Masterful Panda Sinks Marple, but Joy for Bergin’s Boys and the T20 Thirds!

Marple 186 all out (48 overs) 8 points lost to Urmston 188 for 6 (47.1 overs) 25 points by four wickets 

 

A masterful innings of 95 not out from Urmston’s Sumit Panda was the difference between the sides in this close contest at Bowden Lane last Saturday.

On a cool but dry first day of May, Marple were invited to bat first after Urmston skipper Lewis Jackson called correctly at the toss. As in the first game, two weeks previously against Grappenhall, Marple’s top order of Andrew Hall and James Crisall were in command of the bowling. Boundaries flowed, particularly from Hall who looks in great touch this season. The Marple ground looked in superb condition, and the outfield was, once more, super quick. Forty- four runs were added in just seven overs, before Crisall (17) was dismissed, caught and bowled, by the persevering Assi. This brought in Mark Bennett at number three, for his first game in two and a half years. Marple spectators were very glad to see this classy lefthander back wielding the willow, and he looked as though he had never been away. With Hall, he added a further fifty runs for the second wicket, his trademark cover drive being particularly effective. Marple had reached a very healthy 94 for 1 at five runs per over.

Bennett’s fine start was cut short when he pulled a short delivery to Panda from Matt Kilcourse for a cultured 23. Disappointed not to go on, but glad to show he still has the class. From this point onwards, the Marple innings went into decline, another mirror image of the first game. This was due partly to some batsmen error, and also the increasing accuracy of the Urmston attack. Kilcourse, the medium pacer and Harry Singh, the off spinner, kept a check on the innings. Hall, once more, passed a sumptuous half century, but then was bowled for 53. With Mark Makin (0) not lasting too long on his first appearance after injury this season, responsibility fell on the inform Morgan to steady the ship. He looked in good touch, but mistakenly charged at Singh, who is not a flighty slow bowler, missed and was stumped for 18 at 124 for 5.

Paul Wood, at seven this week, once more battled to establish himself with Max Fitzgerald. Both players were just looking settled, when Wood (7)drove Singh to mid on, where Watson took a fine catch. It was a similar story when Saxelby joined Fitzgerald. Twenty more were added, but Fitzgerald (25), after some pleasing strokeplay, called for a suicidal run and was easily run out at 164 for 7. The remainder of the innings was one of trying to eke out as many as possible. Joe Cash reached double figures, and Jack Grundy curbed his attacking instincts to finish undefeated. 186 all out represented a fairish score, but once again a good start had been somewhat thrown away, when a total of around 220 plus beckoned. The nippy Kilcourse had an excellent 5 for 24, Singh 2 for 36 and the deceptive Assi 2 for 46 for Urmston.

Jack Grundy has a very handy habit of producing “magic” spells. When Urmston replied, he produced two beauties to remove both openers, Watson and Singh for ducks.

 At eleven for two, Marple had Sumit Panda in against the new ball and a fresh attack. Skipper Jackson looked in determined mode at the other end to Panda, and although all Marple’s bowlers did a decent job, the third wicket pair advanced the score at a good rate. Both players were rock solid in defence, and found the boundary, Lewis with fine timing, and Panda unleashing his power to devastating effect including a lofted six over the pavilion off Saxelby. The cricket was good as they added 76 quality runs before Jackson (33) drove Clarke firmly to wide mid off where Makin took a safe catch. Assi joined Panda, and played second fiddle as Marple succeeded somewhat in keeping Panda off the strike for a period. The dangerous Grundy returned for a second spell, and removed, Assi (12) and Kilcourse (0)in a double wicket maiden. At 113 for 5 it was evenly matched again, but Panda remained. He was joined by the experienced Mike Ness, low in the order at seven, and with clever batting they took Urmston closer to the target. 44 were added before Ness chopped Saxelby onto his stumps at 157 for 6 to give Marple renewed hope. This hope was not long in being extinguished though as Josh Edwards looked a very confident and competent player at eight. He wasted little time in assisting Panda bring up the winning runs. Panda smote the luckless Joe Cash into the pavilion for a second six to bring up the victory, and just miss out on a deserved century with 95 not out. 

Edwards provided handy support with 15 not out.

This was another good game at Bowden Lane, athough Marple will take little comfort at being on the losing end of it again. Sumit Panda’s superb, and chanceless innings was the difference, and all of his experience and quality were on full display here. For Marple, Grundy, with 4 for 54, was excellent, and not with much good fortune either. Saxelby, and Clarke each picked up a wicket, and Cash bowled well with no reward, unable to gain much purchase from the surface.

Next Saturday, May 8^th, Marple visit Bollington, 12.00 noon start.

 

Marple seconds had a convincing win at Cheadle to get skipper Connor Bergin’s season up and running. Cheadle were held in check, making 156 all out in 48 overs. Sam Povey top scored with 43, as all of the Marple bowlers did an excellent job; Connor Ramsay 2 for 34, Connor Bergin 2 for 33, Kaiser Chowdrey 2 for 15, Sam Stretton 2 for 13, and Tom Chalmers unlucky to just pick up just the one wicket with 1 for 21.

Despite losing opening partner Mark Nicholson early for a duck, Matt Barrow continued his fine early season form. There were good and entertaining partnerships with Sam Stretton (26) and Mike Schofield (39). Barrow fell for a cultured 62 to trigger a mini collapse near the finishing post, but James Hirst used his experience to see Marple home by three wickets in a fine all round performance. Povey was also the home side’s most successful bowler with 3 for 36.

 

Marple thirds trounced Stockport Trinity thirds by ten wickets in the third eleven T20 competition on Sunday. Eddie Lister top scored with 32 as Trinity battled to 92 for 5, all of the six Marple bowlers used doing a fine job. Will Darby (29 not out) and Jamie Massey (50 not out) then made light work of chasing down the target, the winning runs being hit in just the 12^th over. 

Morgan Ploughs Lone Furrow, as AJ Master Class Downs Marple!

 Brooklands 196 all out (47.3 overs) 25 points beat Marple 107 all out (34.4 overs) 4 points by 89 runs

 

Marple’s first visit to Brooklands in over a decade ended with the home side inflicting a heavy defeat over the visitors by the sizeable margin of 89 runs on another gloriously sunny late April afternoon

Brooklands skipper Jack Bagshaw elected to bat first, the large expanses of the Whitehill Road ground never having looked in better condition. Appearances can be deceptive though, for despite having the look of being batsman friendly, there was plenty in the pitch to interest the seam bowlers. The ball did not come readily on to the bat, and there was some variable bounce. However, Marple’s opening attack of Jack Grundy and Mudassar Panchbhaya, whilst bowling some good deliveries, were possibly striving too hard to bowl the “magic ball.” Both men were guilty of serving up a mixed bag, and the opening batsmen for Brooklands, Alex Edwards and Dave Cunliffe feasted on some wayward bowling. The outfield was like greased lightning, and anything that pierced the infield raced away to the boundary. Although Joe Cash, who came on as first change, settled immediately, the first wicket pair added 65 runs in quick time. This partnership had Marple on the back foot, and with the ground fielding not up to the usual level, it looked as though a long afternoon in the field chasing leather was in prospect.

It is to Marple’s credit that they did drag themselves back into the game. After a nervous initial over, Ed Saxelby bowled an excellent spell replacing Grundy. He removed both openers, Edwards for 36 and Cunliffe for 22. He also, fortunately, picked up the scalp of the hard hitting South African Kevin Carroll (29), who chipped a full toss to mid off, where Grundy took a safe catch. Carroll had earlier despatched Joe Cash for two massive sixes, and looked in ominous touch. Age restrictions meant that Saxelby had to be rested after seven overs, but he had done a good job.

 George Clarke continued the good work though with a fine spell. He took four wickets in his ten over stint, and ended with 4 for 32, as Marple clawed their way back. At 154 for 8, they were almost on an even keel. Then, for the second week running, a fine undefeated innings from a middle order batsman, on this occasion Tom Starkes (41 not out), took the game away from Marple. Starkes looked as good as any batsman at the top of the order, and with gutsy support from the tail, took the total up to 196 before Mudassar took a brilliant caught and bowled to end the innings. Andrew Hall pouched three good catches at first slip for the visitors.

Whilst Marple had come back well, taking eight wickets for 89, the final tally looked to be some way above a par score considering the variable nature of the pitch. In A.J Hart, Brooklands have a seasoned opening bowler. Strongly built, with a good repeatable action, he knew exactly the length to bowl on his home turf. AJ managed to consistently hit that area around off stump, and just short of driving length. No Marple batsman was comfortable against him. Hall, lbw for 2, and Fitzgerald, caught behind for a duck, went in his second over. Crisall was joined by Jim Morgan, who began with a flurry of boundaries off AJ’s partner Leach. It looked a different game at the other end, and with Crisall looking secure, Marple began to repair the early damage. Crisall’s first mistake cost him his wicket though, as he carved a rare wide delivery from AJ to point when on 19 to leave Marple 45 for 3. Paul Wood, at five, is not a lucky batsman. Maybe bowlers up their game when this quality performer appears at the crease, but he rarely gets any “freebies.” Today was no exception, as AJ and his namesake Chris Hart, the off spinner, kept Wood pinned down.  Wood battled for 30 minutes for a solitary single, Morgan doing the scoring, before falling lbw to AJ. It was downhill after this point for Marple, although Saxelby looked secure in company with his skipper. A brilliant direct hit run out from Cunliffe at square leg did for Saxelby (6). The tail was blown away again, by Chris Hart, and the end was not long coming at 107 all out.

All the while, Jim Morgan played a lone hand for Marple. He ended on 75 with ten fours, being the ninth wicket to fall, comfortably the highest score of the game. He played some glorious strokes all round the wicket, and was solid in his defence. 

The winning post of 197 was always a long way off, and without any real help at the other end, he could not win the match on his own. For Brooklands, AJ Hart, with 5 for 24 from 13 overs, showed the age old virtues of line and length, never striving too hard, but maintaining the pressure at all times. Chris Hart, was also accurate, and he had slightly flattering figures of 4 for 30, the tail offering little resistance.

Marple are back at Bowden Lane next Saturday, May 1^st, when they face another South Manchester side in Urmston, 12 noon start.

 

Marple seconds were also comfortably defeated by 71 runs in their home fixture with Wirral side Neston. In the visitors’ substantial 231 for 4 declared in 47 overs, there were two centurions, the two Matthews; Strong, with 110, and Brookes with 100 not out. The Marple bowlers toiled manfully, Kaiser Chowdry again picking up a couple wickets in his 2 for 52.

When Marple replied, several players got good starts, but were not able to go on and get the big score to threaten a win. Matt Barrow top scored with 44, skipper Bergin showed his development as an all rounder with 28, Mark Nicholson looked good for 22 and James Hirst weighed in with 20. A draw was almost earned, but the tenth wicket fell with four overs remaining.

 

A high scoring game of T20 cricket saw Marple/Compstall thirds make it a hat trick of defeats for the Bowden Lane club over the weekend.

Hyde thirds blasted a commanding 169 for 7, with Hatley taking 2 for 20 for Marple.  Faced with chasing this daunting total, Marple mustered a creditable 131 for 9, Will Darby 48 not out, and Andy Massey 26.

Cool Arthur Steers Grappenhall Home in Tense Opener

 Marple 176 all out (48 overs) 9 points lost to Grappenhall 177 for 8 (43.2 overs) 25 points by two wickets.

A mature innings of 37 not out, under pressure, from Grappenhall’s impressive middle order batsman Arthur Pennington guided the visitors to a narrow two wicket win at Bowden Lane last Saturday. This, after a superb spell of 4 for 29 from Marple’s off spinner Joe Cash had turned the game the home side’s way.

 

Marple and Grappenhall were both relegated from the Cheshire County Premier League at the end of the last full pre Covid season in 2019. On a glorious mid April afternoon, the ground superbly presented by groundsman Mike Hibbert on the first weekend of the new season, they met again. For both sides, this game was likely to provide a template as to how their respective seasons in division one might pan out. The two clubs have been pretty evenly matched over the years, dating back to Cheshire Cup meetings in the 1980’s and also a terrific challenge match played between the respective champions of the Cheshire County League and Manchester Association in 1988, Marple edging that game by just one run. On winning the toss, Marple skipper Jim Morgan elected to take first knock, and he was soon very glad that the coin had come down in his favour. A rejuvenated Andrew Hall was in prime touch, and his partner, restored to the first team after a number of seasons in second team cricket, was James Crisall. The pair showed class and experience, with some glorious strokeplay on a good Marple track. The Grappenhall opening attack of the slippery Aaron McCabe and the canny Sam Guest is a good one, but here they were mastered by Hall and Crisall. They added 90 quality runs, before Crisall (44) fell to first change seamer Lewis Porter. Max Fitzgerald, at three, immediately settled with Hall, and they took the total to 120, before Fitzgerald (24) was bowled, also by Porter, an innings rich in promise. Morgan (0) and Ramsay (4) both then went quickly to leave Marple on 124 for 4, the good start squandered. 

Ed Saxelby settled in well with Hall, and it looked as though the innings might be revived. However, at 143, Hall (61) mistimed a pull from a rare Guest long hop and dollied a catch to mid on. It had been a fine start for Hall, his timing and placement as of old. Mudassar Panchbhaya (10) looked secure in company with Saxleby (24), who played some pleasing strokes, but they both went at 170. The tail was blown away in quick time by the deceptive left arm seamer Josh Hayes, who ended with an excellent 5 for 29. 

A disappointing finish to the innings for Marple, but with run chasing always challenging at Bowden Lane, they had the runs on the board, and were well in the game. 

 

After the tea interval, the cricket was keenly contested. Skipper Adam Roylance has a good record against Marple, and his partner, the experienced Yorkshireman Peter Barnes notched a century on his last visit to Bowden Lane. However, Jack Grundy was right in the groove for Marple. He bowled a testing line and length, causing concern for both batsmen. His partner, the veteran Andy Wylie, whilst not quite as accurate had no luck initially, both batsmen edging him through the slips for fours. Grundy had a deserved early victim when Barnes, never comfortable today, was yorked for 5. This brought to the crease Grappenhall’s marquee signing, the former Gloucestershire and Kwa-Zulu Natal first class batsman Grant Hodnett. He looked to be in imperious form immediately, effortlessy lacing Wylie for consecutive boundaries off front and back foot. However, just as it appeared Wylie must be rested, Marple’s skilful operator produced an absolute beauty to deceive and bowl Hodnett for just 16. At 44 for 2, it was an even contest. Will Fell, coincidentally a colleague of Ed Saxelby at Birmingham University, looked a stylish player at four, and he settled with Roylance, who mixed up some superb boundaries with two very close calls for lbw against Wylie.

From Marple’s point of view, the game now seemed to drift somewhat. Morgan persevered with his opening attack, but the batsmen were relatively comfortable, and runs came at an excellent rate, boundaries scorching across the fast outfield. The bowling was changed, and Joe Cash soon found the right pace at which to bowl. Maybe Fell had become a little over confident, for he played all round one and was palpably lbw to Cash. Two balls later, former Lancashire batsman Richard Green was comprehensively bowled for a duck. Cash looked unstoppable. George Clarke, in support, at the other end, was not quite able to keep up the pressure though, and Arthur Pennington was able to get a start, whilst Roylance continued on his merry way. Cash’s terrific spell continued though as he bowled both Roylance (67) and Albert Pennington (7). Marple were in with a real shot of pulling off the victory, but Arthur Pennington now showed his true colours. Not a “pretty” player, he was mighty effective, mixing solid defence and showed fine judgement as to when to attack. His running between the wickets was also good. Mudassar Panchbhaya bowled a steady spell in support of Cash, gaining the wicket of Albert Pennington, but Arthur (37 not out), with good support from McCabe (7 not out), took his side to victory by two wickets in the 44^th over.

Ultimately, this was a disappointment for Marple, albeit against what is surely one of the stronger sides in the division. The loss of nine wickets for just 56 runs, after such a promising beginning proved costly. However, Joe Cash’s superb spell of 4 for 29 almost pulled off a fine win. Maybe Morgan could have mixed up his attack a little more, but Arthur Pennington was not to be denied. Marple visit Brooklands next Saturday, 12 noon start. They will be buoyed by the competitive start they made to the season in this game, and also by the prospect of a return to the side of several quality and experienced players after injuries and family issues.

 

Marple seconds made the long trip to Nantwich on Saturday. As was the case with the first team, they made an excellent start, but from 78 for one fell away to just 113 all out. Sam Stretton,  47, Mark Nicholson, 13, and Matt Barrow, 20, had laid a good base for the innings, but inexperience in the lower order against good bowling proved to be side’s undoing, the returning James Hirst with 11 being the exception.  Simon Dimelow with 5 for 41 was the main destroyer for Nantwich.

Although the home side won by eight wickets, after a solid start form openers Chris Simpson, 35, and Jake Pearson, 55 not out, Marple bowled and fielded impressively. New captain Connor Bergin bowled a tight spell of 11 overs for 22, and Marple newcomer Kaiser Chowdrey impressed with both wickets to fall taking 2 for 24 on debut.

 

A terrific game of T20 cricket between two excellent third teams saw Marple/Compstall defeat Heaton Mersey by the slender margin of just six runs at Bowden Lane last Sunday. Matt Leech, 58, and Will Darby, 35, added 108 for the third wicket. The remaining batsmen chipped in and 127 for 5 was a useful score. 

In the reply wickets fell at regular intervals, all the home bowlers doing a good job. When it looked as though a comfortable win for the home side would ensue, Waqar Rashid, 22 not out, and Akhil Kamath, 26 not out from just 12 deliveries, almost pulled off a win for the visitors. Sam Stretton with 3 for 24 was Marple/Compstall’s most successful bowler, and he was well supported by Connor Bergin, Sam Saxelby, and Andy Massey who all had a wicket apiece. Mersey ended on 121 for 6.

Batting Woes Afflict Marple at Season’s End!

 All three Marple sides suffered a dose of the batting blues as this truncated season came to an end in glorious September sunshine. 

All three Marple sides suffered a dose of the batting blues as this truncated season came to an end in glorious September sunshine. 

At Bollington, the first team managed to recover from 30 for 6 to reach 91 all out. They were, though,  unable to bat the full forty overs, being bowled out in only the 25^th. Mark Makin made 16, but it was Tom Reeve who top scored with a battling 21. Notable for Marple were two huge sixes clouted by numbers ten and eleven, George Clarke (14) and Andy Wylie (8 not out). Harri Dickinson, 4 for 29, Stuart Plant, 3 for 22 and Julian McGovern were all excellent for Bolly.

Marple bowled and fielded pretty well against a good home line up. Wylie removed the two top men, Calum Rowe, brilliantly caught by Reeve, and Richard Hough, and was tough to face. Indeed, he had a couple of close lbw shouts that might have got Marple back into it after Hough was dismissed. However, a solid third wicket partnership between Jake Dickinson (31) and James Heathcote (28*) took the home team most of the way to victory. Connor Bergin had a deserved wicket when Dickinson skied a big shot to Mike Schofield at cover. Bergin impressed with 1 for 14 from six overs, and Wylie was always a handful with 2 for 7 also from six overs. Although their figures did not flatter them, Jack Grundy and Tom Reeve both bowled well, with some pace and no good fortune. Grundy is now well known as a fine young seam bowler, but Reeve has much potential, with an impressive, strong  action.

It has been a tough mini season for the seconds, and they were outplayed by Alderley Edge at Bowden Lane. Edge 188 for 9 in 40 overs, Joey Chang  74, Henry Stevenson 50. Greg Marsland was very good for Marple with 4 for 38, and Sam Stretton, 2 for 20 and James Crisall both did a decent job. When Marple replied, only Jamie Massey with 71 was able to stay for any time. 135 all out was well short, with Archie Vaughan once more showing his liking for Marple, but this time with the ball in hand, taking 4 for 7. 

Stockport Georgians thirds had their revenge against the third eleven, winning comfortably by 46 runs in a low scoring affair at Bowden Lane on Sunday. Georgians 117 for 8, with Sam Ittig 3 for 26, Sam Stretton 2 for 18 and Chris Lloyd 2 for 23, all doing well for Marple. Marple’s top four, Will Darby (14), Will Cheetham (10), Sam Stretton (23) and Tom Lloyd (12) all reached double figures, but no batter was able to take the team to victory. Five ducks in the innings certainly did not help matters! 71 all out was a disappointing end. 

So, a mixed season for Marple’s senior teams. However, in all three sides, the opportunities for the younger players has been there. A good number of them have returned excellent performances, and this valuable experience should hold them in good stead going forward. Let us all hope for a full and successful 2021! 

Marple bowled and fielded pretty well against a good home line up. Wylie removed the two top men, Calum Rowe, brilliantly caught by Reeve, and Richard Hough, and was tough to face. Indeed, he had a couple of close lbw shouts that might have got Marple back into it after Hough was dismissed. However, a solid third wicket partnership between Jake Dickinson (31) and James Heathcote (28*) took the home team most of the way to victory. Connor Bergin had a deserved wicket when Dickinson skied a big shot to Mike Schofield at cover. Bergin impressed with 1 for 14 from six overs, and Wylie was always a handful with 2 for 7 also from six overs. Although their figures did not flatter them, Jack Grundy and Tom Reeve both bowled well, with some pace and no good fortune. Grundy is now well known as a fine young seam bowler, but Reeve has much potential, with an impressive, strong  action.

 

It has been a tough mini season for the seconds, and they were outplayed by Alderley Edge at Bowden Lane. Edge 188 for 9 in 40 overs, Joey Chang  74, Henry Stevenson 50. Greg Marsland was very good for Marple with 4 for 38, and Sam Stretton, 2 for 20 and James Crisall both did a decent job. When Marple replied, only Jamie Massey with 71 was able to stay for any time. 135 all out was well short, with Archie Vaughan once more showing his liking for Marple, but this time with the ball in hand, taking 4 for 7.

 

Stockport Georgians thirds had their revenge against the third eleven, winning comfortably by 46 runs in a low scoring affair at Bowden Lane on Sunday. Georgians 117 for 8, with Sam Ittig 3 for 26, Sam Stretton 2 for 18 and Chris Lloyd 2 for 23, all doing well for Marple. Marple’s top four, Will Darby (14), Will Cheetham (10), Sam Stretton (23) and Tom Lloyd (12) all reached double figures, but no batter was able to take the team to victory. Five ducks in the innings certainly did not help matters! 71 all out was a disappointing end.

 

So, a mixed season for Marple’s senior teams. However, in all three sides, the opportunities for the younger players has been there. A good number of them have returned excellent performances, and this valuable experience should hold them in good stead going forward. Let us all hope for a full and successful 2021!

Cool Darby Sets Thirds on Course!

 Marple/Compstall thirds returned to winning ways with a fine victory over Hyde’s third eleven at Bowden Lane last Sunday.

Acting skipper Will Darby led from the front on winning the toss. He carried his bat for 85 not out in an above par Marple total of 180 for 6 in the full forty overs. He was given excellent support by Marple stalwart Andy Gichero with 29 and also young wicket keeper batsman Will Cheetham with a fine 30.

When Hyde replied they struggled against Sam Stretton who was returning from a broken thumb. He took a vital 3 for 22, and there were also wickets for Sam Ittig, Chris Sullivan and Paul Roberts. For Hyde, opening bat Mark Kohler made a fine 78 before falling to Stretton. The visitors closed on 148 for 6.

A healthy crowd, supporters of both clubs were present, made use of the Marple club’s excellent facilities.

Hat Trick Hero Clarke Polishes Off Congleton!

 Congleton, promoted to division one this season, travelled to Bowden Lane on a decidedly autumnal afternoon last Saturday, and the two sides agreed to play a forty over contest. Captain Jim Morgan won the toss and elected to take first knock. Chasing down even modest totals has proved tricky at Marple in recent seasons, and he would have hoped his batters could do him proud in the final home game of this unique season.

 Marple did not disappoint. Led by Max Fitzgerald (35) and Mark Makin (49*) they posted a very solid 170 for 7 from the full forty overs.  Mike Schofield also chipped in with a useful 19, whilst Joe Cash reminded his fans that he can still wield the willow, clubbing three late boundaries in his 12 not out. It was heartening to see Fitzgerald continue his good form, for he batted with responsibility and application hitting six fours in his innings. Makin has been Marple’s best player over the last two seasons, and he hit four fours and two sixes in a fluent knock, being deprived of a half century only by Cash’s late brutality. Jack Higginbotham, Ryan Booth and Guy Baxendale each had two wickets for the visitors.

It was not to be the day for Marple’s potent new ball attack of Jack Grundy and Ed Saxelby. They went wicketless, as Tom Leese (16) Higginbotham (38) and Simon Prime (29) got the visitors off to a good start. Morgan had class and experience at his disposal though to follow up. Andy Wylie took 2 for 30, Leese and the dangerous Goode his victims. Joe Cash cleaned up Higginbotham and finished with 2 for 15. However, star man was George Clarke, who wrapped things up for Marple in quick time with a maiden first team five wicket haul. His excellent figures were, 6.1 overs, 1 maiden and 5 for 17. He also finished the match with a hat trick. Clarke deserves his success. A club stalwart since junior days, he has worked hard on his game, making himself one of the most successful bowlers in the County League second eleven premier league over several seasons. He stepped up his fitness and bowling to gain a first team spot last year, only for a serious injury to ruin his season at the half way point. His determination to get back was duly rewarded today.

 

 By contrast, it was a day of disaster for the second team at Didsbury. Against a traditionally strong second eleven, Marple were blown away for just 48, admittedly on a pretty spicy pitch. Jamie Massey, with 16, was the only batter to reach double figures. Matt Laker, 3 for 17, and Raza Mian 3 for 5, did most of the damage for Didsbury. They only needed 11 overs to bring up a crushing ten wicket victory, Jason Jeffery 14 not out, and Basil Sultan 32 not out.

Another weekend of ups and downs for Marple Teams

as able to dominate the nagging 

Marple’s first eleven travelled to Macclesfield for two return T20 matches in this unusual and truncated season. In the first game, the home side struggled to 109 for 5 in the full twenty overs. They had been 24 for 4 at one point, with Jack Grundy, once again, producing a fine opening burst of 3 for 16. He was without his regular opening partner, Ed Saxelby today, but Andy Wylie was right on target with 1 for 11, and Tom Reeve had an impressive first team debut, despite being wicketless. Jack Massey and Finlay McCance, both with scores in the thirties, dug Macc out of a hole.

The Marple reply was sluggish on a tricky surface, and although four of the top five reached double figures, Mike Schofield top scoring with 17, no batsman was able to dominate the nagging attack led by Tom Key and Massey.  A final score of 74 for 9 was well short.

 

Marple’s batters put up a much improved performance in the second game, raising 129 for 5 in the twenty overs. Max Fitzgerald and Mark Makin hit score of 21 and 24 respectively, but it was a brutal 51 not out from skipper Jim Morgan that propelled the total up to very respectable proportions. Facing only 29 deliveries, Morgan smashed three fours and four sixes on a ground that he has enjoyed spectacular success on previously. Marple were, sadly thwarted in their bid to even things up on the day, as persistent rain meant that the game had to be abandoned at the break; no Macclesfield reply being possible.

 

In the two games between the respective second elevens at Bowden Lane it was one apiece, and honours even. The side batting second in each game were the victors both times. Marple 93 for 5, Muhammad Salman Hanif 25, Greg Marsland 23.  Canny off spinner, the veteran Rob Porter, had 3 for 9. Macc were made to work hard, but reached the target in the twentieth over for the loss of just three wickets, James Coombes 39 not out.

The second game produced a higher scoring and exciting contest. The visitors made 134 for 4, Coombes again undefeated with 41.  Porter bludgeoned 57 not out from just 36 deliveries to give Macc hopes of a double. Connor Bergin was impressive for Marple with 3 for 17. The Marple response was an excellent one, with openers Hanif (43) and Matt Barrow (30) adding a quickfire 78 for the first wicket. Good and sensible batting form Josh Kirk (22) and Greg Marsland (11*) ensured a fine five wicket  win, brought up in the last over.

A spirited effort in the field, after an underwhelming performance with the bat, brought Marple thirds some respectability at Heaton Mersey on Sunday. After openers Will Darby and Lewis Braddock had both made double figures, Marple slumped to 32 for 6. However, doughty resistance from Dan Cox (11), Tom Lloyd (14) and Sam Ittig (12) took the score to 80 all out after 30 overs. Akil Saleem, with 4 for 15, was the most successful Mersey bowler. 

When Mersey replied, despite losing Freddie Payne to Chris Lloyd for 5, they looked on course for an easy win. Once more Connor Bergin took centre stage for a Marple team. His superb 4 for 7 from eight overs almost brought up a win for Marple. Salim, with 15 not out, was calm under pressure though, and steered his side over the line. 84 for 6 (Jack Humpage 27) meant a victory for the home side, but Marple are to be commended on a fine effort after an earlier batting collapse had threatened a very short afternoon.

A spirited effort in the field, after an underwhelming performance with the bat, brought Marple thirds some respectability at Heaton Mersey on Sunday. After openers Will Darby and Lewis Braddock had both made double figures, Marple slumped to 32 for 6. However, doughty resistance from Dan Cox (11), Tom Lloyd (14) and Sam Ittig (12) took the score to 80 all out after 30 overs. Akil Saleem, with 4 for 15, was the most successful Mersey bowler. When Mersey replied, despite losing Freddie Payne to Chris Lloydfor 5, they looked on course for an easy win. Once more Connor Bergin took centre stage for a Marple team. His superb 4 for 7 from eight overs almost brought up a win for Marple. Salim, with 15 not out, was calm under pressure though, and steered his side over the line. 84 for 6 (Jack Humpage 27) meant a victory for the home side, but Marple are to be commended on a fine effort after an earlier batting collapse had threatened a very short afternoon. 

Marple’s batters put up a much improved performance in the second game, raising 129 for 5 in the twenty overs. Max Fitzgerald and Mark Makin hit score of 21 and 24 respectively, but it was a brutal 51 not out from skipper Jim Morgan that propelled the total up to very respectable proportions. Facing only 29 deliveries, Morgan smashed three fours and four sixes on a ground that he has enjoyed spectacular success on previously. Marple were, sadly thwarted in their bid to even things up on the day, as persistent rain meant that the game had to be abandoned at the break; no Macclesfield reply being possible.

 

In the two games between the respective second elevens at Bowden Lane it was one apiece, and honours even. The side batting second in each game were the victors both times. Marple 93 for 5, Muhammad Salman Hanif 25, Greg Marsland 23.  Canny off spinner, the veteran Rob Porter, had 3 for 9. Macc were made to work hard, but reached the target in the twentieth over for the loss of just three wickets, James Coombes 39 not out.

The second game produced a higher scoring and exciting contest. The visitors made 134 for 4, Coombes again undefeated with 41.  Porter bludgeoned 57 not out from just 36 deliveries to give Macc hopes of a double. Connor Bergin was impressive for Marple with 3 for 17. The Marple response was an excellent one, with openers Hanif (43) and Matt Barrow (30) adding a quickfire 78 for the first wicket. Good and sensible batting form Josh Kirk (22) and Greg Marsland (11*) ensured a fine five wicket  win, brought up in the last over.

 respectability at Heaton Mersey on Sunday. After openers Will Darby and Lewis Braddock had both made double figures, Marple slumped to 32 for 6. However, doughty resistance from Dan Cox (11), Tom Lloyd (14) and Sam Ittig (12) took the score to 80 all out after 30 overs. Akil Saleem, with 4 for 15, was the most successful Mersey bowler. When Mersey replied, despite losing Freddie Payne to Chris Lloyd for 5, they looked on course for an easy win. Once more Connor Bergin took centre stage for a Marple team. His superb 4 for 7 from eight overs almost brought up a win for Marple. Salim, with 15 not out, was calm under pressure though, and steered his side over the line. 84 for 6 (Jack Humpage 27) meant a victory for the home side, but Marple are to be commended on a fine effort after an earlier batting collapse had threatened a very short afternoon.

Marple’s batters put up a much improved performance in the second game, raising 129 for 5 in the twenty overs. Max Fitzgerald and Mark Makin hit score of 21 and 24 respectively, but it was a brutal 51 not out from skipper Jim Morgan that propelled the total up to very respectable proportions. Facing only 29 deliveries, Morgan smashed three fours and four sixes on a ground that he has enjoyed spectacular success on previously. Marple were, sadly thwarted in their bid to even things up on the day, as persistent rain meant that the game had to be abandoned at the break; no Macclesfield reply being possible.

 

In the two games between the respective second elevens at Bowden Lane it was one apiece, and honours even. The side batting second in each game were the victors both times. Marple 93 for 5, Muhammad Salman Hanif 25, Greg Marsland 23.  Canny off spinner, the veteran Rob Porter, had 3 for 9. Macc were made to work hard, but reached the target in the twentieth over for the loss of just three wickets, James Coombes 39 not out.

The second game produced a higher scoring and exciting contest. The visitors made 134 for 4, Coombes again undefeated with 41.  Porter bludgeoned 57 not out from just 36 deliveries to give Macc hopes of a double. Connor Bergin was impressive for Marple with 3 for 17. The Marple response was an excellent one, with openers Hanif (43) and Matt Barrow (30) adding a quickfire 78 for the first wicket. Good and sensible batting form Josh Kirk (22) and Greg Marsland (11*) ensured a fine five wicket  win, brought up in the last over.

 

A spirited effort in the field, after an underwhelming performance with the bat, brought Marple thirds some respectability at Heaton Mersey on Sunday. After openers Will Darby and Lewis Braddock had both made double figures, Marple slumped to 32 for 6. However, doughty resistance from Dan Cox (11), Tom Lloyd (14) and Sam Ittig (12) took the score to 80 all out after 30 overs. Akil Saleem, with 4 for 15, was the most successful Mersey bowler. When Mersey replied, despite losing Freddie Payne to Chris Lloyd for 5, they looked on course for an easy win. Once more Connor Bergin took centre stage for a Marple team. His superb 4 for 7 from eight overs almost brought up a win for Marple. Salim, with 15 not out, was calm under pressure though, and steered his side over the line. 84 for 6 (Jack Humpage 27) meant a victory for the home side, but Marple are to be commended on a fine effort after an earlier batting collapse had threatened a very short afternoon.

A spirited effort in the field, after an underwhelming performance with the bat, brought Marple thirds some respectability at Heaton Mersey on Sunday. After openers Will Darby and Lewis Braddock had both made double figures, Marple slumped to 32 for 6. However, doughty resistance from Dan Cox (11), Tom Lloyd (14) and Sam Ittig (12) took the score to 80 all out after 30 overs. Akil Saleem, with 4 for 15, was the most successful Mersey bowler. When Mersey replied, despite losing Freddie Payne to Chris Lloyd for 5, they looked on course for an easy win. Once more Connor Bergin took centre stage for a Marple team. His superb 4 for 7 from eight overs almost brought up a win for Marple. Salim, with 15 not out, was calm under pressure though, and steered his side over the line. 84 for 6 (Jack Humpage 27) meant a victory for the home side, but Marple are to be commended on a fine effort after an earlier batting collapse had threatened a very short afternoon.