had the runs on the board, and 52 overs to bowl out the opposition.

Immediately after the resumption, a heavy shower lopped eight further overs from the game. However, with the Marple attack of Menzies and Wylie having to contend with a wet ball and also the strong wind, openers, Siebert and Henry Dobson appeared in little trouble. Menzies in particular struggled with his length, even with the wind behind. He either over pitched or served up some short and wide deliveries. With Wylie battling into the elements, the scoreboard began to rattle along, Siebert being in particularly good touch. With excellent running combined with the loose deliveries being put away, the hundred stand came up without loss. Fortunately for Marple, Andy Greasley settled into an accurate spell with the wind behind him. A smart caught and bowled did for Dobson (34), and Harding soon followed for only five at 116 for 2. The pressure was always on Siebert to keep up the run rate, as the middle order struggled for fluency.  Inevitably, he fell to a fine caught and bowled for 83 when Menzies returned into the wind at 160 for 5. When Joe Cash brought off a terrific catch at deep mid wicket to dismiss Sadler, the game was surely won for Marple? However, the Tattenhall lower order, particularly numbers ten and eleven, Johnson and veteran Mel Dobson had other ideas. Commendably, from 191 for 9, and with less than three overs remaining, they went for glory. Dobson memorably struck two superb cover drives off Menzies to keep his side in the hunt. However, Menzies had the last laugh, when with the first ball of the final over he caught and bowled Johnson. Marple edged it by just four runs. Menzies, paradoxically, bowling with more menace into the wind then with it had 6 for 62, and Greasley, who gave Wood control from one end, 3 for 50 from fifteen quality overs.

This win, the fourth in the last six games, keeps Marple climbing the Cheshire County League division one table.  Next week, they entertain Oulton Park at Bowden Lane with a 1.00pm start. 

Rain and bad light brought an early finish to a reduced overs game between the two clubs’ second elevens at Marple.  The home side batted fluently to reach 213 for 3 from 44 overs, with in form Andy Wild making 46, Tim Radford an excellent 75 and Jake Warner a classy 51 not out. A potentially good finish to the game was denied to the spectators as the elements closed in with Tattenhall on 131 for 3. Fourteen overs remained to be bowled.

On Sunday, Marple thirds lost by two wickets to Alderley Edge, after a ninth wicket stand of 60 brought the visitors the win. Marple, in club veteran Mike Booth’s final game, totalled 156 for 5 in 35 overs, the game having  started late due to rain. Booth shared a 100 opening stand with Lewis Braddock who made a terrific 80. Although Conor Bergin, with four wickets, and Albert Connor two, looked to have set Marple on the road to victory, it was not to be.

This game shows that the league may need to review it’s rules and regulations regarding Sunday cricket. Marple certainly had no quibble about the fact that they lost this game. However, Alderley turned up with only eight men for the start of the match, and then found themselves up to a full compliment as a number of players came along from the club’s second team that had been beaten in the semi finals of the second eleven T20 competition at Chester! How would they would have managed had their seconds made the final?  Also, one of their team was injured in the field, but did not feature on the batting card, his place being taken by another player at number eleven.

One is all for flexibility in Sunday cricket, but with no league officials present to umpire, the game is reliant on the trust and goodwill of both sides. This would not appear to be the case in this situation.

Solid Marple Give Bollington No hope!

Marple 210 for 8 (50 overs) 25 points to beat Bollington 163 all out (46.2 overs) 5 points by 47 runs.

The second half of the 2016 season has finally seen Marple get a run of consecutive games under their belt. With a comprehensive victory over a stubborn Bollington side, Marple are edging toward the top half of the first division of the Cheshire County League.

A dry Saturday was by no means a certainty after wet weather once again during the week prior to the game, but groundsman Mike Hibbert had yet again
produced a good cricket wicket. Marple's batting has looked secure of late, and Paul Wood was probably not too displeased to be asked to bat first.

Although Mark Makin fell early after two previous scores in the seventies, Marple welcomed back Andrew Hall after three weeks away. He and Mark Bennett continued their fine form, and put together a solid second wicket stand, without quite getting away from the battling visiting attack. They added 72 good runs, but both were dismissed close together, Hall for 37 and Bennett for 46, to leave Marple vulnerable. Mr Reliable, captain Paul Wood, came to the rescue once more with his fourth half century in five innings. He batted through from 97 for two, remaining unbeaten on 71. He received good support from Dylan Heginbotham (22) who played some pleasing strokes once he settled in. From a Marple perspective it was also good to see Joe Cash return to first team action. He added some much needed solidity to the lower middle order. 210 for 8 was going to be a challenging target for the visitors.

Bollington skipper, Richard Hough is one of the best players in division one, and he always sells his wicket dearly. The two Dickinsons lent excellent support and an intriguing game seemed to be in prospect. Andy Wylie was wicketless for Marple, but was once more right on target, and was never collared by the Bollington batsmen.

Jack Grundy has settled well into first eleven cricket, and with Andy Greasley back in prime form, the pressure told. Once Bollington had slipped to 98 for 3, Hough out for 43, and behind the asking rate, Marple were favourites. Only Horsfield, with a valiant 48 was able to keep the home side at bay, and when the returning Joe Cash was introduced, the end came quickly. Cash picked up 3 for 7 in no time to help Marple to a comfortable 47 run win. In support, Greasley had 2 for 36 from 15 overs, Grundy 2 for 25, once more taking valuable top order wickets, and Menzies, a little expensive this week with 2 for 67.

Marple visit bottom club Tattenhall next Saturday with a 1.00pm start.

Marple seconds are playing some good cricket of late, but are just not able to get that all elusive win. Once more it was a narrow two wicket defeat, this time at Alderley Edge. Andy Wild carried his bat for 60 not out as Marple struggled to 146 all out. Adit Kulkarni gave the innings some much needed impetus with 30, and Andy Hayes helped Wild add 30 for the tenth wicket. Hayes, with three wickets, was the leading bowler as Alderley battled to 147 for 8. All the bowlers fought hard, and skipper Clark will feel that if this sort of performance continues for the rest of the season, then safety can be achieved.

Marple thirds topsy turvy season continued with a 51 run defeat at Grappenhall. Grappers totalled a formidable 221 for 7, with only Rick Major, 4 for 29 from eleven overs able to stem the tide. Marple's hero in a losing cause was Matt Leech with a stirring 82 out of a total of 170 all out.

Small Margins Leave Marple Settling For the Draw

Marple 208 for 8 (50 overs) 8 points drew with Warrington 218 for 7 (50 overs) 14 points

On a glorious summer afternoon, Paul Wood won the toss at Warrington last Saturday, and he must have thought twice before inserting the home team. The Walton Leigh Road ground has traditionally favoured sides that can put a good score on the board and then pressurise the opposition. Although Marple made a good fist of chasing down a demanding target, an inconsistent effort in the field meant that a total of 219 for victory was just a few too many.

Warrington posted 218 for 7 in the full fifty overs. Although, Wylie with 3 for 51, and Greasley 2 for 39, bowled with skill and determination, a flurry of 80 runs from the final ten overs meant a tough chase for Marple. Once more, the ground fielding let the visitors down, and possibly cost the team a dozen runs or more. This could have made the difference between the draw and victory. For Warrington Stone had a fluent 84, and he was well supported by skipper Rudd with 40 not out and Heaphy 38.

Marple got an excellent start with the in form Bennett and Makin once more leading the way. This week Bennett (50) was the dominant partner in an opening stand of 81. Makin (70) then received good support from Jim Morgan with 44. At 198 for four victory looked to be a distinct possibility, but only three overs remained. Scoreboard pressure told on the middle and lower order, and as usual it was always difficult for the new batsmen coming in to time the ball immediately. Warrington sensed a win for themselves, but in the end Marple's 208 for 8 left Warrington the happier of the teams. Brad Macintosh had 4 for 54 for the home side.

This was a game Marple had hoped to win, but a few loose ends, particularly in the field cost them dear. Next week they are back on home ground with a game against an awkward Bollington side, 1.00pm start.


Marple seconds were once more involved a fine game at Bowden Lane on Saturday. A terrific batting effort saw a total of 236 for 5 posted, George Pearson 64, Andy Wild 45, Gary Cash, 35, Andy Massey 28 not out and Joe Cash 25 not out. After a century plus opening stand from Prince and Wells, Cheadle closed agonisingly short on 234 for 8, with veteran left arm spinner Andy Hayes back in the wickets with 4 for 52. Spin twin Andy Massey capped a fine all round display with 2 for 25.

Drinks and Then Grundy Lift Lethargic Marple!

Marple 139 for 2 (26.4 overs) 25 points beat Cheadle Hulme 137 all out (37.1 overs) 2 points by eight wickets.

A remarkable spell of 6 for 15 from Marple's up and coming seam and swing bowler Jack Grundy inspired Marple to what was ultimately to prove a thrashing of old rivals Cheadle Hulme last Saturday.

When Cheadle Hulme had reached the heady heights of 102 for 1 at the drinks interval, few in the good crowd at Grove Park could have predicted what was to follow. Jordan Potts had supported Taylor Williams in a dominant stand for the second wicket, despite the early loss of North of England age group player George Balderson to the nagging Wylie for only 3 at 9 for 1. Williams times the ball well, particularly through the off side, but also plays well of his legs. Once he got in, the Marple seamers were dispatched to the boundary with ease, and it looked as though a total of 220 plus was on the cards.

When the drinks break came, possibly Marple captain Paul Wood suggested to his team that it might be a good idea to sharpen up. The ground fielding had been distinctly ordinary, and even the normally reliable Morgan had spilled a relatively straightforward chance behind the stumps. What followed can only be described as total capitulation from the home side. Jack Grundy was introduced, and with his third delivery clean bowled Taylor (62) who aimed across the line. It was the shot of a man who had found the game just too easy. Another wicket followed in Grundy's second over, that of Ghafoor also bowled for one.

Jordan Potts had been becalmed on 31 for twenty minutes, and when the wily Greasley breached his defences on the same score, the game was up for Hulme. Grundy was unstoppable, getting late and awkward movement in the air. The last nine wickets fell for just 30 runs in twelve overs. His final figures of 6 for 15 could have been even better but for 6 wides and a no ball! Greasley did not bowl a bad delivery in support, with a miserly 3 for 23 from eleven overs. Jim Morgan redeemed himself to pouch four catches, and his "bag" of victims continues to grow rapidly this season.

With 62 overs available to score 138 runs this game was not going end in a draw! Marple openers Mark Bennett and Mark Makin were in little trouble from the start, although the early overs from Mo Ali had to be watched with care. Makin could actually have been run out for a duck, but was fortunate to get off the mark with a five as the run out attempt went for four overthrows. This quirky start to his innings obviously fired up Marple's mercurial stroke maker. When in this mood, all bowlers are just pure cannon fodder to him. It was regal entertainment for the crowd as a ten wicket win looked on the cards. Poor Balderson went for 24 in his fourth over with six fours dismissed to all parts of the ground by Makin. This talented young all rounder will surely come back strongly, but here he should console himself with the fact that more experienced bowlers than him have received similar treatment when Makin is in this form. 

It was a surprise when Makin was bowled by Beckley for 71, and although Jake Warner was lbw to the same bowler soon afterwards, there was no real alarm for Marple. Bennett (43 not out)was rock solid in defence, and put away anything loose in brutal fashion. Skipper Wood was not going to hang about and his rapid 19 not out brought Marple very welcome and dominant win.
Next week sees the team on the road once more, this time at Warrington, 1.00pm start.

In an excellent game of second team cricket, Marple lost by the narrow margin of just 7 runs at home to Timperley. A total of 224 was always going to be tough, but when Marple had reached 179 for 3, a much needed win looked on the cards. However, in form man Ryan Lindsay fell for 69, after Andy Wild had got things underway with a fine 56. Even with veteran Gary Cash making a fluent 44, scoreboard pressure got to the middle and lower order, and the last wicket fell with just three deliveries remaining.

A superb effort from the third eleven brought a seven wicket win over Cheadle at Bowden Lane on Sunday. Tom Travis and Jacob Combey had three wickets apiece in the visitor's 161 all out. A solid batting response from Matt Barrow, 57 not out, Mark Nicholson, 42, and Matt Leech 31, meant the result was never in doubt.

Grappenhall Prevail in Thriller!

Dogged resistance and then some lusty blows from Grappenhall’s lower order brought the visitors an unlikely victory at Bowden Lane last Saturday.

For a change, warm and fine weather greeted the players as Marple hoped to build on the previous week’s fine win at Oxton. On a good pitch, Paul Wood was probably not too displeased to be asked to bat first, as the outfield was cropped short, and his batsmen had run into some form. However, three fairly soft early wickets put the home side on the backfoot at 43 for 3. Mark Bennett, (2) mistimed a pull shot from accurate left arm seamer Guest and was caught by McCoy at mid on. Next, Jake Warner (1) called for a suicidal run and was sent back by Mark Makin and run out by yards. Makin himself, after looking in prime form with several glorious drives, also mistimed and was well caught at extra cover off the lively Burns having stroked 29 seemingly effortless runs. Once again, skipper Wood was in early in a mini crisis, and he was joined by Jim Morgan at number five. This fourth wicket pairing then produced probably Marple’s best partnership of the season so far. Andrew Hall, absent this game, and Mark Bennett had added 179 against Cheadle Hulme earlier in the season, but here the situation was more difficult, and the bowling generally tighter.

The stand gradually became dominant, as both players kept pace with each other, running well between the wickets and putting the bad balls away to the boundary. Morgan was first to the half century, and when he is in this form he is a very attractive player to watch. He pulls sometimes violently, and times the ball well off the front foot. This makes him difficult to bowl at and also to set a field to. Wood is the man to have in when the going is tricky. Like Morgan he has many scoring areas, and is prepared  to give respect to the bowlers early in his innings. 133 runs were added by Wood and Morgan, and they put Marple into a healthy position. Both batsmen were dismissed by Albert Pennington towards the end of the innings, Morgan for 76 and Wood 68. Pennington was the best of the three Grappenhall spinners on the day, even outbowling the vaunted Ryan Ninan who has appeared in the IPL in recent times. A final total of 194 for 5 was probably just above par on a pitch that rewarded both good batting and bowling of all types.

When the visitors’ reply began it was skipper and left hander Roylance who looked in good touch, with a number of well timed boundaries. However, both  Menzies and Wylie had to be watched with care, and the cricket was tense. Menzies had been bowling in the Old Trafford nets during the week at both the England and Pakistan test players, and looked to be in good rhythm. Both openers were caught behind in the same over, and then in his next over Radage, late in defence was lbw for a duck. The visitors were 36 for 3, and then Wylie got in on the act with the wicket of Ninan, also lbw for 5.

It was a little surprising that Menzies was rested after his spell of 3 for 12 from just six overs, but when Greasley settled quicky and had Bodha caught at short leg by Tim Radford, there did not seem to be a problem. Surely there was no way back from 54 for 5? The Pennington brothers, Albert and Arthur, had other ideas though. They defended with skill, and Albert began to play some fine strokes all round the wicket. Even though the brothers added 53 runs, Arthur (19) falling at 107 for 6, Marple were still hot favourites. Burns bided his time whilst Albert went to fine half century, 57, before falling lbw once more to Wylie who returned for a second spell. From 135 for 7, Burns took charge, hitting Greasley for two huge sixes, and also finding the boundary off Wylie and then Menzies when he returned. With good support from keeper Osborne, the runs flowed at an alarming rate from Marple’s point of view.  Even when Burns was yorked by Menzies for a brutal 55, the momentum was with Grappenhall. Sure enough, Osborne and Matthews both hit out bravely to secure a tight two wicket win with just one over remaining. Menzies with 4 for 52 was Marple’s most successful bowler, but the visitors deserve credit for pulling off an unlikely win after being dominated for two thirds of the game.

Next Saturday Marple visit Cheadle Hulme with a 1.00pm start.

Marple seconds made the long trip to Neston on the Wirral, but were defeated by seven wickets. On a beautiful batting surface 161 was not enough against the top of the league, and despite two battling spells from Jack Grundy, the visitors coasted home.

Marple legend Steve Worrall came out of retirement to help an under strength Marple thirds on Sunday. Also facing the Sunday third eleven premier league leaders Didsbury, Worrall came in at number four and hit 60 memorable runs out of a total of 142. This proved to be no real problem for Didsbury, who rattled along to an eight wicket win.

Marple Show True Ability on the Wirral!

Marple 242 for 7 (50 overs) 25 points beat Oxton 125 all out (44.1 overs) 4 points by 117 runs

At last Marple’s first eleven managed some cricket! The place to be was very definitely in the far west of the county at Oxton’s superb ground.  There can be few club grounds anywhere that can boast such a top class playing surface.  The outfield is like a beautiful smooth green carpet, and the wicket itself was firm and had good carry for the quicker bowlers as well as some turn for the quality spinner. Marple captain, Paul Wood went against the modern trend, and elected to bat first, hoping that his batsmen would respond to the occasion. It was to prove a positive decision.

When Mark Bennett had been bowled by Roberts for 7 and Jake Warner adjudged lbw to Fernando for 4, he may have had second thoughts. However, Wood himself joined Andrew Hall and the pair soon rescued Marple from a precarious position of 15 for 2. Wood showed admirable determination at the start of his innings, being content to let Hall be the dominant partner. Marple’s star opening bat did not look like a man who had batted only once since the 4^th of June. The weather of 2016 has been unkind to Marple, but Hall looked in prime form. Anything wayward was despatched to the fence, and when Roberts and first change bowler Fraser tested the middle of the pitch, they were ruthlessly put to the leg side boundary. Maybe the new restrictions on the bowlers overs in the league inhibits captains, but Oxton skipper Gibson did not introduce former Worcestershire slow armer Choudhry until the twenty second over. Maybe he reasoned that he could bowl throughout the rest of the innings. By saving the use of possibly his best bowler so late, much damage was done to the home side’s cause. Hall was imperious, stroking eight effortless fours, and Wood increasingly began to find fluency, lofting off spinner Shillinglaw over the top when Gibson brought in the field to try and keep Hall from the strike. By the time Choudhry was introduced, both players were in full flow, and the hundred stand came up in excellent time.  

Choudhry did manage to deceive Hall in flight and had him stumped for a terrific 72 at 132 for 3, but Jim Morgan at number five, walked to wicket full of intent. The scoring rate barely dropped as Morgan settled in quickly. Another brisk half century stand was posted, and even though Wood (64) was bowled at 190 for by the returning Fernando, Marple were not put off their stride. This was a first rate knock from Wood, balancing watchful defence with aggression. He knows the old virtue of “getting yourself in” and then making hay. Morgan’s innings of 42, made in exactly one hour at the crease, was a delight. Smart running between the wickets was interspersed with some powerful pulls and drives. Oxton’s bowlers toiled away manfully, but some lusty hitting from James Menzies, who smote Choudhry for a huge six, and some stylish drives from Ed Saxelby helped Marple to an excellent total of 242 for 7 at tea. Choudhry had 3 for 68 from 15 overs, and Fernando battled away for his 2 for 60.

Even with the dampish outfield having dried up as the sun eventually made an appearance, a victory target of 243 is a daunting one. James Menzies was certainly fired up for this game, and with Andy Wylie nagging away at the other end, Oxton got away to a sticky start. Both openers, Gibson and De Brabender, were caught behind by keeper Morgan off Menzies. Shillinglaw and Choudhry threatened a revival, but Menzies was on the mark in the field with a superb direct hit to run out Shillinglaw who had dug in for a patient 22. Wylie produced a beauty that nipped back to remove Choudhry (15) lbw, and Oxton were in trouble, behind the rate and the top four back in the hutch. The home side’s last chance came with the fifth wicket pairing of Crawley and Fernando. Although they posted a fifty stand, the winning post remained a vast distance away. Maybe they did not know whether to stick or twist, as Crawley was bowled for 31 in Menzies’ second spell, and then next ball, Fernando was caught by Menzies off the bowling of Ed Saxelby, who mixed a little waywardness with some useful deliveries in his short spell. The end was not long coming, as Wood switched his bowlers around. Menzies was “quicker than he looked” according to the home players on the balcony, and he finished things off to record a fine individual afternoon with 5 for 33 from 12.1 overs.  Greasley only took one late wicket, but he had to be watched with care, extracting some turn, and also using his arm ball to good effect. Like Andrew Hall, Wylie showed his quality and experience, not bowling a bad ball in his spell of 2 for 20 from 14 overs. This was a very welcome win for Marple, and showed what ability is there within the side when they can actually get out on the field in good conditions!

Marple are at home to Grappenhall next Saturday, 23^rdJuly, with a start time of 1.00pm.

The Marple weather hoodoo of 2016 continued as the second eleven’s game with Urmston was abandoned without a ball being bowled. Four out of the last five Saturdays, and six in all this season, have failed to produce any cricket at Bowden Lane, surely an unprecedented statistic.

Marple thirds were comfortable beaten by 105 runs at home to Bramhall last Sunday. Chasing a useful 192, they could only muster 87 all out. For Bramhall, Sam Baker produced the remarkable figures of 8 for 21 from only 11.4 overs

Another Saturday Another Washout!

The sixth game and the fifth at Marple, out of twelve this season was abandoned without a ball being bowled at Bowden Lane last Saturday. Marple and the visitors, Weaverham from mid Cheshire, each collected seven points. If this optimism is not too pronounced, Marple visit Wirrall club Oxton next Saturday. The micro climate in that part of the world should probably ensure some play.

Marple seconds could not lift the gloom as they were comfortably defeated in a rain reduced game at Toft.
It was a struggle for the Marple batsmen as they could only muster 119 for 5 from 39 overs against tight bowling. Matt Barrow with 40 not out held the innings together with good support from Andy Massey, in form this season, with 38.
Toft found no such problem scoring, and galloped to the winning post in only 24 overs, Akhil Shah, 35, and Paul Ashley, 42, leading the way in a five wicket win. Marple veteran spinners Andy Hayes and Rick Major fought an uphill battle with two wickets apiece in the losing cause.

Rains Have Final Say Once More!

Marple first eleven reached the halfway mark of the so called summer of 2016 last Saturday. Of eleven scheduled games, five have been either abandoned or cancelled, including four out of seven at Bowden Lane. Groundsman Mike Hibbert proclaimed that unless there are a number of consecutive dry days this week, then even next week's game against Weaverham is under threat. Torrential rain has fallen on many days during June this year, but Marple seems to have suffered particularly badly, with the square in a poor state. At least on this occasion, the umpires tried to get the game on. It was only after a third downpour that hope was extinguished.

Marple seconds game at Macclesfield was also affected by the weather. The game was reduced to 48 overs per side, and Marple totalled a respectable 171 for 9. Mike Fitzgerald, a very classy looking number seven, top scored with 48, and he was well supported by the in form Gary Cash, 37, and Jamie Massey 34. Further rain spoiled the chance of a good finish for either side, Macclesfield finishing on 90 for 5 and a drawn game. There were two wickets apiece for Matt Shelton and Andy Hayes.

A terrific performance saw Marple thirds thrash Stockport thirds by 100 runs at Cale Green on Sunday. Mark Nicholson led the way with a superb 75. He was ably assisted by Max Fitzgerald and Sam Stretton who both showed good temperament in making 20 each. On a tricky surface 163 for 8 looked a useful total.

A fiery opening burst from Jacob Combey helped reduce the home team to 29 for 4. They never recovered, with Combey taking 3 for 11, the wily Rick Major 3 for 14, Albert Connor 2 for 18 and Paul Roberts 1 for 7. Under Andy Gichero's calm leadership, the third eleven looked a good team, all enjoying each other's success. A day to cheer the Marple club in this rain soaked summer.


Fingers crossed for some sunshine this week!