Rampant Hyde Romp to Title!

Hyde 115 for 0 (16.4 overs) beat Marple 110 all out (42.2 overs) 0 points by ten wickets. 

Hyde were far too good for a Marple side that, despite its best intentions, was unable to mount a serious challenge as the home side coasted to the Cheshire County Premier League title. 

Mark Bennett won the toss at Werneth Low and elected to bat first on what looked to be an excellent pitch. Hyde have relied heavily on their opening bowlers Jason Whittaker and Matt Hanna this season. Not only have they been the club’s leading wicket takers, but run scoring opportunities for the batsmen have been at a premium. Today it was obvious that they were bowling to well thought out plans against their near neighbours. Andrew Hall was kept quiet, with many deliveries passing by the off stump, particularly from Hanna. Three early wickets fell, with Makin well caught at slip by Duffy, Morgan harshly adjudged lbw and Mummery caught behind to leave Marple 26 for 3. There then followed Marple’s only bright period of a miserable afternoon. Hall and Mark Bennett tried to repair the early damage, and they added 42 runs with sensible batting. However, Hall (28) was deceived by a slower delivery from Hanna and bowled at 68 for 4. This, after he had taken successive boundaries from the Aussie.

Subsequently, only Bennett, with a fine 43, provided any resistance against Hyde’s unstoppable momentum. It was a sorry procession for Marple, despite Jimmy Ormond finding the boundary on three occasions. 110 all out was a paltry score against Hyde’s top class batting line up on a tight ground with short boundaries. Mention should be made of Duffy’s superb one handed diving catch at slip to dismiss Barlow. This brought great applause from a decent sized crowd that had gathered. The excellent home bowlers Whittaker and Hanna finished with 6 for 56 and 4 for 49 respectively. 

Hyde were on no mood to poke around and accumulate the necessary runs. Today was their destiny, and they were going to put on the style of champions. Khalid Sawas and David Fitzsimmons were in blazing form, as Matt Whittaker in particular was made to suffer. Boundaries flowed all around the wicket from both players initially, but after the half century partnership was raised, Sawas took total command, seemingly hitting fours at will. He won the game for Hyde with an outrageous scoop shot for six into the pavilion, provoking loud cheers as a long awaited first Premier League title was confirmed. Sawas concluded on 75 not out, and loyal Hyde servant Fitzsimmons 31 not out as 115 for 0 wickets was reached after only 16.4 overs. Marple needed early wickets, but there were far too many loose deliveries served up to help Hyde on their way. 

Hyde have long wanted this championship. There are a number of players who have almost tasted success in previous seasons, but on this occasion the three main performers were each in their first seasons with the club. They are a fine side though, with a potent combination of discipline and flair propelling them to success this year. 

 For Marple, the season fell away badly in the last two weeks with heavy defeats against the top sides. As a result of accruing no points here, they slipped from fifth to joint eighth in the league.  However, with major improvements to the pavilion soon to begin there will most likely be a fresh feel to things in 2015. 

It was left to Marple seconds to restore some pride to the club as they comfortably defeated Hyde seconds by seven wickets at Bowden Lane. George Clarke produced a superb display of medium paced bowling to take 8 for 51 as Hyde were dismissed for 140. Clarke has relished having a more responsible role on the seconds this season, and he has kept improving with his hard work and application. This return was excellent reward. Despite a sticky start, two wickets falling for 25, Will Darby and Gary Cash gradually took control. Darby reached his half century first, and then Cash soon followed. There were fine strokes from both players all round the wicket. Cash was bowled for 56 when the scores were level, but Darby, with 53 not out, was still there as the winning runs came up, courtesy of four byes. 

The third team will still be playing in the Sunday Third Eleven Premier League in 2015. Results last week meant that relegation was no longer a possibility.

Hostile Henderson Undermines Marple!

Chester Boughton Hall 124 for 3 (24.3 overs) 25 points beat Marple 123 for 9 (40 overs) 5 points by 7 wickets.

A terrific spell of quick bowling from Queenslander Joshua Henderson propelled Chester to victory at Bowden Lane last Saturday. 

That curse of Saturday mornings at Marple this season, rain, once again interfered with a first team game. Persistent drizzle was still falling at the scheduled start time of 12.00 noon, but with use of the rope to remove surface water from the outfield, and the rain relenting, a game of 40 overs per side was agreed, beginning at 1.45 pm. Mark Bennett has lost more tosses than he has won this year, and sure enough, in helpful bowling conditions, he lost another one here. In what seemed no time at all, Marple were 20 for 4, all the wickets falling to Henderson. This powerfully built fast bowler has been the most potent threat in the league this season. In the earlier game between the two sides at Chester in dry late June, he tested the batsmen’s mettle with some short stuff. On this slower pitch he was still quick enough through the air, but bowled to a fuller length with great success. Andrew Hall was caught at cover, Makin was bowled, Morgan caught at slip and Mummery castled middle stump by a full delivery. At the other end, Jordan Clark bowled in support of Henderson, but with less attacking threat. The Lancashire T20 man had to be watched, but rarely threatened the stumps. 

A recovery of sorts was begun by Bennett and Wood. With the ball losing some of its hardness, and also becoming damp, they batted with composure, Bennett superbly pulling Clark for successive boundaries. They added 28 before Henderson eventually got one through Wood’s (15) defences. Jimmy Ormond was lbw next ball, and Henderson was probably eying up all ten wickets! However, Matt Whittaker prevented the hat trick, and in company with his skipper produced the home side’s best batting. The opening bowlers were eventually rested, and although the young spinners Williams and Killoran landed the ball well, there was little spin for either in these conditions. Thirty-seven runs were added, and a good recovery seemed possible. Bennett though, after making 38 excellent runs, flashed hard at change bowler Goodwin and was caught behind by Rowlands. It looked like curtains for Marple. However, the determined Whittaker was now well supported by Chris Barlow. Marple’s own Aussie saw to it that the full 40 overs were used, and also gave the home side something to bowl at. He struck Henderson for several boundaries when he returned for a second spell, and 34 useful runs were added for the eighth wicket. A well deserved half century eluded him as he lost the strike in the final over. Whittaker ended 49 not out in Marple’s 123 for 9 at the interval. Henderson had 7 for 50 from 14 high class overs, spoiled slightly by Whittaker at the end.

Faced with having to defend a modest score against such a talented line up, Marple needed a fast start. However, two chances went down before Chester had reached double figures. Rowlands was dropped at slip by Greasley at slip off Whittaker, the ball travelling at a fairly comfortable height. Then in Wylie’s next over, the same batsman was dropped from a skier at mid off. Barlow seemed to have the ball, but then it fell from his grasp. These let offs seemed to take the edge of Marple’s effort in the field, and both Rowlands and Goodwin found the boundary with some regularity. This lethargy was still apparent even after three excellent catches that reduced Chester to 72 for 3 with two new batsmen in. Firstly Morgan took a stunner, inches from the turf to remove Rowlands (22), and Mark Makin safely pouched a steepler to dismiss the classy Goodwin (31) off Wood. Then Greasley had Jordan Clark (29), also caught from another skier by Barlow. This, after Clark had harshly dealt with the Marple offer, smiting four fours and a huge six over the pavilion. Without further addition to the score of 72, Law was dropped at mid on by Whittaker from a firmly struck drive off Wood who was proving a handful for the batsmen. Marple just didn’t seem to believe a miracle was possible. After a number of alarms, Law (21 not out) and Ross Dixon (13 not out) took Chester to victory in the 25^th over. 

Chester are a formidable side, but in order for them to win the league this season, they will have to hope that Marple can produce a much better performance and defeat leaders Hyde at Werneth Low in the final game of the season next Saturday. Chester, who added the Cheshire Cup to their collection on Sunday with a ten wicket demolition of newly promoted Macclesfield, are at home to already relegated Oxton.

Marple seconds chased leather at Filkins Lane Chester on Saturday. The home side rattled up 258 for 7 in the 50 overs. A dispirited Marple side were routed for only 90 in reply.

Honours Even at Parkgate!

An excellent game of cricket, with a tense finish, saw Marple and Neston draw at the scenic Parkgate ground on Saturday. 

Yet another wet Friday evening and Saturday morning in this season of 2014 saw a delay to the start of play at Neston. The game was reduced to 50 overs per side, and Mark Bennett asked his opposite number, David Hurst, to bat on winning the toss. Matt Whittaker was on the mark as usual, and he managed to beat the bat on a number of occasions, the ball often carrying to keeper Makin at waist height or above. Paul Wood, once again, provided useful support, although on this occasion, despite testing the Neston openers Smith and Williams, the wickets eluded him. Williams (12) was lbw to Whittaker at 17, and then Smith (13) was well caught by Jake Warner at mid off when he mistimed a drive. Whittaker was proving to be a handful for the home side, but skipper Hurst and his partner, the hard hitting Will Evans, began a fine partnership for the third wicket, first with excellent running between the wickets, and then, when they had settled, with attractive strokeplay. Evans was not afraid to take the aerial route, with lofted driven boundaries. Hurst was happier to rotate the strike, and then put away the loose deliveries when they arrived. He swept Greasley, who replaced Wood for fours to the leg side boundary. Marple were doing well in the field without being at their clinical best. Whittaker was rested after a fine, long opening spell of 2 for 27 from 12 overs. It was tough for first change Chris Barlow to bowl at two set batsmen, and Evans was harsh on the young seamer, Barlow being removed from the attack after only three overs that cost him 23 runs. 

Andy Greasley was not quite at his best, but he battled away valiantly today. His persistence was rewarded when the dangerous Evans (35) was safely caught by Jimmy Ormond at slip at 91 for 3. At this point, Hurst attempted to take the game away from Marple, whist the experienced Richard Wilkinson played himself in. The pair added 38 quick runs, Hurst smiting two sixes, before Greasley bowled the home captain for a fine 52 at 129 for 4. Greasley picked up a couple of further wickets before Ash Davies joined Wilkinson. Once again, the running between the wickets was excellent, and although Jimmy Ormond made the odd delivery behave alarmingly, consistency eluded him on this occasion. Wilkinson (46 not out) struck at the right moments to take Neston to, what seemed to players and spectators, an above par score of 197 for 6 after the 50 overs. He memorably hit Ormond for two successive sixes over the pavilion. Davies (23 not out) was excellent in support. For Marple, Greasley stuck to his guns and finished with 4 for 67 from 17 overs.  

Neston have a more than useful seam attack, and former Cheshire opening bowler, the tall Chris Finegan was keen to get the ball in his hands, believing that there was assistance for him on this pitch. He soon had Crisall (2) caught behind by keeper Williams with Marple just 5 for 1. Mark Makin and Jake Warner both looked secure though, and the pacy Davis was put away for boundaries by both players. Wilkinson replaced Davis, and was promptly driven gloriously through extra cover by Makin (18) for four. The batsman attempted to repeat the shot a few deliveries later, but missed and lost his leg stump, much to the delight of the bowler. Andrew Hall, in next, likes batting at Neston, and he played the two shots of day. The first was a classical extra cover drive off Wilkinson from the first ball he received. This shot drew gasps of admiration from the visiting supporters, and a look of disbelief from the bowler, a former Cheshire colleague of Hall. Hall then played responsibly alongside the emerging Warner, who was immaculate in defence and timed the ball sweetly when playing an attacking stroke. It was something of a surprise when Warner (18) edged the accurate Finegan to the keeper at 54 for 3. Mark Bennett (8) did not really settle on this occasion, and he too edged Finegan, this time to slip where Sykes took the catch. Marple were now tottering at 68 for 4. Paul Wood was a commanding presence at number six though. He was solid in defence, and he and Hall began to rebuild the Marple response. The cricket was of a high standard, with Hurst rotating his bowlers once Finegan was rested after a high class spell of 3 for 21 from 13 overs. Both Wilkinson and slow left armer Stimson had to be watched carefully, the pitch offering assistance to both bowlers. Hall was in top class touch, and Wood too began to look increasingly impressive. The fifty stand came up after sensible application, and when Hall sensed the time to accelerate, he played the second of his shots of the day, and effortless six over long off from Stimson, the ball sailing into the road. Hurst had, by now, gone totally onto the defensive with five men on the boundary edge for all bowlers. This was slightly surprising, as well though his side fielded, he took away the chance to pick up wickets, instead, waiting for a batsmen error. It looked as though he would be happy with a draw. With just twenty needed, Hall mistimed a sweep from Stimson, and was brilliantly caught at deep square leg by Sykes. His fine innings of 69 showed that he still has few equals in the league. Ormond then helped Wood add 13 more before he was bowled by Stimson. Eight were needed from Wilkinson’s final over with Wood on strike. No run was possible from the first ball, but the second, a wide delivery was superbly stopped by Williams. However, non striker Whittaker charged down the pitch in an attempt to steal a single. Wood looked up, aghast at his partner’s actions, then vainly tried to make his ground at the bowler’s end. He had no chance, and was run out for 51, an innings full of character and excellent strokeplay. Although Whittaker and Pearson managed six runs from the final four deliveries, Marple finished on 196 for 7, and a nailbiting draw. 

This was a terrific match, and the closest of the season. Neston’s superb ground fielding ultimately gained them the draw after the high class partnership of 109 for the fifth wicket by Hall and Wood threatened victory for Marple.

 Marple may not be able to win the league this season, but they can have a say in it. Next week they entertain champions, second placed Chester Boughton Hall at Bowden Lane, and then in the final match, travel the short distance to league leaders Hyde. Both games start at 12.00 noon.
 

A vintage knock of 71 not out from the evergreen Gary Cash took Marple seconds to victory over Neston seconds on Saturday in a game reduced to forty over per side. Cash was at his savage best as he helped his team overhaul a total of 138 for victory in only 27 overs. Skipper Andy Wild, with 25 not out added useful support. Earlier, George Clarke with 5 for 34, and Greg Marsland 3 for 39 had been excellent in bowling out the visitors relatively cheaply. 

A demob happy Marple fourth team were soundly beaten by nine wickets by Hale Barns thirds on Sunday at Bowden Lane. This solitary defeat should not take too much gloss over the fourth team’s season though. Rick Major could not inspire his team today despite making a terrific 57 out of 139 all out. Only Andy Gichero, with 24, was able to give any support. The visitors cruised to victory with plenty of overs to spare. After the game, Major was presented with the champion’s shield to great applause.  Once again, many congratulations on the title and promotion! 

James Hirst’s third eleven ended their season with a ten wicket thrashing at Sunday premier league champions Cheadle. The side were bowled out for 134, David Brook top scoring with 44. Cheadle’s openers knocked off the runs in quick time to leave Marple sweating for a couple more weeks before knowing their fate for next season.

Seventh Heaven for Marple!

Marple 120 for 3 (38.1 overs) 25 points beat Oxton 116 all out (43.4 overs) 1 point by seven wickets.

Win number seven of the 2014 season was the most welcome of all, as it pretty much ensured premier league cricket for Marple in 2015.

Mark Bennett won a crucial toss, and his opening attack of Matt Whittaker and Paul Wood did him proud. Wood, opening up in place of the injured Wylie, was in particularly determined mood. He soon had the important wickets of Cashin and Worcestershire man Choudhry. With Whittaker his usual accurate self, struggling Oxton could make no headway. However, from the depths of 24 for 6, Gayon Fernando (45) and James O'Neill (26) added 70 precious runs for the seventh wicket. Marple's batting in the second half of this season has been of the Jekyll and Hyde variety, so the visitors would have been glad to post a score of 116 all out, despite leaving eleven and a bit overs unused. For Marple, Wood was excellent with 3 for 18 from ten overs. He was well supported by Whittaker with 2 for 23 from 13, and Andy Greasley, back amongst the wickets, with 2 for 11 from 11 miserly overs. Jake Warner also boosted his confidence with two run outs, whilst stand in keeper James Morgan had two good catches behind the stumps.

The home batting performance was in reverse to the previous week at Bramhall. Openers, Morgan and Crisall fell early, with the reliable Fernando on the mark as usual. Alex Money did a useful job in support, and the pressure was on Marple. Skipper Bennett wisely kept himself and Wood in reserve today, knowing that his batting line up was inexperienced with Andrew Hall and Mark Makin absent.

Jake Warner and Andy Mummery both grasped the situation though, which was the most pleasing aspect for Marple. The early jitters of 14 for 2 were gradually replaced with relief as 31 runs were added, the ball gradually losing its hardness. Mummery fell lbw to Fernando at 45 for 3, but unfortunately for lowly Oxton, this only brought a determined Mark Bennett to the crease. The Marple skipper, buoyed by the fielding performance and Warner's resolve, gradually took command. The two former Loughborough men shared in the most important stand of the season for Marple. Adding an unbroken 75 for the third wicket, they took Marple to victory, with a possible 28 overs remaining. Warner, in his best knock for the club ended 50 not out, and Bennett 47 not out.

This was an excellent win for Marple against a revitalised Oxton. The defeat however, leaves the visitors in serious relegation trouble. Next week, Marple visit the other Wirral club Neston, in what is always an eagerly awaited fixture. Marple are up to fifth in the premier league.

Marple seconds were defeated by five wickets at Macclesfield on Saturday. Although Mark Nicholson, skipper Andy Wild and Joe Yates all reached the thirties, a score of 140 was never enough. George Clarke, with three wickets toiled hard for Marple, but the home side gained a comfortable victory. In Wild's defence, his side has been decimated with cry offs in recent weeks, and there has been no chance of any continuity whatsoever. The twos are in the bottom half of the table, but there are no worries regarding relegation.

Marple thirds put up the club's highest total of the season at Bowden Lane on Sunday with a massive 254 for 8, Will Darby 98 not out, and Andy Massey 86. However, Toft romped home by nine wickets in a batting exhibition from their young players. 255 for 1 was superb reply by the visitors, showing the club's faith in budding talent to be yielding success.

Rick Major deserves every accolade for leading his fourth team to the Cheshire Sunday East Division Two title and promotion. Inevitably, the fourths have had a large turnover of players, but Major has given players a game and created a mixture of competitiveness and enjoyment of the game for its own sake. Players, young and not so young, have all contributed to a first class season. Bravo everyone involved!

Bramhall Spin Twins Too Hot To Handle!

Bramhall 154 all out (55 overs) 25 points beat Marple 92 all out (32.2 overs) 4 points by 62 runs.

Marple suffered a dispiriting collapse against Bramhall off spinners, Simon Wilkinson and Vishai Tripathi on Saturday. This, after they had put up a fine performance in the field to dismiss the home side for 154. 

A strong and cool breeze from the northwest greeted the players at Bramhall’s picturesque ground, and it felt as though autumn had come early. Nick Cantello won the toss and elected to bat first in testing conditions. Home groundsman, Richard Cragg had done well to prepare a good track after wet conditions earlier in the week and the outfield was also in top class condition. Although Matt Begbie took a couple of early boundaries from Andy Wylie, it was Marple’s excellent opening attack that soon got on top. Wylie is always at the stumps, and today the top three Bramhall batsmen were all palpably lbw to this excellent seam bowler. First it was star man Begbie (9), and then Tripathi (0) first ball. The battling Hughes (13) went at 45 for 3

When Jamieson (3) was yorked by Whittaker at 48 for 4, Marple scented blood. However, Lancashire Academy and county second eleven player Daniel Lamb was carefully playing himself in. First with skipper Cantello (15), he steadied the ship. Then he received useful support from lower order batsmen Kershaw, Reynolds and Wilkinson. Lamb is a talented player, and two shots in particular showed his pedigree. One was a superbly timed on drive from Barlow, and the other an effortless six, stroked over long on as he shimmied down the pitch to Greasley. He also played a couple of cheeky reverse sweeps, but trying a third off Jimmy Ormond, he was brilliantly stumped by keeper Makin. His fine innings of 62 was far and away the highest of the day. Bramhall were probably fairly happy with 154 at tea in demanding batting conditions. For Marple, Wylie had 3 for 36, Ormond 3 for 25, in a useful late spell, and Whittaker 2 for 31. Mark Makin also had three victims behind the stumps, his taking of the ball immaculate throughout. 

When Morgan and Makin despatched some wayward early bowling from West and Lamb, there was no hint of the calamity to come. Morgan drove gloriously through the covers, and both players pulled some short deliveries fiercely to the boundary. Forty runs came up in rapid time, and the home supporters began to wear some anxious looks. However, as soon as Wilkinson was introduced, the whole tone of the game changed. He dropped right onto a taxing length, never quite there for the batsmen to drive. Makin (19) was caught at slip and then similar to last week, his partner Morgan (21) fell soon afterwards, again caught at slip off Lamb. Marple were 46 for two, but with two in form men at the crease in Hall and Bennett. However, a third brilliant one handed slip catch by Cantello saw the back of the Marple skipper. Wood and Hall then looked secure as Tripathi replaced Lamb. Hall (15) seemed determined not to let the former Northants man settle. Unfortunately, he mistimed an extravagant drive, and was caught at extra cover by Jamieson at 71 for 4. The recalled James Crisall then ran himself out. He was keen to try and keep the score ticking, but he picked the wrong man to take on as Lamb picked up and then brilliantly hit the stumps at the bowler’s end with a direct hit. Ormond then became the second former county player to be dismissed first ball when he was lbw to Tripathi. Marple’s last hope, Wood (10) was then bowled by Tripathi at 78 for 7. A couple of lusty blows from Greasley and Wylie did not hold up Bramhall for long. All ten wickets had fallen for only 52, as a dismal collapse to only 92 all out was completed in the 33^rd over. Tripathi, putting his first ball dismissal behind him, had 5 for 24 from only 9 overs, and Wilkinson, hardly bowling a single loose delivery, 3 for 17 from 13.2. 

This was a depressing defeat for Marple at the hands of old rivals Bramhall.  They will hope to bounce back at home next week to Oxton, start 12.30pm. 

Marple seconds lost by 8 wickets at home to Didsbury to complete a miserable Saturday for the club. Only Andy Bell, with 40, was able to get going in a disappointing total of 122. The visitors cruised home for the loss of only two wickets. 

The third team’s game with Nantwich was called off without a ball being bowled on Sunday after heavy rain.

Fourth team game also called of due to the weather. 

Stubborn Panda Frustrates Dominant Marple!

Marple 236 for 9 (55 overs) 14 points drew with Urmston 187 for 8 (55 overs) 7 points

A rearguard defensive innings from Urmston’s Sumit Panda kept a resurgent Marple side at bay at Moorside Road Urmston last Saturday.

On winning the toss, Marple skipper Mark Bennett elected to bat first on a glorious early August afternoon. The Urmston ground looked in superb condition, with the outfield resembling a bowling green, and the wicket firm, but having a greenish colour to it. Mark Makin’s opening partner today was James Morgan, and he was able to watch a fair number of deliveries from Urmston skipper, and Cheshire opening bowler, Adam Sydall, pass harmlessly by the off stump. Makin then eagerly tucked into some erratic bowling from Sydall’s partner Sumit Panda, effortlessly driving him twice through the covers.

Makin was the dominant batsman in a good opening stand for the visitors, and Sydall stood in mid pitch looking in disbelief, as the Marple keeper took him for two boundaries in an over with quality strokes. Morgan was never fluent, surviving a couple of appeals from Panda, but he hung in there to support Makin as the fifty was raised in good time. Sydall was bowling in an essentially defensive manner, with a field of seven on the off and just two on the leg. He made little attempt to attack the stumps, being content to wait for a mistake from the batsmen. Panda had been inconsistent, and after five overs that cost him 29 runs, he was replaced by the young leg spinner Matt Parkinson. Parkinson is in confident mood at present, and he has enjoyed recent success with Staffordshire and Lancashire’s second eleven. He was also celebrating his call up to the England under 17 squad, a terrific achievement. Parkinson settled well, but his first wicket was a fortunate one, as Makin pulled a long hop to mid wicket where Downes took a good catch. A fluent 40 runs this for the back to form Makin. There was no luck attached to Parkinson’s second wicket though, as the battling Morgan (16) edged a beautifully pitched leg spinner to slip one run later. Marple were 58 for 2, and with two new batsmen at the crease.

Andrew Hall then continued his good form, and skipper Bennett carefully played himself in. Runs began to flow again from both batsmen, and a good travelling Marple support began to enjoy the best partnership of the afternoon. The pair added 97 excellent runs in quick time, with Hall being dominant against Parkinson, hoisting a huge six, and cleverly picking out the gaps in the field. Bennett also cut twice to the cover boundary, and a huge Marple total beckoned. However, both batsmen would have been disappointed at being dismissed after reaching fine half centuries. First, Hall (51) was well caught by Jackson at long off, trying to hit Parkinson for a further six, at 155 for 3, then Bennett (54) misread the length from Sydall’s replacement, Jibran Khan, and was bowled at 172 for 4. Paul Wood, mixing defence with aggression then played a fine knock of 41, although his partners at the other end did not always give him the best support. Wickets fell steadily, and Marple probably felt that they were about par with 236 for 9 at tea on a normally high scoring ground. For Urmston, off spinner Khan was the pick with 5 for 58 from 16 overs, always needing to be watched with care. Parkinson kept going valiantly, ending with 4 for 88 from 21 overs.

On the resumption, Callum Turner looked to be in good touch as he took early boundaries off both Whittaker and Wylie. However, both bowlers soon found a testing line and length, showing that there was movement to be had on this pitch if the old fashioned virtues of attacking the stumps were followed. Wylie struck first, producing a beauty to have the fluent Turner caught behind by Makin for 29 at 34 for 1.  Turrell did not last long, being comprehensively bowled by the same bowler at 42 for 2. Whittaker got in on the act when Makin took another catch to remove the struggling Downes at 52 for 3. Panda then joined Lewis Jackson, and they looked to rebuild the innings. Jackson (25) seemed to be finding his feet when a sensational slip catch from Jimmy Ormond did for him. Jackson aimed a full blooded drive off Whittaker, and the ball flew quickly, inches from the ground. Ormond brilliantly caught the ball right handed as the goodish crowd were looking at the boundary edge. Urmston were now 67 for 4 and in some trouble. Maybe this dismissal coloured Panda’s thinking during the remainder of the innings, for after hitting Greasley for a couple of early fours, he barely played a shot in anger for the next hour and a half. Dickinson (20) played a few bold strokes, but the awaited onslaught never came. 

Bennett shuffled his bowling attack, and all the visiting bowlers did a good job, with Wylie ending with 3 for 58, and Whittaker 2 for 58 from 18 overs of pace and aggression. It was only in the final few overs that Panda (71 not out) unleashed a flurry of boundaries as Marple set ultra attacking fields in an attempt to prise out the last couple of wickets.

This was a strange innings from Panda. One cannot question his undoubted class, but with the Urmston lower order all looking to be useful batters, his early decision to shut up shop was difficult to fathom.

It was, however, a welcome return to form for Marple. Although none of the batsmen went on to a really big score, the top five looked in good order, and the Marple seamers outbowled those from Urmston. Next week they have another away fixture at Bramhall, 12.30pm start.

Marple seconds thrashed Urmston seconds by nine wickets at Bowden Lane. The visitors were routed for only 82, with Greg Marsland having five wickets, and Matthew Shelton three. Although opener George Pearson fell early in the reply, James Crisall and Jake Warner made light of the target with 30 odd apiece. Marple reached 86 for 1 in only the 16^th over. This result further consolidated Andy Wild’s team in the top half of the second eleven premier league.

Torrential rain caused the abandonment of both the third and fourth team’s fixture on Sunday.

Double Frustration For Marple as Rain Intervenes!

Marple v Nantwich match abandoned, both sides 7 points each.

Marple suffered a double dose of anguish after they had agreed to an early abandonment of their home fixture with lowly Nantwich at the scheduled start time of 12.30pm last Saturday.

Firstly, after less than two hours, warm sunshine had rendered the ground fit for play. This was at odds with the weather forecast, which had told of persistent afternoon rain. Secondly, Marple will have been frustrated that an abject Grappenhall side was being soundly thrashed by Hyde at Werneth Low, less than four miles up the road. This means that any hope, however faint, of challenging the top teams for the league this season has almost certainly gone. The next four games are against sides below them, and mid table respectability will now be the aim. Next Saturday they visit unpredictable Urmston, with a 12.30pm start.

Marple seconds began their game late due to heavy rain in the return fixture at Nantwich. After Marple had battled to 53 for 4 from 19 overs, a torrential downpour put an end to proceedings.

Another Fifty Point Sunday as Fourths Close in on Title!

The wet Saturday behind them, Marple’s Sunday teams both put in excellent performances to cheer the club after the previous day’s annoyance.

At home to Bramhall, Luke Greasley was the star with a fantastic 117 in Marple third eleven’s commanding total of 234 for 9. Luke was at his imperious best, bringing up his century with a superb straight six, dispatched out of the ground. This, after Bramhall’s useful opening attack had reduced Marple to 47 for 4. In Bramhall’s reply of 158 all out, all the home bowlers showed up well, particularly skipper Hirst with three wickets, and promising legger Paul Roberts and Callum Jones with two apiece.

There would appear to be no stopping Rick Major’s fourth team picking up the Sunday East Division Two title this season, after they hammered their nearest rivals Bredbury by 96 runs on Sunday. Marple 179, and Bredbury 83 all out. Major’s mix of youth and experience has proved to be unbeatable this season, with Daniel (DD)Davies man of the match, his 29 not out, at number ten, being followed up with 3 for 24 opening the bowling. Two youngsters also caught the eye, with Lewis Braddock top scoring with 37, and the increasingly impressive Tom Travis returning remarkable figures of 4 for 5 in the Bredbury innings. 

Alderley Too Good For Marple!

Alderley Edge 261 for 9 (55 overs) 25 points beat Marple 100 all out (29.4 overs) 4 points by 161 runs

On a glorious July Saturday, Marple were humbled at Moss Lane Alderley Edge by the huge margin of 161 runs. This, after skipper Mark Bennett had asked the home side to bat first. 

The Marple attack managed to keep a lid on proceedings for the first part of the afternoon, with Paul Wood doing a good job by picking up a couple of early wickets, including Cheshire man Calum Rowe. Former Lancashire opener Mark Currie held the innings together with Adam Worrall though, and they added 81 for the third wicket. Marple then looked to be gaining the ascendancy as wickets fell at regular intervals to leave the home side on 151 for 7. There was a maiden first team wicket for Chris Barlow on his debut when he bowled Worrall for 46, and Greasley did likewise, cleaning up Currie for 45. However, the decisive stand of the match between the in form Foreman (64) and Matt Whittaker’s Melbourne colleague Simon O’Brien (59 not out), added 97 for the eighth wicket.  This took the game away from Marple, and a score of 261 for 9 was way above par after a promising start for the visitors. 

After tea, Marple never remotely threatened to challenge this demanding total. James Morgan, with 40, played a lone hand as Marple were bundled out for only 100 in less than thirty overs. For the dominant home side, O’Brien followed up his half century with three top order wickets, and Charlie Reid polished off the tail with a remarkable 4 for 9. 

A heavy defeat this for Marple, and they will need to improve over the coming weeks, starting with a home game against Nantwich next Saturday, 12.30pm start. They remain fifth in the premier league. 

Marple seconds had the better of a drawn game in an excellent game of cricket against Alderley seconds at Bowden Lane on Saturday. A top class batting effort saw Marple reach 219 for 6 after 50 overs, Mark Nicholson 30, George Pearson 30, Andy Wild 53, Gary Cash 48 and Ryan Lindsay 33. Alderley’s last pair of David Johnson and Katie Hazeldine just held on for the draw at 201 for 9, with evergreen left arm spinner Andy Hayes taking 5 for 42. The seconds continue to consolidate their position in the second eleven premier division. 

It was a superb Sunday for Marple as the thirds and fourths both registered victories against their Hyde counterparts. A great team effort saw the threes knock off 237 for 7 to win by three wickets and five overs to spare at Werneth Low. In Hyde’s 236 for 5, James Hirst had 3 for 40, and then in the reply, Mark Nicholson top scored with 56, with David Brook also reaching 50 and Luke Greasley 39. 

In the fourth team’s straightforward eight wicket win, Daniel (DD) Davies had three wickets as Hyde were bowled out for 96. Mike Smith, Paul Roberts and Ben Smith also had two wickets each. In Marple’s 97 for 2, Matt Leech had 41 not out, and stand in skipper Andy Gichero 30 not out. The team remain comfortably top of the league.

Marple Back to Winning Ways at Bowdon!

Marple 136 for 6 (39.3 overs) 25 points beat Bowdon 134 for 8 (55 overs) 4 points by four wickets 

Marple completed a league double over Bowdon with an ultimately comfortable win at South Downs Road on Saturday.

Marple have four of the most accurate bowlers in the league this season, and although openers Whittaker and Wylie were wicketless in the game, they put the Bowdon batsmen, Ball and Tipton, under pressure. 54 runs were added for the first wicket, but Bowdon were behind the clock. Wylie bowled seven overs for only twelve runs, and Whittaker conceded just 23 from his nine. Veteran spin twins Greasley and Ormond then took control of the remainder of the home innings. Ball and Tipton both reached the twenties, but no other batsman was able to make much headway against Greasley in particular. The master craftsman got through 20 overs and finished with the remarkable figures of 5 for 21 with ten maidens. Jimmy Ormond was a little more expensive, but still returned 3 for 64 from 19 overs. The Bowdon lower order showed some resolve to ensure the side batted the full 55 overs for a battling 134 for 8. 

With Mark Makin absent, and Jonny Marshall having spent 55 overs doing a good job as stand in wicket keeper, Marple opened up with Whittaker and Warner. They both fell for seven apiece, but Andrew Hall is back to top form again. He produced, by a long way, the day’s best batting performance with 53 classy runs, being, once again, in total control. First with Mark Bennett (12), and then Paul Wood (21) he took the reply to 89 for four when he was adjudged lbw to the promising Tully. Marple suffered a few jitters along the way, but Andy Mummery (15 not out) and Marshall (6 not out) saw the side over the line in the fortieth over. For Bowdon Tully had 3 for 23 and skipper Edwards 2 for 56. 

A welcome victory this for Marple, and the first league win in four weeks. Next Saturday they entertain Toft who have been on a good run recently, 12.30 start. 

Marple seconds also returned to winning ways with a fine 38 run victory against Cheadle at Bowden Lane on Saturday. After James Crisall fell to the first ball of the game, the innings was rescued by a gutsy knock of 45 from stand in skipper Tim Radford. He received useful support from Joe Cash who made 21. Matthew Shelton and Greg Marsland both reached double figures to ensure that a competitive total of 170 for 9 was reached after the full 50 overs. Ives had 4 for 56 for Cheadle. When Cheadle replied, Chris Barlow bowled with pace and hostility to take two early wickets. With the spinners, Cash and Hayes, then exerting control, Cheadle never threatened the Marple score. Radford sensibly brought Barlow back to clean up the tail, and victory by the margin of 38 runs was achieved after 39 overs. Barlow had the excellent figures of 4 for 20 with Cash and Hayes collecting two wickets apiece. Samuels with 39 was top score for the visitors in their total of 132.

Rick Windsor returned to action with a match winning 52 for the thirds against a good Middlewich third eleven on Sunday at Bowden Lane on Sunday. Middlewich reached 170 with Callum Jones taking five wickets for Marple. The home side got away to a sticky start, but Windsor, first with support from David Brook (20) and then Tom Reeve (40 not out) saw the side home. He was out with twelve runs required, but Reeve boldly hit the winning runs to ensure a four wicket win. 

Rick Major’s table topping fourth team made it a 100 point weekend for Marple when they defeated Woodford thirds by 25 runs. Harry Greasley with 42 was the batting hero as he rescued the Marple innings when they had subsided to 82 for 8. Harry was then the leading wicket taker with three, as Woodford were bowled out for 117. Major and Chris Lees also had two wickets each.

Grappenhall Prevail in Tight Finish!

Grappenhall 198 for 9 (42.2 overs) 25 points beat Marple 195 for 7 (50 overs) 10 points by one wicket. 

A strange game of cricket at Bowden Lane on Saturday saw the visitors complete a league double over Marple with victory by the narrowest of margins. 

Richard Green won an important toss for Grappenhall, and asked Marple to bat first in what were to prove the most testing batting conditions of the day. Overnight rain meant that the game was reduced to 50 overs per side.  Josh McClelland and left arm seamer Sam Guest were right on the spot immediately, extracting movement and bounce.  Batting was a tough business early on as the heavy rain of the preceding eighteen hours had made conditions bowler friendly. Mark Makin grafted hard to see off the new ball, but Jonny Marshall got one from McClelland that lifted nastily off a length. He was caught behind by Grappenhall’s Cumberland wicketkeeper Parkinson. Enter at number three, Andrew Hall. Hall has had limited opportunities this season, but today he looked in prime form. As the sun removed any remaining dampness from the pitch, Hall took total charge despite losing Makin (10) to McClelland and Bennett (0) lbw to Guest when the score reached 23. The Marple outfield was like a fine green carpet, and Hall found the boundary with increasing regularity, although Guest continued with his pinpoint accuracy. Hall memorably hit Guest for a straight six in one of the few scoring strokes conceded by him.  First change bowler Barnes, a six feet eight inch giant was taken apart by Hall with exquisite boundaries all round the wicket. Barnes’ final over went for 18 runs including an effortlessly hooked six. 

Paul Wood began his innings in support of Hall, blossoming as the afternoon went on, and the sun warmed the ground. After Hall, in a superb innings of 77 that included 11 fours and 3 sixes, chipped a full toss from McClelland to Bodha at mid on, Wood (72) came into his own. He had helped Hall add 103 for the fourth wicket, and now took charge, hitting 13 fours of his own.  After he was out caught on the long off boundary, Jake Warner and Matt Whittaker added 22 useful late runs. Marple ended on 195 for 7 at tea and a competitive total. 

The second half of the game was dominated by two Australians. For Marple it was Matt Whittaker, the left arm paceman who bowled with hostility throughout his 15 overs. He had the dangerous McCoy caught behind by Makin to the first ball he received, and then, in his second over, Parkinson was caught in the gully by Hall with the score at 23 for 2. With Wylie absent today, Bennett opted to use Greasley as Whittaker’s opening partner. Whittaker yorked Roylance (17} at 46 for 3, and then Greasley, who had to toil hard this afternoon, caught and bowled Pennington (29) at 88 for 4. Marple may have felt that they were favourites at this stage, but McClelland, the Australian who has been the scourge of Marple this season, had other ideas. With Bodha applying himself well, McClelland began to dominate the home bowlers. He hoisted Greasley for six, and then when Ormond went around the wicket, despatched him for sixteen runs in an over. Grappenhall were romping to victory. However, Whittaker returned for a second spell, and looked even quicker than with the new ball. Short, nasty deliveries accounted for Bodha (28) and McClelland a quickfire 53. Marple were right back in it. However, Barnes made amends for his bowling with a brave 27 batting at eight.  In attempting another audacious stroke he skied the ball only for Makin to take a superb catch, and give Whittaker his seventh wicket.  At 189 for 9 it was anybody’s game, but Baxter finally cut Greasley away for four to give the visitors their one wicket win. 

This was a disappointing defeat for Marple. They had three of the game’s four best players in Hall, Wood and Whittaker who had 7 for 70. McClelland though, was once again the star for Grappenhall taking 5 for 83, and he received useful support from a youthful middle order in his hard hit and decisive 53. 

Marple drop to sixth in the league, and visit Bowdon next Saturday, 12.30pm start. 

Marple seconds avoided feat at Grappenhall, but cannot have been happy with a below par display. Despite losing early wickets, the home side posted a commanding 233 for 8. Marple lost both openers with only 4 runs on the board, and although Gary Cash made a valiant 38, it was left to Andy Bell with 34 not out to see out a losing draw. 

On Sunday Marple thirds were routed at Urmston. Wayward early bowling was despatched, and only skipper Hirst with 3 for 13 from 12 excellent overs was able to rein things in. A horror show with the bat saw the team rolled over for only 56 in eighteen overs. This on a blameless pitch and with an outfield of pristine quality. 

It was left to three Marple veterans with a combined age in excess of over 160 years to oversee a victory for the fourths on a tricky weekend for the club! Cheshire over 60’s captain Chris Lees had four wickets in Ashton on Mersey’s 175 all out. In the reply, Mike Booth with 40, and skipper Rick Major 49 not out, were the batting heroes in a fine four wicket win.

Lower Order Battles to Draw Against League Leaders

Hyde 177 all out (51.4 overs) 11 points drew with Marple 156 for 9 (58 overs) 6 points 

A determined effort from Marple’s lower order, particularly Andy Mummery and Matt Whittaker, helped Marple to a draw against Hyde at Bowden Lane on Saturday. This, after they had been in trouble at 92 for 7. 

On a cool, overcast late June afternoon, Hyde skipper Berry elected to bat first on winning the toss. Marple got off to an excellent start with Berry run out for 2 and then Andy Wylie having Tipper lbw for a duck soon afterwards. Cheshire skipper James Duffy never really settled, and played a number of extravagant shots possibly trying to remove the threatening Wylie from the attack. Duffy reached 22, but then was brilliantly caught at slip by his county predecessor Andrew Hall off the excellent Wylie, the score at 56 for 3. Hyde relied for their runs today on the two stalwarts, Brierley and Fitzsimmons. Both players showed their experience, and mixed defence with good running. They also put away the loose deliveries to the boundary when the opportunity arose. Brierley was strong through the off side, and Fitzsimmons swept with exquisite timing. He was quite severe on Eliot Young, who had replaced Whittaker at the bottom end.  Young did not bowl badly, but he was up against a very canny player. 

It is difficult to praise Andy Greasley too much for his bowling at present. The veteran spinner, once of Leicestershire and then Cheshire can have no peers in the art of off spin bowling within the league this season.  He seems to have the ball on a string, and his control and variation caused all the Hyde batsmen problems. Brierley was deceived in flight and stumped by Makin soon after reaching a fine half century.  Danny Williams did not give Greasley sufficient respect, and was comprehensively bowled for one.  At 121 for 5, Hyde were unravelling. However, Jason Whittaker is a player choc full of skill and experience, and he batted carefully against Greasley. Fitzsimmons completed a fine fifty, but was then well caught by Bennett off Matt Whittaker attempting an untypical drive. Hyde’s Whittaker and Fitton battled to take the score to 170, before Greasley and the returning Wylie wrapped the innings up for 177 in the 52^nd over. Greasley had 4 for 35 from 15.4 overs, and Wylie 4 for 43.

So, Marple had 58 overs to reach their target. After getting off the mark with a sumptuous on drive from Hanna, Mark Makin was caught behind from the first ball he received from Jason Whittaker. However, Andrew Hall, in particular, and James Morgan both looked in good touch. Hall drove both bowlers through the covers, and Morgan hooked the skiddy Hanna. Disaster struck for Marple at 35, when first, Morgan (10) and then Hall (20) were both caught at mid on by Fitton in trying to hit the ball over the top. Hyde sensed their chance, and piled the pressure on Bennett and Wood. There were precious few scoring opportunities, as the bowlers found an excellent line and length. Bennett looked solid though and eventually took Whittaker for two boundaries in an over. Wood (5) fell lbw to Whittaker, and then after digging in for a while, Jonny Marshall (3) tamely chipped Hanna to Fitzsimmons at mid wicket.  Bennett played a fine exemplary knock, memorably hooking Hanna into the pavilion for six. This in an over when the Aussie delivered five consecutive bouncers. Sadly for Marple, his concentration deserted him when he guided Whittaker to Duffy at slip to be caught for 36. Young (4) also fell in the slips and Marple were 92 for 7 and looking at a second successive league defeat. Andy Mummery showed excellent application though, and with Matt Whittaker once more putting a high price on his wicket, a determined rear guard action began. Mummery waited patiently for the rare bad deliveries which he put away in style, and the pair added 49 for the eighth wicket.  With 36 required form six overs, an unlikely victory looked a possibility. However, Hanna returned for a second spell, and concentrated on bowling off cutters. A beauty deceived Mummery to bowl him for a valiant 34. Skipper Berry had Greasley caught at short leg, but Whittaker, with a gritty 28 not out saw Marple to safety at 156 for 9. Jason Whittaker had 4 for 55 and Hanna 4 for 72 from a marathon 27 overs. 

Marple had a chance to defeat the league leaders, but crucial errors, and the accuracy of Hyde’s opening bowlers meant they had to settle for the draw, dropping to fourth in the league. Next Saturday, they are once more at home, entertaining Grappenhall, as the second half of the season begins, 12.30 pm start. 

A short boundary hampered Marple second team’s attempt to defend a solid score of 216 for 9 at Werneth Low. The highlight for Marple was a magnificent knock of 109 not out from George Pearson. Pearson has taken his chance well at the top of the order, and was well supported by Joe Cash who made 38 as the pair added over 80 for the sixth wicket. Hyde managed to keep wickets in hand, and although Marple kept them waiting until the final over, victory came by the margin of 6 wickets. 

A below par batting display from the third team contributed to a comprehensive defeat at home to Cheadle thirds on Sunday. From 3 for 3, Andy Massey with 50 and James with 40 rescued things somewhat, and a total of 138 all out was reached. Cheadle though  ran out comfortable winners by six wickets.

 Marple fourth put up an excellent display at Hale Barns. Mike Smith with five wickets was the bowling hero as Barns were dismissed for 165. After a shaky start, Marple were steered to a tight two victory by Tom Reeve with 38 not out.

Marple Steamrollered!

Chester Boughton Hall 280 for 6 dec (51.2 overs) 25 points beat Marple 79 all out (23.4 overs) 2 points 

The juggernaut that is Chester Boughton Hall has stuttered at times in the first half of this season, but on Saturday Marple were flattened in its path at Filkins Lane Chester.

Marple captain Mark Bennett has not won many tosses this season, and yet again he called incorrectly as his opposite number Lee Dixon had no hesitation in batting first on a fine, warm late June afternoon. The pitch was the same one used in Cheshire’s recent minor counties knockout victory, and it appeared to be very dry. Chester openers Rowlands and Goodwin both looked in ominous form. It was the former, however, who outshone his more illustrious partner on this occasion. Possibly Goodwin was not 100 per cent fit, as he was content to knock the ball around and give Rowlands the strike. It was not that Marple’s opening bowlers, Whittaker and Wood today, bowled that badly, more that Rowlands, didn’t seem to need to play himself in. Anything fractionally off line or length was despatched to the fence off front and back foot. It was a perfect start for Chester. 

Even though Greasley replaced Wood, and began an excellent spell, the run rate barely faltered.  Rowlands continued on his merry way, whilst respecting Marple’s canny off spinner. It was Greasley who eventually had both batsmen stumped by keeper Makin with clever deception. First it was Goodwin for 44 the score at 134, then Rowlands for a terrific 93 at 157 for 2. With Whittaker bowling better in his second spell, there was an element of control for the fielding side. Lee Dixon was bowled by Whittaker, and then his brother Ross fell in similar fashion to Greasley. When Ogilby was well caught and bowled by Greasley at 205 for 5, Marple may have felt they were back in the game.

This hope was soon dashed in no uncertain terms! Lancashire’s Jordan Clark had batted circumspectly at the start of his innings, being content to take the runs on offer. However, his partner, batting at number seven, Ollie Law seemed to inspire him. Law launched three huge sixes, and then Clark got in on the act with four of his own. The last overs of the Chester innings proved to be carnage for Marple, with even the good deliveries being smashed to the boundary. Dixon eventually called a halt at 280 for 6 when Clark was caught at long on for a responsible and ultimately hard hit 75. Law had a rapid 38 not out. For Marple, Greasley bowled superbly, having little luck and his figures of 4 for 82 were only spoiled in his final couple of overs. 

On the resumption, skipper Bennett sent in Andrew Hall to open with Makin, Chester certainly having a potent opening attack. Queenslander, Joshua Henderson is probably the quickest bowler in the league this season, and Clark is no slouch either. Henderson in particular tested both openers, the ball whistling through to keeper Rowlands stood twenty or more yards back. He had his wicket when Hall appeared to glove the ball to the keeper with the score at 17 for 1. Leg spinner, Jack Williams soon replaced Clark, and embarked on a high class spell. James Morgan was battling hard against Henderson, and took him for 10 in an over, bravely hooking the paceman.  However, with Williams right on the spot and spinning the ball away from the right handers, Marple were soon in trouble. Makin edged to slip, and then Bennett was freakishly run out when Morgan straight drove Williams only for the bowler to divert the ball onto the stumps as Bennett was backing up. Morgan’s innings of promise ended when he top edged Williams and was caught by Killoran. The rest of the innings was a sad procession, as Williams weaved his magic. Clark replaced Henderson to pick up Marshall and Whittaker, but Williams was not to be denied, finishing with 6 for 15 from only 8.4 overs. Marple were humbled for 79 in only 23.4 overs.

This was a chastening experience for Marple, who drop to third in the league. Next Saturday sees the visit of league leaders Hyde to Bowden Lane, 12.30pm start. Marple will need to show some reaction, and will have hope, as Hyde lost their unbeaten record at home to dark horses Urmston on Saturday. Chester looked a formidable side in moving up to second place, and will take some stopping in the second half of the season. Their win was marred only by some overzealous appealing, sometimes continuing with a second shout after the umpire had made his decision. 

There were plenty of runs in the second team fixture between the two clubs at Bowden Lane on Saturday. Chester batted first and amassed 241 for 6 in their 50 overs. Marple battled back to put a brake on the scoring later on as Andy Hayes took four late wickets. Marple replied brightly, with George Pearson supporting James Crisall well in an opening stand of 75. Pearson fell for 25, but Crisall played a fine innings of 85. It was his dismissal that took the sting out of the response.  Ryan Lindsay (34) continued the chase, but struggled with his timing. When he was dismissed, Joe Yates and Will Sugden played some pleasing strokes to leave Marple on 215 for 6 and a draw. 

On a bad weekend for the Marple teams, the third eleven were trounced by ten wickets at Toft on Sunday.  Openers Mark Nicholson and James Hirst added over 73 for the first wicket in only ten overs, but only David Brook with 26 was able to support them.  From 111 for 4, a total of 128 all out was not what the doctor ordered. Toft cruised to victory with twenty overs remaining.

In Marple fourth team’s friendly fixture with Heaton Mersey at Bowden Lane on Sunday, Tom Travis continued his good form with 50 in Marple’s 197. Mersey were 160 for 7, but eventually got home without further loss to win by three wickets.

Marple too Strong for Lowly Neston

Marple 95 for 3 (23.5 overs) 25 points beat Neston 92 all out (45.5 over’s) 1 point by 7 wickets

Neston skipper David Hurst probably surprised his opposite number Mark Bennett by electing to bat after winning the toss at Bowden Lane last Saturday. Once again, wet weather had made preparation for the game tricky, and rain was in the area on commencement of the game. Matt Whittaker and Andy Wylie have been a handful for pretty well every side this season, and today proved no exception. Mark Makin took another stunning catch behind the stumps to account for Hurst for a duck off Wylie.

Then, in the next over, Wales Minor County player Will Evans aimed an expansive drive at Whittaker and was bowled for 8. A further wicket each for the openers came when Williams was safely caught by Bennett, and Murphy was lbw after shouldering arms to a straight one from Wylie. Luke Camden watched in horror as two further wickets fell to Greasley to leave Neston in the mire on 24 for 6. There was some sort of revival as Hawley rode his luck in joining the responsible Camden to add 56 runs for the seventh wicket. Eliot Young replaced Whittaker, and once again settled well. He eventually had the battling Camden brilliantly caught at slip by Greasley for 37. Then, in his next over, Hawley (23) drilled the ball to mid wicket, where Morgan safely pouched the catch. Greasley had numbers 10 and 11 lbw soon afterwards, and Neston were sent packing for only 92.

Although fluent stroke play proved difficult, this was a poor batting display from the visitors, well as Marple bowled on the day. Greasley had 4 for 22 from 15.5 overs, Wylie had 2 for 7, Young 2 for 17 and Whittaker 2 for 43. The fielding and catching was of a high order, with everything being caught, and Bennett keeping a check on the batsmen with his field placing.

After the interval Hurst opted to open up with his two experienced bowlers, veteran seamer Finnegan, and slow left armer Stimson. Not for the first time this season, Mark Makin took a liking to the slow left arm attack, and Stimson was replaced by Hurst after being despatched for 17 runs in his first two overs.  Finnegan had the fluent Makin lbw for 20, and then Marshall chipped Hurst to mid on to leave Marple  42 for 2. James Morgan (9) had once again looked to be settling in well when he charged down the pitch to Stewart, who had replaced Finnegan, and was well stumped by Evans. 44 for 3 was the high point of the afternoon for the visitors. Mark Bennett, in determined mood this season, was then joined by Paul Wood. The fourth wicket pair mixed good sense with excellent running, and also put the rare bad deliveries to the boundary. Bennett was 22 not out and Wood 27 not out when the winning runs were hit. Marple closed on 95 for 3 in the 24^th over. 

They move up to second place in the Cheshire County Premier League, and visit champions Chester Boughton Hall next Saturday, 12.30pm start.

A lacklustre performance saw Marple exit from the Cheshire Cup at Toft on Sunday. Only Mark Bennett with a fine 77 not out, stayed for any length of time as Marple reached 173 for 8 in a game reduced to 40 overs per side. Tim Radford, batting at nine, gave Bennett useful support in adding 46 for the eighth wicket to give the visitors something to bowl at. Toft openers, Drummond and Hancock, however, added 147 for the first wicket, as the home team romped to victory by 8 wickets.

Marple seconds were soundly beaten by 8 wickets at Neston’s Parkgate ground on the Wirral on Saturday.  Andy Bell rescued the innings with a gritty knock of 51 not out coming in at number 8 as Marple eventually reached 148 all out after the full 50 overs. For Neston, Gill was severe on all the Marple bowlers, hitting a forceful 88, before falling to George Clarke. A comfortable home victory was brought up in the 34^th over.

There were two sensational performances in Marple’s Sunday teams. At Nantwich, Mark Nicholson hit a breathtaking 120 in Marple’s 247 for 5 in only 40 overs. Skipper James Hirst sensibly declared early, and this was to pay dividends as Nantwich were bowled out for 185 to give the visitors victory by 62 runs. Chris Barlow had 4 for 38.

However, even Nicholson’s 120 had to take second place to a bowling spell of dreams by Jack Grundy in Marple fourth’s win by 7 wickets over Woodley thirds. Jack had 6 for 17 with his six wickets coming in the space of only 8 balls including the hat trick! Woodley were all out for 135. In Marple’s run chase, Tom Travis hit a fine 42 and Luke Greasley a rapid 42 not out.

Unstoppable Makin Sees off Valiant Oxton!

Marple 164 for 4 (34.5 overs) 25 points beat Oxton 160 for 5 (37 overs) by 6 wickets

A superb undefeated 102, following three victims behind the stumps, from Marple wicketkeeper batsman Mark Makin, guided the visitors to a fourth win of the season at Oxton last Saturday.

When Marple left for Wirral club Oxton on Saturday morning, there seemed little prospect of any cricket. Torrential rain had fallen during the morning, and with more forecast, the thought of any sort of meaningful game appeared fanciful.  However, although it was still raining at the scheduled start time of 12.30pm, the Oxton ground was in absolutely top class condition, with the pitch well covered, and the outfield looking better than on many first class grounds. The rain stopped around 1.30pm, and a game of 37 overs per side was agreed with a start time of 3.00pm.

Mark Bennett won the toss, and asked the home team to bat. With a reduced game in the offing, the home batsmen were in a hurry. Whittaker was warned for running on the pitch, and he resorted to a round the wicket attack. Maybe this, along with a dampish ball, slightly reduced his effectiveness on the day. Wylie was a threat though, and he repeatedly beat the outside edge of Hughes. De Brabander had been the more secure of the batsmen, but he was brilliantly caught by Makin off Wylie for 19 with the score at 30 for 1. Alex Money looked assured at number three, and he dominated the second wicket stand with Hughes. They added 42 runs.

Bennett introduced spin at both ends, with the off spin of Greasley, and the slow left arm of Young. Young settled well, and when Hughes called his partner for a suicidal second run, he calmly collected the ball from Morgan’s excellent throw to run out the dangerous Money. Soon afterwards, Young had his wicket when Hughes was well stumped by Makin. The remainder of the Oxton innings saw the rest of the top six reach double figures, with Zimbabwean, Queri (32 not out) and Fennah (26) adding 50 for the fifth wicket with some fluent strokeplay. 160 for 5 meant maximum batting points for Oxton, but it was difficult to say whether it was a par score or not. Greasley had two wickets, but they cost him 55 from 11 overs.

It looked to be a decent total when Oxton’s opening bowler Gayon Fernando first clean bowled Jonny Marshall for 3, and then in the same over had James Morgan caught behind for a duck. Marple on 10 for 2. Normally in these situations, the batsmen try and consolidate. However, Mark Makin is not batting according to any convention this season. Without taking undue risk, he decided that Fernando had to be removed from the attack. Sixteen runs were taken from his next two overs, and with skipper Bennett batting with good sense at the other end, the initial crisis passed. Queri did not prove to be a threat at the other end to Fernando, and Oxton captain Cashin opted for left arm spin at both ends in the shape of Worcestershire’s Choudry and Fennah.

Makin then had a short period when he appeared to lose control, being dropped at slip off Choudry, and then flirting a couple off the edge past the stumps. However, when Bennett (25) was caught from a thick edge at 84 that was caught by Queri, Makin took complete charge. Firstly with Wood (12) and the Andrew Hall (15 not out) he picked the moment to strike. Fennah was hoisted for a couple of huge sixes, and Choudry lost control of length and line under the onslaught. Wood and Hall were excellent in support, picking gaps in the field to collect singles in order that Makin could face the majority of the bowling. 

With only a few runs required, Hall unselfishly gave Makin the strike, so that he could bring up the winning runs with a swept boundary from Fennah, and also complete a magnificent century.

Makin’s innings included 14 fours and 2 sixes. It was noteworthy not only for the superb clean ball striking, but also the clear assessment of the match situation. He picked exactly the moments when to strike, and such is his confidence at present, he had the belief to execute all the strokes.

So, Marple are back on track on a day when only three premier league games were completed. They move up to third in the league, and face another Wirral side, Neston at Bowden Lane next Saturday, 12.00pm start.

Marple’s second team were not so lucky, as their game with Macclesfield was abandoned without a ball bowled. They remain in second place in the second eleven premier league.

Torrential rain ultimately put paid to Marple third’s game against Grappenhall at Bowden Lane on Sunday. Consistent bowling restricted the visitors to 132 for 9 in their 45 overs. However, with Marple on 75 for 3 after only 14 overs the heavens opened and no further play was possible. There had been some excellent strokeplay from James Travis, Andy Massey (35 not out) and Mark Nicholson for a healthy Sunday afternoon crowd to enjoy.

The fourths emerged comfortable winners by 8 wickets at Bollington, when a rapid run chase defied the weather.

Another Home Washout for Marple!

Persistent heavy rain last Saturday turned the Marple Cricket Club outfield into a series of small lakes. The game with Urmston was abandoned without a ball being bowled, making it the second successive home game to be lost to the weather. The side remain fourth in the Cheshire County Premier League after six games.

Next Saturday, Marple are at home again, this time to newly promoted Bramhall, 12.30pm start.
Marple seconds game at Urmston was also abandoned.

In the only game played by any of Marple’s senior sides this weekend, the third eleven were comfortably beaten by a strong Hyde thirds at Bowden Lane on Sunday. Hyde score 232 for 9 in their 45 overs. Marple were reduced to 45 for 6, but rallied to 136 all out through Andy Gichero who scored an attractive 31, and Chris Barlow a responsible 40. Barlow had earlier been Marple’s best bowler with four wickets in a hostile opening spell.

Whittaker leads rout on Nantwich

Marple 106 for 2 (25.5 overs) 25 points beat Nantwich 105 all out (31 overs) 0 points by eight wickets.

Marple’s Victorian left arm paceman, Matt Whittaker, was the star of the show on Saturday, as Nantwich were heavily beaten at Whitehouse Lane.

On a perfect mid May Saturday afternoon, home skipper Raymond Doyle elected to bat first on winning the toss. However, he must have been regretting his decision, when in the ninth over he found himself facing a hat trick delivery from Whittaker. Whittaker and his partner Andy Wylie had kept a strangle hold on the Nantwich top order, with both bowlers right on the mark. The pitch was proving tricky for batting, and Whittaker and Wylie both extracted movement and variable bounce. The whippy left armer struck quickly, having Shaw lbw, and then soon afterwards clean bowling Farrington and also Hunt first ball. Doyle survived the hat trick, but then in the next over, Wylie had the prize wicket of Lancashire starlet, Liam Livingstone, palpably lbw for one. Nantwich on 10 for 4.  Although Doyle (14) became one of only three home batsmen to reach double figures, he didn’t survive long, following Atkins (0) to leave his side on 25 for 6. Both these fell wickets to Wylie, who had at this stage figures of 3 for 8 from 8 overs. Paul Wood was introduced to give Whittaker a breather, and he soon had Johnston safely caught by Eliot Young at square leg, the score 35 for 7.

Nantwich were indebted to Cook-Sievewright (25) and top scorer Goode (42 not out) to enable the side to reach three figures. Wylie’s figures were slightly spoiled as both players found the boundary. However, when Whittaker was reintroduced, he quickly cleaned up, with Warrington well caught at long on by Marshall, and number 11 Griffiths comprehensively castled. Nantwich all out 105 in only 31 overs, with Whittaker, superb this afternoon, 6 for 36 from 13 overs. His partner Andy Wylie was equally impressive with 3 for 43 from 14.

On the resumption, all eyes were on the home opening attack of Warrington and Shaw. Could they find similar movement to the Marple seamers? The answer was definitely no. Jonny Marshall and Mark Makin are in confident mood this early season, and both found the boundary with regularity. A partnership of 32 came up in only six overs. Both players were probably slightly careless with Marshall (15) playing on, and Makin (17) mistiming a drive to mid off as the wickets went to Shaw.

Shaw, along with the experienced Warrington, then bowled steadily to new batsmen Jim Morgan and Mark Bennett. Maybe the sun had taken some of the spite from the pitch because both batsmen were able to play themselves in fairly comfortably. The highlights of their unbroken partnership of 73 were successive boundaries by Morgan off Warrington, one a perfectly timed cover drive, and the second an exquisite back foot shot just in front of point. On a ground on which he likes batting, Bennett also played a number of delightful pulls and drives. Morgan ended with a fluent 41 not out with eight fours, and Bennett 21 not out, as victory came in only the 26^th over.

Next Saturday, Marple face Urmston at Bowden Lane in the first of two consecutive home games, 12.30pm start.

Marple seconds were victors by four wickets against Nantwich seconds in an excellent game of cricket at Bowden Lane on Saturday. The visitors reached a testing target of 215 for 6, with Andy Newton leading the way with a hard hit 77. He was well supported by Cowap with 45, and the very promising Fergal Madden with 40 not out. Matthew Shelton was Marple’s best bowler with 3 for 60.

 When Marple replied, James Crisall looked in top form against the pace of Chris Connolly, and Will Darby was in stubborn mood at the other end. Crisall fell for 27, and then skipper Wild was soon bowled by Connolly. Gary Cash was in vintage form for Marple, as he dominated a stand of over 80 for the third wicket. Darby went for a battling 24 and then fatigue caught up with Cash when he had reached a classy 84. Ryan Lindsay is in fine form this season, and he defied the returning Connolly and a blow on the helmet, hitting a fine 37 not out to guide Marple to a four wicket victory with five deliveries remaining.

Marple third eleven lost by three runs in a tight game at Didsbury on Sunday. Chasing 203 for victory, they were bowled out for 199 with just two deliveries remaining. Andy Mummery made a valiant 84.

Brooklands fourth team conceded the the game to Marple fourths, being unable to raise a side.

Toft Undone By Greasley Masterclass!

Marple 154 for two (33.1 overs) 25 points, beat Toft 153 all out (53.1 overs) by eight wickets

A superb exhibition of off spin bowling from Marple’s Andy Greasley proved too much for Toft’s young guns at Booth’s Park Knutsford on Saturday.

On a fine, clear early May afternoon, home skipper Toby Drummond elected to bat first on winning the toss. The Toft wicket looked to be a good one to bat on, with little grass on it, but the Marple opening attack of Whittaker and Wood, proved difficult to get on top of. Keeper Makin was seen to take the ball above waist height to Whittaker, and maybe a few doubts began to form in the home batting line up. Wood bowled a useful spell in support of Whittaker, and was unlucky to see a regulation slip catch spilled by Greasley. However, for the visitors, this did not prove to be costly, as Greasley replaced Wood after four overs from the tall seamer, and embarked on an unbroken spell of high class.

 Drummond J was bowled by a sharply spinning off break, and England under 19 star Rob Jones was guilty of over confidence when he chipped his fourth delivery straight to the safe hands of Mummery at mid off for a duck. Although Hughes looked to be a player of skill coming in at four, his partner the Victorian Jake Hancock, was also undone by Greasley’s spin and bowled for 28. Whittaker had kept things tight, despite being wicketless, and Toft were 46 for 3. Hughes and Stubbs played with maybe too much freedom, and whilst both found the boundary, neither looked to have an air of permanence about them. Like Hancock they both fell in the twenties, and the home side found themselves in trouble at 99 for 5.

Jimmy Ormond replaced Whittaker, and whilst not as threatening today as Greasley, could not be taken lightly. The runs began to dry up for the home side as wickets continued to fall. At 118 for 8, skipper Toby Drummond (31) was joined by Saleem, and they managed to give some respectability to the score, adding 35 for the ninth wicket. A fighting total of 153 all out was achieved after 53 overs. Greasley, superb throughout, had figures of 7 for 34 from 22.1 overs. He was well supported by Ormond with 2 for 51 from 15, and Whittaker, 1 for 42 from 13. Despite a couple of sharp chances going down, Marple, once again, put up a fine performance in the field. Fine catches were taken by Eliot Young, Whittaker, and Greasley off his own bowling. Toft 153 all out at tea.

One or two old sages thought that 153 may be a decent total on what is traditionally a spinners’ wicket at Toft. However, Marple’s new and vibrant opening pair of Jonny Marshall and Mark Makin soon laid any doubts to rest. The duo continued in similar vein to last week against Bowdon. Marshall despatched any wayward bowling from Drummond to the fence with ease, the ball racing to the boundary as his timing was in full flow. Makin was not far behind, and when the normally accurate left arm spinner Jimmy Lomas was introduced, the Marple keeper’s eyes lit up! Lomas, with eleven wickets in his first two games, was treated with disdain. Two magnificent sixes were hit by Makin, and Lomas was withdrawn after only four overs that cost him 29 runs.

Leg spinner Rob Jones proved to be Toft’s best bowler on the day, but the batsmen were not under any pressure. Third change bowler Talbot bowled Marshall for 39, with score at 79, and Jones had Jim Morgan caught behind at 99. Morgan had once again, looked the part at number three, but was maybe guilty of over confidence against Jones. This was the last of any joy for the home side. Paul Wood, at four this week, proved as solid as a rock in support of the magnificent Makin. For the second week running, Makin made batting look ridiculously easy, as all bowlers came alike to him. His timing was superb, and Lomas was once again despatched for huge sixes when he returned. Victory came with almost 22 overs remaining, Makin a glorious 77 not out, and Wood 17 not out.

Another fabulous performance this from Marple, and next week they entertain Alderley Edge, in what has always been an eagerly anticipated fixture, 12.30pm start at Bowden Lane.

Toft’s second team had the edge in the game at Marple on Saturday, being victors by 6 wickets with seven overs to spare. Marple’s total of 159 was never enough on a good surface and a fast outfield, veteran Nigel Muirhead 5 for 52. Gary Cash with 31, and skipper Andy Wild 39 were the leading scorers for Marple, with Joe Cash reaching the twenties on his first appearance of the season. Joe was Marple’s best bowler with 3 for 58 from 18 overs as Toft were always in command of the reply after getting away to a flier, Chris Drummond 49.