GCC Early Season Match Reports 2005

Goresbrook skipper Bryan Atkins lost the toss and found himself leading his side into the field but was delighted with the immediate impact of his strike bowlers as Green were rocked by the hasty loss of four batsmen inside the first ten overs. Andrew Mitcheson and Dave Whisker both fired two wicket salvos at a cost of 6 and 5 runs respectively to shatter the expectations of the home side. Krishnan (21) settled the hosts’ nerves with a resilient 21 before being adjudged leg before to Richard Williams paving the way for the free scoring Castle to spare his sides blushes with a sparkling, unbeaten, 74. He received staunch support in the shape of Ian Gibbs who accumulated an unblemished 21 as the pair lifted Green to 133 for 5 from their allotted 40 overs.

After the interval there was to be no repeat of the earlier capitulation by their opponents as ‘Brook’s strong early order held all the aces. A combination of father and son Martin and Michael Rooke posted 41 for the first wicket before 17 year old Michael departed after stroking two fours in an enterprising knock of 20. Martin, 26 year his senior, relished the opening berth, and knuckled down for the duration of the innings. He breached the rope on seven occasions in a memorable, undefeated 55 going to his half ton in 83 balls. ‘Keeper, Simon Walker, batting at first wicket down, continued his recent purple patch producing a blend of resilient defence with some sensible running as he notched a solitary boundary in his knock of 45 and was still at the crease with Rooke when they comfortably attained their victory target with 4.2 overs and nine wickets in hand. Goresbrook 137 for 1 beat Ardleigh Green 133 for 5 by 9 wkts.

‘Brook skipper Andy Livett lost the toss and was asked to field on a good track at the M & B Annex Ground on Sunday. The Ovalites are celebrating their 25^th Anniversary having faced old friends and adversaries, Goresbrook, biannually, since their inaugural season. ‘Keeper Dave Evemy, a veteran of the first encounter, fittingly made a half century before being bowled by Lee Barwick for exactly 50. Gerald Mierzynski another founder member made 14 before yet another seasoned campaigner Andrew ‘Ernie’ Wilkes thrashed a plethora of boundaries in a superb 71 before holing out to Lee Barwick who went on to bag 3 for 55. 15 year old, Shaun Ross, returned an economical 1 for 6 from 6 overs whilst skipper, Livett, grabbed 1 for 18 as Greg Parris added a late, undefeated, 30 to steer the visitors to 205 for 5 from their allotted 35 overs.

After tea, the hosts made an ideal start as Johnny Puffa and Kurt Whisker posted an opening stand of 70 before left hander, Whisker, was adjudged leg before to O’Sullivan. His entertaining knock off 35 balls contained 6 fours and 1 towering six before ‘gloveman’ Dave Giesen entered the fray. Giesen dropped anchor allowing Puffa to go for his shots and the latter duly obliged in typical fashion with a brutal knock of 69 featuring a dozen fours and two huge sixes. Danny Walker lifted two sixes in a quickfire 21 before O’Sullivan (3 for 18) and Adam Mierzynski (2 for 37) gave the Ovalites a lifeline. In a drama drenched finish Giesen holed out on 37 and despite plucky knocks from 14 year old Jordan Calverley (12 not) and captain, Livett (6 not) the hosts failed by the narrowest of margins to secure the spoils as Surrey clinched victory by one run. Surrey Ovalites 205 for 5 beat Goresbrook 204 for 7 by 1 run.

Goresbrook finished the season with a comprehensive victory over Goodmayes & Blythswood, a miserly bowling performance on a sticky wicket providing the basis for another maximum points haul for the Dagenham men, who are promoted as runners-up to Barking from Lords International League Division One.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Goresbrook skipper Richard Williams reeled off 6 overs for just 8 runs as the Goodmayes batsmen struggled to get the ball away on a pitch still soaked from heavy midweek rain. It was Williams's opening partner, left armer Lee Ramduth, who picked up the wickets though, as Habib, Brennan and Rayit all fell within the first 10 overs. Ramduth excellence over the course of the season being rewarded on the final day, with figures of 3 for 10. With Mark Embery digging in for a dogged 16, Goresbrook further stemmed the flow of runs, as veteran seamer Dave Whisker proved equally hard to score off. Whisker's nagging length yielded just 8 runs from 7 overs and the pressure built up helped Andrew Mitcheson at the other end, the 16 year old picking up the wicket of Ravi Rattan after a breezy 11.

As the seamers tied the Goodmayes batsmen down, leg-spinner Lawrence Walsh waited in the wings, and his introduction proved the beginning of the end for the home sides innings. Walsh extracted some alarming turn as the ball gripped the pitch and his first 5 overs yielded 3 wickets for just 1 run as Phil Hand, Colin Mayor and Kevin Livingston all fell to the 43 year old. Youngster Brian Atkins eventually dismissed Embery at the other end, and when he cleaned up Stewart Stevens, the hosts were 65 for 9. Only a late flurry from home skipper Raj Boparai, who was last man out bowled round his legs by Walsh for 10, saw Goodmayes to 79, Walsh finishing with the exemplorary figures of 7.5 overs, 4 maidens, 4 wickets for 9 runs, with Atkins chipping in with 2 for 18 as Goresbrook produced a bowling performance that completely stifled the attacking instincts of the men from Goodmayes.

In reply, Goresbrook had no such problems moving the scoreboard on, as openers Kurt Whisker and Michael Rooke started fluently. Whisker was the first man to fall, for 12, as he chipped up a catch to Zahid Habib. Toby Maund fell in identical fashion to Manny Rayit for an aggressive 17 and although Richard Williamson was bowled by Habib, who picked up 2 for 39 from 7.4 overs, Rooke with an unbeaten 26 and debutant keeper Chris Burke with 5, saw the visitors home for the loss of 3 wickets in just 14.4 overs to record a 7 wicket verdict. Goresbrook 80 for 3 beat G&B 79 all out by 7 wkts.

Goresbrook started the day knowing a win would secure the Division 2 title, and would be the first time a second eleven of the club had won a trophy in their 26 year existence. It was a red hot day at the Annex ground but after all the previous weeks rain, the pitch was very damp. When skipper Johnny Puffa, back after missing the previous two games, won the toss he decided to ask Tennyson to bat. With Tennyson reaching 32 in 10 overs, it looked like he may have made an error but Nick Martin took out opener Fredericks for 16, and then Puffa made the decision to slow the pace down and bring himself into the attack. This proved a masterstroke, his wily mixture of slower balls and line and length medium pace totally bemused the Tennyson batsmen taking out Mills in his first over then the key wicket of captain Smith in his second over plumb LBW. Puffa continued to blow through the Tennyson middle order taking a total of 5 wickets for 31 runs from 8 overs, despite two easy catches being put down by Shadai Smith which could have made a total of seven wickets. Lee Barwick chipped with a fine spell of medium pace taking 2 for 9 from 6.4 overs and with Shadai Smith redeeming himself with a superb pick up and throw running out Griffin for 0, Tennyson ended 98 all out after 33.4 overs, so the decision at the toss was the right one.

In reply, it looked like 'Brook were going to win the Division in real style as Andy Livett and Matt Jones started off in fine style, before Jones was caught for a entertaining 24, when the score was on 46. Then as the champagne bottles were taken out of the ice in readiness of the end of the game, 'Brook took their eye off the ball, and started to lose wickets regularly. Winsley (6), Smith (2), Lee Barwick (18), and Puncher (0), all perished and when Livett fell for 36 Goresbrook were still 4 runs short of the win and the title. With just 4 wickets left, fittingly 16 year old Kaynal Messenger, who has been fantastic all season for the side, hit a boundary to win the game and the celebrations started right away. Goresbrook skipper Puffa added: " We have only lost two games all season, we have a great team spirit, we have youngsters and old heads and players who have come back from serious injuries and we have all played for each other. This has made my job easy, it has been a pleasure to captain them all, and we are now going to celebrate all weekend, as the 1st eleven also gained promotion from Division 1, so it could be a long celebration. I will not single out any player for special praise, as it really has been a real team effort". Goresbrook 102 for 6 beat Tennyson 98 all out by 4 wkts.

Goresbrook captain, Chris Wilding won the toss and elected to bat on a glorious afternoon at Rush Green on Saturday. The drying wicket afforded the bowlers maximum assistance with runs at a premium. Bairds’ openers Alan Guy (10) and Dave Lister (7) both saw their stumps rearranged by 15 year old Brian Kulasena who returned 2 for 18 from an excellent 5 over spell. Sonu (28) and Ahmed (23) instilled resilience to the visiting middle order but ‘Brook’s experienced triumvirate of Lee Wilkinson (3 for 5), Martin Rooke (2 for 11) and skipper Wilding (2 for 23) took full advantage of the conditions as Bairds were whittled out for 124 in little over 30 overs.

After tea ‘Brook’s top order fared no better than their opening counterparts as Adam Giesen (1), Jordan Calverley (0) and Joe Curley (6) were quickly back in the pavilion with ‘Brook teetering at 23 for 3. Sonu (1 for 10 from 8) and Imran (1 for 22) were in fine fettle with the ball as the visitors appeared favourites for victory. Joe Wilkinson and Vikas Sharma then bucked the trend with a superb partnership of 74 which swung the game back in Goresbrook’s favour. The pair initially dug in, with caution imperative, but as they grew in confidence their attacking strokes began to flourish. Wilkinson was the first to depart after fashioning 6 boundaries in an impressive 43, Sharma found the rope twice before being run out for an eye-catching 30 as the pairing perished within two balls of each other. Alarm bells sounded for the visitors as 97 for 2 became 97 for 7 thanks largely to a scintillating spell of 4 for 15 from Saggar. As the game ebbed and flowed it took the experience of seasoned campaigner, Martin Rooke and the mature approach of 15 year old Lee Roast to steady the hosts’ nerves. Rooke struck four boundaries in an undefeated 24 whilst Roast remained unbeaten on 2 as the pair saw ‘Brook home by 3 wickets with only 9 balls to spare. Goresbrook 125 for 7 beat Bairds 124 all out by 3 wkts.

Chadwell Heath II v Goresbrook I Lords International League Div 1 Sat 18/8/07

Goresbrook clinched promotion to the Premier Division of the Lords International League after a nervy 2 wicket win over Chadwell Heath second string, combined with Fords defeat to Tennyson gave 'Brook an insurmountable 31 point cushion over Fords with just one game remaining.

At the tea interval, Goresbrook looked comfortably in control of the game at St Chad 's Park, after they had dismissed Heath for 133. Only a superb 88 from opener Chay Hedges, who was last man out, took the hosts to a semi-competitive total as just skipper Steve Lugg of ther other batsmen reached double figures. Lugg and Hedges had started with a patient stand of 55, before Lugg was forced to retire hurt after taking a nasty blow to the elbow after Lee Ramduth displayed his typical accuracy when aiming to throw down the stumps. That incident disrupted the momentum of the Heath innings, and the Goresbrook bowlers who had toiled for 20 overs without reward, suddenly got amongst the wickets. Ramduth himself picked up the scalps of Mudasa and Khan and then Strong and Jarrold both went quickly before Lugg was fit to return. However the Heath skipper was bowled by his Goresbrook counterpart Richard Williams for 23 soon after resuming his innings, and Williams quickly ran through the Heath lower order, relishing the opportunity in Lawrence Walsh’s absence to bowl at prime wicket taking time. After a slow start on his return from a knee injury and after being dropped at slip in the third over by Darren Ivory, Hedges didn't offer another chance until he had all but run out of partners. He punished some short pitched bowling from spinner Maund, and played a succession of resounding drives when given any width by the pacemen. When Hedges finally fell, Heath's total of 133 looked at least 50 short on a pitch that was difficult to score quickly on, but which offered little pace & bounce for the bowlers. Goresbrook skipper Williams was the pick of the bowlers, as he took his second 5 wicket haul of the season for just 14 runs, Ramduth with 2 for 36, Ivory with 1 for 26 from 9 tidy overs and Maund 2 for 35 from 6 less tidy ones providing support.

In reply, Goresbrook were soon in command of the chase as Kurt Whisker in his usual unfussy fashion, and Dan Williamson with a few more flourishes, set about the Heath opening bowlers. The pair had added 68 before the introduction of League Secretary Steve Lugg changed the game completely. Lugg bowled Whisker round his legs for 26, and when Williamson attempted one big shot too many and played on to left arm seamer Mudasa for 35, two new batsmen were at the crease. Darren Ivory moved the score onto 87, with no sign of the impending carnage before Lugg dismissed Richard Williamson, playing an awful heave across the line and then bowled Craig Irving 2 balls later to leave Brook looking unsteady at 87 for 4. That unsteadiness rapidly became fully fledged panic, as Toby Maund was somewhat unfortunately adjudged lbw for 4 and with the Heath fielders scenting an unlikely opening, Ivory was superbly held after drilling a Lugg delivery at high velocity towards mid-off to leave Brook at 93 for 6. With the capable pairing of Tommy Puncher and Adam Ivey at the crease, Goresbrook advanced to 111 before Nelson struck and Ivey was beaten by a Lugg off-break to become the Heath skipper’s 5^th wicket. Tommy Puncher soon became his 6^th, as sensing it could be his day, Lugg held a spectacular finger-tip return catch to leave ‘Brook reeling at 114 for 8, still 20 runs short of their target.

However ‘Brook skipper Williams who came in at number 9 is seldom slow to mention that he has a pair of 1st XI league centuries to his credit and having battled for the best part of three years for promotion, he wasn’t about to give another opportunity away without a fight. Williams picked off a couple of errant deliveries from Mudasa to take the margin required down to single figures and with an edge through the slips off Don Miles and some sharp running, the score advanced to 131 for 8. Lee Ramduth’s approach to the challenge was then to take several steps down the pitch and loft Harris’s medium pace over mid-wicket to tie the scores, and with number 11 Israel Ochwo pacing the sideline nervously, Williams nudged a single through gully off the 2^nd ball of the next over to seal a nail-biting victory. Mudasa with 2 for 34 performing well with the ball, but the real star of the show was Steve Lugg, the veteran off-spinner picking up season best figures of 6 for 18.

Ironically, League Chairman Winslow Green had been hospitalised after a blow to the head playing against Goresbrook 2’s at approximately the same time that League Secretary Lugg had been scything through the Goresbrook 1’s middle order, a bowling feat that presumably ensured that Goresbrook’s karma with the League Committee remained positive…..a suggestion which appeared to be confirmed when news of Tennyson’s win at Fords II filtered though, finally sealing a long awaited promotion for Goresbrook 1’s and confirming that the 2’s will also move up a Division after their top 2 finish was confirmed last week.

It seems an age since the league was re-branded as Lords International and restructured from the old 1^st XI, 2^nd XI, 3^rd XI format. Goresbrook’s 1^st XI on the first day of the new league in 2005 (in batting order) was:

Walsh, K Whisker, Hutcheson, Williams*, Livett, Robinson +, Bird, Jones, R Schoeman, D Whisker, J Wilkinson

An XI which apart from provoking the question, “what the hell was Birdy doing in there?”, demonstrates how many talented players have come through in the past 3 seasons. Dan Williamson and Adam Ivey made their first team bow just a few weeks later along with Brian Atkins, and with Michael Rooke, Lee Ramduth, Israel Ochwo and Toby Maund following at various points in 2006 and Richard Williamson nailing down a place in 2007, virtually the entire team has changed over the course of the past 3 seasons. The knock on effect of that influx has been the strengthening of all Goresbrook XI’s and hats off to the Gen’s 2’s who will surely clinch a deserved Division 2 title this week, and also the 3’s who have had by far their best season this year, and who must start as one of the favourites for Division 3 next season.

Finally however, a mention for the opening partnership from that day in 2005, who have been virtual ever-presents over the past three years and also for Peter Ivory, who wasn’t playing on that day, but who has also been a regular over that time. With so many youngsters in the side, the presence of senior players (like the 21 year old Kurt Whisker) who perform week in week out has been invaluable for me as skipper and I look forward to having a beer at Goodmayes on Saturday with the old times, who might be the only players who can legally drink, to celebrate and start planning our Premier Division campaign. Goresbrook 134 for 8 beat Chadwell Heath II 133 all out, by 2 wickets.

Goresbrook II v Ford Sports III Lords International League Div 2 Sat 18/8/07

Ford’s captain, Adeel Mirza, won the toss and elected to take first innings on an overcast day at The May & Baker Annex Ground on Saturday. Opposing skipper Nick Martin fired a two wicket salvo when he removed Hanif for 19 quickly followed by captain, Mirza, for a duck. When Javed (7) steered a Shadi Smith delivery to Lee Barwick’s hands and Barwick himself had Nain caught for 12 courtesy of Bradley Winsley the motormen were reeling at 49 for 4. Ford were desperate for some inspiration and found it in the form of Abdul Rahman and ‘keeper Winslow Green. The former hit a plethora of boundaries before a sharp stumping from 16 year old Chris Burke from Barwick’s bowling signalled his departure having compiled 45. Green played the perfect foil with a resilient 37 as the pair lifted their side to 137 for 5 with an 88 run partnership. Paul Atkins picked up a brace of wickets to equal the exploits of colleagues Smith and Martin whilst Barwick finished with 3 for 50 from his 9 over spell. A late thrash from Janni Javid (16 not) and Numan Amin (17 not) took the visitors to a useful 195 for 9 from their 45 over entitlement.

After the tea interval, ‘Brook enjoyed a bright start as their first five batsmen all made double figures. Andrew Livett breached the rope five times in compiling 37 whilst opening partner Matthew Jones contributed 22 to an initial stand of 67. Colts prospect, Chris Burke, continued to emphasise his potential with a fine 24 and Lee Barwick followed him to the pavilion for 11. Imran Javid was instrumental in steering Fords back into the match with a three wicket haul at a cost of 32 runs. As wickets began to fall with alarming regularity Goresbrook sought some stability in their reply and Dave Giesen obliged with a splendid 34 before being run out when chasing the game. Shadi Smith supported with 10 and tail-ender Paul Atkins made a useful 7. With the last pairing of Dave Whisker and Nick Martin at the crease the game teetered on a knife edge. Requiring 3 runs from two balls Martin chanced a single from Nain’s penultimate delivery but a superb direct hit from the arm of Abdul Rahman found Brook’s skipper short of his ground securing victory for Fords by just two runs. Fords 195 for 9 beat Goresbrook 193 all out by 2 runs.

Barking skipper, Gabriel Philbert won the toss and elected to bat on an overcast afternoon at Rush Green on Saturday. This draw for the League Cup semi final pitched two of the borough’s clubs together in a drama drenched local derby. Adnan Raja (17) was the first to depart after holing out to John Aresti from the bowling of Vikas Sharma. Ashan Khan dropped anchor to occupy the crease for his sides full complement of 40 overs fashioning five boundaries in a dogged , undefeated, 66. Waqaar Khan also struck 5 boundaries in a quickfire 33 before having his stumps rearranged by colts prospect Shaun Ross. Barking were now in the ascendancy as Sill Francis powered 7 fours and a towering six before returning a catch to 15 year old Brian Kulasena having completed an excellent 51 enabling his side to amass 205 for 3. After tea ‘Brook’s early order set about the run chase and were given the ideal fillip as Brian Kulasena and Paul Maguire posted an opening stand of 67. Kulasena belied his years with a hard hitting 36 which included 5 fours and a huge six whilst the experienced Maguire continued his excellent form with the bat 3 stroking fours and six in a positive knock of 22. Vikas Sharma added 13 to continue the momentum but Sill Francis complemented his earlier form with the willow with a four wicket salvo to arrest Goresbrook’s charge. The game see-sawed as Darren Maun forced the pace, finding the rope four times in a robust 23. The introduction of spinner, Adnan Khan, gave Barking a lifeline as he yorked Chris Wilding for 5 to leave ‘Brook’s last pair requiring 23 to win. 15 year old Shaun Ross and the evergreen Keith Maund, struck up a plucky partnership with some sharp running between the wickets in the fading light. When Ross lifted Waqaar straight back over his head for four the hosts appeared on the brink of victory but the youngster was undone by Adnan Khan’s spin to clinch victory for Barking by the narrow margin of eight runs. The game was played in excellent spirit with both teams demonstrating a competitive but sporting manner. Barking now progress to the Final to be held at Fords, Newbury Park on 1^st September. Barking 205 for 3 beat Goresbrook 197 all out by 8 runs.

Belhus skipper Martin Guilbert won the toss and invited the visitors to bat on a good track at North Stifford on Sunday. With ‘Brook boasting a strong batting line-up Guilbert was left rueing his decision as the host’s top order made hay. Kurt Whisker and Michael Rooke gave the Dagenham outfit the ideal fillip compiling an opening stand of 110. 21 year old left hander, Whisker, played a captain’s innings fashioning a selection of hooks, pulls and cuts, finding the rope on 11 occasions as he went to three figures in 118 balls. Whisker remained unbeaten on 107 – his fourth century for the club. Opening partner Rooke, five years his junior, produced a compelling knock of 44 which included six boundaries before holing out to Brian Edwards. After a brief hiccup when ‘keeper Craig Irving was out for a duck, ‘Brook maintained their supremacy as Darren Ivory then Toby Maund joined Whisker at the crease. Each recorded a six and 3 fours in their totals of 24 and 23 respectively. Edwards toiled with the ball and was rewarded with 2 wickets for 32 in a tidy 8 over spell as Goresbrook closed on a challenging 216 for 5 from their 40 over entitlement. After tea, Belhus approached their target with gusto as their early order quickly found their form. Martin Guilbert (23) and Michael Cansdale (28) provided the early impetus for the hosts. Michael Fogg was in fine fettle making 54 before becoming the second of Darren Ivory’s three victims. Brian Edward’s quickfire 17 did nothing to abate the impact of leg spinner, Lawrence Walsh, whose return of 4 for 26 from 8 probing overs effectively effectively terminated any feint hopes of a Belhus victory. 17 year old Lee Ramduth, was unlucky have only one wicket to show for an economical 6 over spell which yielded only 11 runs. Richard Williams wrapped up a 61 run victory when rearranging Kenyon’s stumps to conclude proceedings. Skipper Kurt Whisker was delighted with the days events. “ On a personal note you are always pleased to record a ton but, significantly, this win puts us top of the league. Our young side continues to develop and today showed their maturity in overwhelming a competitive Belhus eleven”. Goresbrook 216 for 5 beat Belhus 155 all out by 61 runs.

Anson St. George skipper, Greg Pearce, won the toss and elected to bat at Fairlop Oak on Sunday. The home side were quick out of the blocks as their strong early order paved the way for big total on a good batting track. Openers Dave Towler with a majestic 57 and Rob McTaggert (39) compiled an opening stand of 90 as the visiting attack was put to the sword. Ian Attridge entered the fray at first wicket down and continued Goresbrook’s misery with a plethora of boundaries in a entertaining knock of 80. Teenager, Adam Giesen, managed to extract some bounce and movement from the wicket and his sterling efforts were rewarded with a 4 wicket haul at a cost of only 31 runs. 15 year old, Shaun Ross, caught the eye with a dazzling 8 over spell which earned him a brace of victims for an economical 25 runs to put a check on the Saints runaway scoring as they amassed 232 for 7 from their allotted 40 overs. After tea ‘Brook were rocked when Adam Giesen was run out without troubling the scorer. Simon Walker joined Tommy Puncher out in the middle to restore stability to the Dagenham outfit’s reply with a second wicket stand of 108. Teenager, Puncher breached the rope five times as he crafted a highly impressive 62 before he too was run out. 112 for 1 became 132 for 4 but ‘Geordie’ Walker served notice of his intentions to battle to the end as grew in confidence. The Tyneside exile produced series of textbook shots finding the boundary on eight occasions as he recorded his maiden century for the club. Walker found the perfect foil in Jeffrey Williams who contributed 26 in a partnership of 86. In a drama drenched finish Rob McTaggert produced a 3 wicket burst to curtail Goresbrook’s advances. With 15 required from Paul Evans’ last over the Saints paceman held his nerve as ‘Brook only manged to muster 8 runs giving the hosts victory by small margin of five runs with Walker left high and dry on 111 runs. Anson St George 232 for 7 beat Goresbrook 227 for 6 by 5 runs.

Goresbrook produced another fine bowling and fielding performance to move to the brink of promotion to the Premier Division of the Lords International League. Long time leaders Ford had slipped to defeat in their previous two games and after winning the toss, Goresbrook skipper Richard Williams elected to bowl in an attempt to pile the pressure on the Fords batsman. On a dry and hard looking pitch, the Ford batsman came out with all guns blazing and Krisnah Rajah played some swashbuckling shots through the off side to give Fords the early advantage. However Goresbrook skipper Williams has consistently taken early wickets this season and he obliged once again to tilt the game in his sides favour. Initially, opener Anwar aimed an ambitious drive at a good length ball and chipped the ball up to Lawrence Walsh at short extra cover. The crucial breakthroughs then came in the 10th and 12th overs as first the dangerous Chris Deverill hit the ball into what appeared to be the vacant backward point area after a leading edge. He looked to have got away with the shot until 16 year old Richard Williamson took a spectacular diving catch to leave Fords 2 wickets down. Then Rajah played a loose drive straight to Adam Ivey at mid-off to depart for 26 to leave Fords at 47 for 3.

Paceman Israel Ochwo followed up with a tidy spell to keep the pressure on Fords and he removed experienced campaigner Clem Rolle before Goresbrook's spinners took over. It hasn't been a vintage season with the ball for Lawrence Walsh, as the damp seam friendly pitches and a bout of food poisoning have conspired against the veteran all-rounder, however on Saturday with Ford struggling at 56 for 4, Walsh produced a mesmerising spell on a pitch offering turn. The 42 year old reeled off a miserly spell of 9 overs, 5 maidens, 2 wickets for 7 runs as Goresbrook turned the screws on Fords. The dangerous Eric Thomas, who has rescued his side numerous times this year, departed for a duck after picking out Richard Williamson with a loose cut shot and then Raheel Gabriel attemped a suicidal second run as the pressure mounted and was run out also without scoring. Badat then lifted his back foot and was sharply stumped by Peter Ivory and the Ford innings was in terminal decline. Off-spinner Toby Maund supported Walsh well from the other end and he picked up the wicket of Fasal Rehman before finally ending the lone vigil of Husnain Abbas who had battled for an hour and half for 27. Lee Ramduth then produced a direct hit to finish proceedings and Fords had been skittled for 93, Williams with 3 for 24 and Maund 2 for 16 along with the excellent Walsh doing most of the damage.

In reply, Fords were soon amongst the Goresbrook batsmen, as Kurt Whisker fell second ball, a rare failure in a prolific season for the 21 year old. Walsh was soon alongside him on the sidelines as he missed a straight one from Gabriel to be adjudged lbw and at 9 for 2, 'Brook looked jittery. However 17 year old Michael Rooke kept a calm head and he scored a composed 31 before falling to Prishant Roy with the total on 59. That left 16 year olds Richard Williamson and Toby Maund at the crease and the youngsters closed out the game in nerveless fashion, Williamson continuing his excellent debut season in the first team with an unbeaten 28 and Maund completing a tidy all round performance with 10 not out, as Goresbrook passed Fords total in the 22nd over. With the victory, Goresbrook closed to within 4 points of leaders Barking, but more importantly moved 15 points clear of Fords in third. Goresbrook 94 for 3 beat Ford Sports 93 all out by 7 wkts

Goresbrook II v Leyton County II Lords International League Div 2 Sat 11/8/07

Top of the table Goresbrook dug deep to record a satisfying three wicket victory at the idyllic setting of the Old County Ground on Saturday. Home skipper, Dorian Thorne, won the toss and elected to bat but was rueing his decision as pacemen, Shadi Smith and Nick Martin, each grabbed an early wicket. Shahzad Akhtar (38) and Tausif Patel (30) settled the hosts nerves with a third wicket stand of 70 but Paul Atkins regained the upper hand for ‘Brook as he fired a 3 wicket salvo at a cost of 33 runs. Amrital Harrad demonstrated dogged resistance for the hosts – his unbeaten 38 being the highlight of County’s exertions with the willow. Harrad enjoyed a hard fought duel with left arm spinner, Danny Walker, the latter was in unswerveable mood as he produced a scintillating spell of 4 for 38 from 9 entertaining overs. Dave Whisker picked up the other wicket to fall as Leyton were restricted to 165 all out from 42.2 overs. After tea, Goresbrook got off to the worse possible start when Dave Giesen was bowled for a diamond duck by Sheikh. Stability was restored thanks to a combination of wily experience from Matthew Jones and the exciting exuberance of teenager Chris Burke. The pair gradually built the foundations of a match winning reply posting 102 for the second wicket. Jones was the first to depart, trapped leg before by Akhter, after finding the rope six times in an impressive 39. 16 year old Robert Clack schoolboy, Burke, continued his rich vein of form stroking 4 boundaries in a majestic knock of 45. Skipper Darren Robinson took up the gauntlet as wickets began to fall with alarming regularity, displaying an unusually sedate side to his batting. Robinson watched, bemused, at the non-strikers end as a series of rash shots and suicidal advances down the wicket put ‘Brook in a precarious position. Glove-man Thorne bagged a couple of sharp stumpings but Robinson would not capitulate as the visitors lost 4 wickets in the space of seven runs. He found an unlikely ally in Paul Atkins who defended admirably to make a useful, unbeaten 6. Robinson finished undefeated on a chanceless 41 including 3 fours, as Goresbrook edged to dramatic 3 wicket success. Goresbrook 166 for 7 beat Leyton County 165 all out by 3 wkts

Goodmayes & Blythswood II v Goresbrook III Lords International League Cup Sat 11/8/07

Goresbrook skipper, Chris Wilding lost the toss but was surprised when his side were invited to bat on a glorious afternoon at Goodmayes Park on Saturday. The visitors were given the ideal start as an opening combination comprising Goresbrook’s senior player Paul Maguire and 15 year old Brain Kulasena accumulated 59 runs before the latter departed having struck 4 fours and a six in an impressive 29. Maguire drew on all his experience grinding out 6 boundaries in a dogged knock of 45. Teenagers Adam Giesen (23) and Vikas Sharma (10) maintained the initiative for the Dagenham outfit setting the stage for the introduction of Jo Wilkinson and ‘keeper Steve Rooke for an eight over assault on the home attack. The pair mixed hard hitting with sharp running between the wickets as they compiled an unbroken stand of 68. Wilkinson thrashed 3 fours and 2 towering sixes finishing two runs shy of a half century. Rooke bludgeoned 3 fours and a huge six in an exciting, unbeaten, 35 enabling ‘Brook to close on a daunting 228 for 4 from their allotted 40 overs. Kevin Reinhardt was the most successful member of the home attack bagging 3 wickets at a cost of 59 runs. After tea the hosts hit the ground running as openers Paul Brennan (29) and Vinod Patel (27) got off to the ideal start. At 93 for 2 the ‘GeeBees’ were marginal favourites for victory but the introduction of Goresbrook talisman, Chris Wilding, quickly dispelled their hopes. Backed by some excellent fielding Godwin Schoolmaster Wilding, decimated the hosts’ middle order with scintillating eight over spell which yielded five wickets for only 21 runs. Jo Wilkinson held two sensational catches in the deep as five Goodmayes & Blythswood wickets fell in the space of 14 runs. Lee Cullum offered brief respite with 16 and David Eyres did his best to stave off the visiting attack with an undefeated 27. The return of seamer, Ian Harris, brought a two wicket salvo which extinguished any rearguard action from the home side and left Peter Preston at the crease with Eyres as G & B concluded their reply on 156 for 9 from their 40 over entitlement. Goresbrook have endured a difficult passage in reaching the semi final, but the scalps of the third division’s top two sides have demonstrated the club’s appetite for cup competition. A difficult tie against Barking 3rds stands between them and a place in the final. Goresbrook 228 for 4 beat G&B 156 for 9 by 72 runs.

The familiar surroundings of Cricketfield Lane at Bishop’s Stortford was the idyllic setting for this friendly encounter. Goresbrook skipper Dave Whisker and his side were invited to bat. Brook’s Darren Ivory was in swashbuckling mood with the bat lashing 8 fours and a towering six in a superb, quickfire, 50. Michael Rooke struck 2 fours and a huge six in an eye catching 25 whilst Chris Wilding (12) and Paul Calverley with a personal best 19 enabled the visitors to post an under par 153 all out from exactly 40 overs. Nathan Sewell and Dave Parker captured three wickets apiece as Stortford tightened their stranglehold on the match. After tea, Goresbrook grabbed two quick wickets courtesy of Whisker and Ivory but Graham Smith settled the hosts nerves with a dogged, unbeaten, 42. Parker completed an excellent all round display with an impressive 51 whilst Dave Killie supported with 28 as the home side cruised to a comfortable 6 wicket victory. Bishop’s Stortford 328 for 5 in 45 overs beat Goresbrook 230 all out in 41 overs by 98 runs.

Old Southendians & Southchurch v Goresbrook I Spa-Tec Essex Sunday League 5/8/07

Goresbrook's recent impressive form in the Sunday League continued as they defeated Old Southendians on a scorching day at Southchurch Park on Sunday. Goresbrook Skipper Bryan Atkins won the toss and instantly elected to bat on what was the old Essex County Ground. Despite the glorious weather and excellent batting track 'Brook disappointed in the batting department, managing only 170 before being dismissed by the home side. Things went wrong in the 2nd over as the dangerous Kurt Whisker took on a dodgy second run to Southendians overseas star Jordan which resulted in the lefthander being run out for just 2. Lawrence Walsh and Richard Williamson were also dismissed early on leaving Michael Rooke (20) and Toby Maund (30) to begin the rebuilding process. The dismissals of Rooke and Maund saw another mini collapse as Irving (11) and Puncher (13) departed soon after. Skipper Atkins took the attack to the home side in a blistering knock of 20 before he made way for the day's hero, Lee Ramduth. Ramduth better known for his swing bowling demonstrated his batting prowess with a crisp 40 before being the last man out.

170 runs never really looked like a daunting task to the home side having reached 300 plus the previous day. However, Goresbrook who are renowned for their fighting qualities caught the homesters cold as Ramduth (3 for 39) and Alex Harvey (2 for 14) blitzed the top order in excellent opening spells which put the game in the favour of the visitors. With a promising partnership developing between Southendians skipper Johnson and the classy Jordan, Atkins turned to the ever reliable Lawrence Walsh to turn the tide as he has done so often in the past. Walsh answered his skippers call by dismissing both Johnson and Jordan in the same over to record figures of 2 for 22. With the game now in the bag the formalities were completed by Kurt Whisker (1 for 1) and Richard Williamson (1 for 3) in what was a thoroughly impressive bowling and fielding performance. Skipper Atkins commented; " It was another good performance from the lads today. Having let ourselves down with the bat we turned it round superbly in the field. Lee Ramduth was superb today and showed us he is a capable batsman as well as terrific bowler. I hope we can continue to show this sort of character for the rest of season, both in the Sunday League and on a Saturday". Goresbrook 170 all out beat OS&S 111 all out by 59 runs.

21 year old all-rounder Kurt Whisker was the star of the show as Goresbrook thrashed Asian second string by 10 wickets to set up a huge promotion clash with Fords next Saturday. Whisker picked up 5 wickets in his first Saturday bowling appearance of the season and then followed up with an unbeaten 43 as Goresbrook overhauled Asians total in little over 16 overs.

After winning the toss, Goresbrook skipper Richard Williams elected to bowl on a pitch that despite the recent fine weather, had a generous covering of grass which was expected to assist the Goresbrook seam attack. So it proved, as Lee Ramduth’s second ball reared from a good length over the batsman’s head and the 6’5" Williams found some alarming bounce. Williams dismissed Asians opener Umer in his first over and from thereon, wickets fell at regular intervals. Only Asian’s opener Sikander Butt reached double figures, as he struck a violent 45 either through midwicket or over the slips having clearly reached the conclusion that attack was the best form of defense on an uneven wicket, particularly against the accurate Ramduth. However, although Ramduth’s skiddy style of bowling wasn’t best suited to the pitch, the introduction of the quicker Whisker proved decisive. Whisker hadn’t bowled in the Saturday league prior to last weekend, as the wet slow pitches hadn’t suited his brand of very short, or very full pace bowling. This pitch was a different story though and Whisker picked up a career best 5 for 15 off 8 overs. Two of his wickets were caught behind after well directed bouncers and a further two were a clean bowled and an lbw after full deliveries. His fifth wicket came courtesy of a spectacular diving catch from Adam Ivey as once again Goresbrook’s fielding impressed. With Whisker wreaking havoc from one end, Williams and Israel Ochwo kept the pressure on from the other, Williams picking up 2 for 22 and Ochwo 2 for 27. Ochwo in particular had the batsmen running for cover with one of his better spells of the season as Goresbrook eventually wrapped up the Asian innings for 109.

In reply, a few anxious moments were anticipated, but never materialized as Michael Rooke and Kurt Whisker attacked anything loose and dodged anything short. The pair passed fifty in the 11^th over with only a few blows to the gloves as punishment and then as the Asian bowling and fielding grew ragged, the remaining 60 runs were knocked off in just over 5 overs as Rooke in particular started to look in complete control. Rooke ended unbeaten on 35, with Whisker consolidating his position behind Barking’s Garnet Shallow in the run-scorers like with 43 not out. Goresbrook’s victory, combined with Fords’ unexpected last ball defeat against May & Baker 2’s has given Barking pole position in the Division One title race with the Maysbrook Park men looking strong favourites for the title. The second promotion spot is now wide open though and with only 4 points in it, the winners of next Saturday's Goresbrook – Ford clash at the M&B Annex ground will take control. Goresbrook 110 for 0 beat Asian 109 all out by 10 wkts.

Goresbrook skipper Johnny Puffa won the toss on a sweltering day in Dagenham and elected to make use of the r
heat and the flat Annex pitch. It looked like a mistake when opener David Giesen fell third ball for 2, but that brought Darren Ivory to the crease and he and fellow opener Andrew Livett put on a very steady partnership, building the run rate gradually. They put on 102 for the 2nd wicket, before Ivory fell for a dogged 42 from 72 balls including 9 fours. His departure brought Puffa to the wicket and he maintained the flow of runs with Livett, with the score on 123 at the 30 over stage, it was going to take a big increase in the rate to post a par score, and that is what happened. Livett and Puffa added 110 runs before Livett fell for splendid 94, his knock contained 10 fours and one six and lasted 96 balls, before the 44 year old holed out right on the boundary rope just 6 runs shy of his hundred. With in-form Smith out for just 6 and Puncher and Burke falling for 3 and 0 respectively, Puffa took the bull by the horns and struck a fine undefeated 66 form just 57 balls, his innings included 5 fours and a six as Brook ended on 250 for 6 in their allotted 45 overs. Ross Rafferty was the pick of the visiting attack taking 3 for 57. In reply Athletic decided to attack from the first ball and were on 29 after just 3 overs. Emmanuel continued the positive route until he was caught by Giesen off the bowling of Smith for 26. Rivers was then bowled by Martin for 17 and Broad then fell for 22, and as the wickets fell the run rate started to go up. Puffa then bowled a fine spell of nagging seam and with the spin of fellow 39 year old Ivory, Brook finally gained the upper hand. In fact Puffa and Ivory both took 3 scalps each, which sent 'Brook on the way to a comfortable win. Puffa (3 for 30 from 9 overs) and Ivory (3 for 11 from 3.3 overs) were the pick of the Goresbrook attack. Skipper Davis (24) and Jeffreys (18) kept going for the win near the end, but 'Brook cruised in to an inevitable 74 run win. This win keeps Goresbrook clear at the top of Division 2, but 'Brook will be decimated next week by injuries and holiday absences, so the title is by no means in the bag yet. Vice skipper Nicholas Martin added ; " That was a really tough game to have following the defeat last week, but we proved today that we are a really strong outfit. "We are a match for any team in this division, the game at Leyton County now looks a massive one and we are missing vital players also, but we are right up for the task ahead. " Goresbrook 250 for 6 beat HA 176 all out by 74 runs.

In a competitive Sunday friendly, Goresbrook's 2nd string managed a fine one run victory against a very strong Forest Gate side. After losing the toss 'Brook were put into bat on a flat looking wicket. Openers Tommy Puncher and Simon Walker put on a fine 116 partnership for the 1st wicket in just 19 overs before Walker was adjudged LBW for 35. Puncher followed shortly after for a career best 68, an innings which included 9 fours and lasted just 61 balls. With Ramduth (12), debutant Andrew Calverly (11) and Darren Maun (18) all chipping in, Goresbrook looked on course for 200 runs. James Hare then hit a fine 31 not out in just 19 balls to enable 'Brook to post 212 for 9 in their allotted 40 overs. Zafran (3 for 21) and Sharif (3 for 31) were the pick of the Forest Gate attack. In reply, Malik (40), Guri (43) and Sharif (33) all batted in positive fashion and with Hussain (14), Farooq (19) and Singh (16) all contributing, it was always going to go to the wire. Johnny Puffa (2 for 40) and Lee Ramduth (2 for 23) bowled well, with Hare (1 for 31) and Darren Maun (1 for 42) also taking wickets, but it was left to Tommy Puncher to round off a fine individual performance taking two wickets for 39 and also bowling the last over for just 2 runs enabling Brook to edge over the winning line with one run to spare. Goresbrook 212 for 9 beat Forest Gate 211 for 9 by 1 run.

Goresbrook’s promotion hopes took a potentially terminal blow after a comprehensive defeat at home to mid-table Tennyson. The hosts usually reliable batting line up failed to put any significant partnerships together, as first Andrew Moffat and then Michael Ray utilized the overcast conditions to produce spells of swing and seam bowling that Goresbrook’s batsmen, Adam Ivey apart, had no answer to. In reply, although Goresbrook put in maximum effort and used 6 different bowlers, none could prise out Tennyson opener Paul Lewis, whose unbeaten 50 saw his side home for a 7 wicket victory. After electing to bat, Goresbrook had advanced to a watchful 21 against some probing swing bowling from Moffat and Danny Ray before Kurt Whisker was deceived by a Moffat slower ball that took the top of off-stump after he’d mustered 9 runs. Michael Rooke added a streaky 12 before he was bowled by spinner Bal Patel and out of form veteran Andy Livett followed immediately, chopping a ball from Moffat back onto his stumps for 16. At 36 for 3, Goresbrook needed a spell of consolidation and Lawrence Walsh and Richard Williamson provided it briefly, advancing the score onto 54 for 3 before the introduction of Michael Ray into the attack after an excellent 9 over spell of 2 for 18 from Moffat, saw Walsh play a loose shot away from his body to edge to keeper Watson for 13. Another promising partnership was ended by Ray when Williamson chipped up a return catch for 11 and at 83 for 5 Goresbrook’s ambitions had been revised to a total approaching 180.

At 110 for 5 with Adam Ivey going well along with skipper Richard Williams, that seemed realistic, however Williams’s departure adjudged lbw for 9, sparked a collapse. First Ivey undid most of his good work to be bowled for 48 aiming an expansive drive at Jay Brigden’s medium pacers and then Brian Atkins and Peter Ivory fell quickly for ducks, leaving Goresbrook reeling. Israel Ochwo was quickly dismissed for 2 to complete Ray’s five wicket haul leaving Lee Ramduth stranded on 7 not out and Goresbrook requiring another spectacular bowling and fielding performance to get out of jail, as their total of 135 was a good 70 runs short of a par total on the usually placid M&B Annex strip.

In reply, Tennyson opener Lewis looked to drop anchor, whilst the batsmen at the other end blazed away, a tactic that looked like backfiring after the Ray brothers both went early, Michael bowled by Ramduth for 8 and Danny well held by Richard Williamson off the bowling of Michael Rooke for 15. However a brisk cameo of 23 from Jay Brigden combined with 20 leg byes and some increasingly fluent strokes from Lewis saw Tennyson over the hundred mark before Brigden was bowled by Ramduth. With victory in sight, Tennyson were helped over the line by some wayward bowling from Israel Ochwo, who conceded 12 wides in an erratic second spell, after being very unlucky not to bowl Goresbrook back into the game in a well directed first stint. Tennyson eventually coasted home for the loss of only 3 wickets with 11 overs to spare, Lee Ramduth with 2 for 35 being the pick of the Goresbrook bowlers. Tennyson 136 for 3 beat Goresbrook 135 all out by 7 wkts

In this top of the table clash, the toss was always going to be vital and yet again Goresbrook skipper Johnny Puffa duly lost it. Barking decided to put 'Brook into bat on a damp but flat looking pitch. Daniel Williamson started in positive fashion hitting three majestic boundaries before trying one shot too many and holing out for 17, whilst Dave Giesen dug in at the other end. Wickets then began to tumble on a regular basis, with spinner Zubir Mahmood and left arm seamer brother Umar Mahmood brought into the attack. Darren Ivory (12), Puffa (2), Lee Barwick (0), Puncher (9) and Rooke(2) all fell cheaply and when Giesen finally fell for a spirited 21 'Brook were languishing on 77 for 7,with both Mahmoods taking 3 wickets each. Then 16 year olds Shadai Smith and Andrew Mitcheson decided to take the attack to the Barking bowlers, showing why this side has been so hard to beat this season. The pair put on a really brisk 45 in just 9 overs before Mitcheson fell for a fine 27, an innings which included four boundaries . Tailender Atkins then joined Smith and they put on another 44 runs in the next 9 overs before Atkins was caught in the deep for 15, with the score on 166. Another vital 20 runs was then added by Smith and genuine number 11 Martin, before Smith was bowled by Saeed for a fantastic 55. His knock lasted just 44 balls and included nine superb boundaries and enabled Brook to post an under par but very respectable 186 all out, especially after being 77 for 7 with just 20 overs remaining of the 45. Umar Mahmood (3 for 18 in 9 overs) and Zubir Mahmood (3 for 17 in 9 overs) were the pick of the Barking attack. In reply, on a drying wicket, Barking decided their best way to win the game was to be positive from the outset, with Shafiq and Zubir Mahmood blazing from ball one, against the pace of Mitcheson and Martin. Mahmood was caught in the deep splendidly by Darren Ivory for 23, and Mughal fell quickly to Martin for 0 as 'Brook got into the game, but Shafiq (37), Gupta (37) and Saeed (36) all maintained the positive approach, and the luck seemed to be with the homesters as edges and air shots did not go to hand. It was that sort of day for Goresbrook as their bowlers bowled fine but did not look like threatening. Mitcheson (1 for 42), Martin (1 for 32), Puffa (1 for 26) and Atkins (1 for 18), all chipped in before Smith came on and added that vital extra pace and he duly took 2 for 19 to complete a fine all round performance, but it was Barking who came through to win with 4 wickets to spare, ending the last 100% record of all divisions of the Lords League. Skipper Puffa added; " The toss was vital and yet again I called it wrong, but we were second best all day today, our lower order bailed us out and gave us a competitive total but we knew on that wicket it would be tough to defend. Our bowling was not quite what it has been all season and we even dropped a couple of sharp chances, we have been holding onto in other games. We need to get back to our best next week, and the destiny of the league title is still firmly in our own hands". Barking 189 for 6 beat Goresbrook 186 all out by 4 wkts.

Goresbrook skipper, John Aresti, lost the toss at Fairlop Oak and his opposite number, Paul French, duly invited the visitors to bat on a green track. Runs were at a premium evidenced by the early departure of the in-form Paul Maguire for 5. Captain, Aresti (18) and teenager, Vikas Sharma (11) consolidated as Lee French (2 for 10) and Eric Washbourne (1 for 16) enjoyed the better of the early exchanges. Keeper Simon Walker and Jo Wilkinson drew on their experience with each batsman fashioning 22 to lift Goresbrook’s tally. Colts prospect, James Hare, dug in with an eye-catching 13 but Jason Plater (3 for 27) and Dave Jones (3 for 39) ripped through ‘Brook’s late order to restrict them to 122 all out from 36.2 overs. After the tea interval, Ian Harris and Sanil Waghela gave nothing away completing economical spells whilst securing a wicket apiece. Vikas Sharma then produced a superb spell of seam bowling bagging 4 for 11 from 6 excellent overs. Lee Wilkinson atoned for his earlier golden duck bowling a majestic 8 over spell of which five were maidens yielding only four runs whilst bagging two wickets. Chris Wilding continued his purple patch returning 2 for 13 as none of the home batsmen managed to record double figures. Taverners were shot out for only 54 runs from 31.2 overs as Goresbrook progressed to the second round of the cup courtesy of a 68 run victory. Goresbrook 122 all out beat NHT 54 all out by 68 runs.

Goresbrook were the guests of old friends and adversaries, Belhus, at North Stifford on Friday. Visiting captain, Bryan Atkins, won the toss and elected to bat first on a good track. Sydney Russell Sixth-former, Michael Rooke was in majestic mood from the outset, stroking a plethora of boundaries in a superb knock of 83. 16 year old Rooke, produced an exquisite series of cuts, pulls and drives, finding the rope 13 times, before holing out to Jimmy Robertson from the bowling of Alan Maidment. ‘Brook’s early order maintained the tempo as Lawrence Walsh (24), Simon Walker (17) and Jo Wilkinson (10) made useful contributions with the willow. 17 year old skipper Atkins provided the late impetus for the Dagenham outfit lashing 39 to steer his side to a total of 226 for 9 from their allotted 40 overs. Maidment was the pick of the home attack returning 3 for 40. After tea a hostile spell from Dave Whisker brought two wickets at a cost of 12 runs but solid contributions from Ian Wright (19) and Barry Palmer (11) gave the hosts brief respite. Darren Ivory demonstrated his talent with the ball returning 2 for 10 from 8 overs as Belhus struggled to maintain the run chase. The in-form Chris Wilding put paid to any aspersions of a home victory with a majestic spell with the ball. The Godwin schoolmaster produced a four wicket haul to effectively terminate any resistance form the hosts. A late thrash from Jimmy Robertson (20) and Alan Maidment (16) was not enough to see Belhus to the respectability of a three figure total as they were whittled out for 93 handing Goresbrook a comfortable 118 run victory. Goresbrook 226 for 9 beat Belhus 93 all out by 133 runs.

Goresbrook ran out narrow victors in this epic Sunday League encounter at the Pegasus Club, Corringham as the visitors reached the winning target with just three balls to spare. Goresbrook skipper Bryan Atkins lost the toss on a ground well known for high run scoring and was invited to field. Goresbrook began the game well as Alex Harvey (2 for 39) bowled a consistent, nagging length which tempted Bonnet and Cains into rash shots which brought about their early dismissals. Pegasus soon recovered as Sagers (51) and Laird (31) took the attack to the bowlers before Laird was bowled by Kurt Whisker and Sagers caught spectacularly at point by skipper Atkins off the bowling of Michael Rooke. After what looked to be a position strength for Pegasus soon turned into a collapse as Atkins (2 for 37), Rooke (2 for 25) and Sunday League debutant Darren Maun (2 for 27) ripped through the homesters batting line up. Pegasus eventually closed on 201 for 9 from their allotted 40 overs which was a testament to the bowling and fielding of the depleted 'Brook line-up which was missing numerous key players due to injury and long term illness.

Brook started their reply expertly as in-form Kurt Whisker (42) set about the home attack sharing an opening stand of 70 with Michael Rooke. Enter Danny Laird. The Ex Tilbury and Grays and Chadwell all rounder sought to single handedly change the game as he first tempted Whisker to hook a bouncer to fine leg before ripping the heart out of the Brook middle order in a pacy spell of 6 for 22. Despite the destruction caused by Laird, Rooke carried along untroubled as he hit a sublime 75 which looked to be carrying the visitors to a comfortable victory. However, the game changed once more as Rooke holed out to long on which left Brook's lower order exposed. This brought the experienced duo of Dave Giesen and Jo Wilkinson to the crease at a difficult time as the run rate required hit 7 runs per over with just 3 wickets intact. Giesen played a stout determined knock of 18 not out which allowed the more expansive Wilkinson to go for broke as the tall right hander proceed to thrash the ball to all parts in a violent innings. With 4 balls remaining and 2 required for victory, Wilkinson blazed the ball to the midwicket boundary to see the visitors home in an amazing encounter. Skipper Atkins was beside himself after the game: "The lads were outstanding today, we had a few key players missing but those who came in did the job superbly. Dave Giesen and Jo Wilkinson showed great nerve towards the end after Michael had set the platform. I am proud of everyone today - it was a memorable win". Goresbrook 203 for 7 beat P&C 201 for 9 by 3 wkts.

Goresbrook cruised to a 7 wicket victory over Hawks to keep the pressure on leaders Fords in Division 1. Goresbrook skipper Richard Williams did the damage with the new ball to pick up a 5 wicket haul, and his vice-captain Kurt Whisker finished the job with the bat with a superb 82. Goresbrook won despite a scare after Hawks batsman Imran Arshad smashed a superb unbeaten 108 to lead his side to an improbable total of 191, after they were earlier reduced to 44 for 7.

After winning the toss, Hawks elected to bat, but were soon under pressure as Williams was somewhat fortunate to pick up the wickets of Perreira and Grant in his opening over courtesy of poor batting and some erratic bounce from a damp wicket. However once into his stride, the big Yorkshireman hit a dangerous line and length on a pitch offering seam movement. Left hander Baz Haque was worked over by some accurate bowling before top edging an
attempted pull to mid-on. Ozzie Joseph then lost his off stump offering no shot to a ball that jagged back sharply, and Summit was also bowled by a ball that cut in to complete a 5 wicket haul for the Goresbrook skipper. With Lee Ramduth bowling his usual tidy spell from the other end and Israel Ochwo marking his introduction into the attack by comprehensively yorking Lance Lord first ball, Goresbrook reduced Hawks to 44 for 7 and the game looked set for an early finish. However Arshad was looking to take the attack to the bowlers in counter attack and had started to strike some stylish shots when he was joined by Junior Cole. The two added nearly 50 before Cole was bowled by Andrew Mitcheson. By this stage Goresbrook had dropped 3 catches, as concentration levels lapsed with the too many players assuming that the game had already been won. With Goresbrook's bowling and fielding deteriorating by the over, Arshad took full advantage with some clean hitting on his way to a violent hundred, as Williams rotated his bowlers to no avail. It took the re-introduction of Lee Ramduth into the attack to dismiss number 10 batsman Lafond for 17 and Ramduth quickly removed number 11 Monroe to end the visitors innings on 191, however a near century partnership for the 9th wicket had brought Hawks back into the game. Williams was the pick of the Goresbrook bowlers with 5 for 26, Ramduth eventually being rewarded with 3 for 48.

With 191 looking a testing target, a good start was vital for Goresbrook, and veteran opener Andy Livett provided the early impetus with some straight hitting, before being adjudged lbw for 19. Michael Rooke then continued the
progress, hinting at a return to form with some stylish shots before he was caught behind for 21. Rooke's dismissal brought Richard Williamson to the crease to join Kurt Whisker, and they took the game away from Hawks with an
excellent partnership. Whisker showed his full range of strokes in a chanceless 82, before he was caught on the midwicket boundary with the scores tied as he looked to finish the game in style. Williamson hit an aggressive unbeaten 41 and once again impressed with his positive approach and speedy running between the wickets, as Goresbrook overhauled their target for the loss of just 3 wickets. With promotion rivals Fords and Barking meeting next weekend, the promotion race in Division One is reaching a crucial stage and Williams was delighted that his key players look to be hitting form. "Kurt Whisker is now the leading run-scorer in all Divisions, and Richard Williamson has really put his marker down with some stunning performances in recent weeks. Our bowling is a bit inconsistent, but the good thing is that we look like taking wickets. We've got Lawrence Walsh to come back into the side when he's fit again and Darren Ivory came back with an unbeaten 60 in the second team at the weekend after a knee injury, so there is real competition for places in the middle order, and that bit of experience could
be crucial as the pressure mounts." Goresbrook 192 for 3 beat hawks 191 all out by 7 wkts.

After 24 hours of the heaviest rain seen in years, it was remarkable the game would even take place, but good drainage produced a very green but playable pitch. Goresbrook skipper Johnny Puffa won the toss and elected to put Grays into bat. Nick Martin showing signs of a comeback to early season bowling form struck early taking Wren with the total on 7 caught by Puffa at slip, but with Shadai Smith not at his best and some dogged but positive batting, Grays got to 71 for 2 in just 16 overs. Puffa decided to alter the attack bringing himself on and Paul Atkins also in a double change, and the next 8 overs produced 0 runs at all and 1 wicket with Puffa taking opener Buckley, plum lbw for 20. Puffa and Atkins bowled their 9 overs straight off, with Puffa recording amazing figures of 1 for 5 which included 7 maidens out of the 9 overs. Atkins 9 overs went for 21 with 4 maidens and he got one wicket also. Ivory's spin produced 1 for 20 from 6 and Lee Barwick playing his 600th game for the club came on and took 2 for 15 in 4 overs, with Martin returning to take Love for 6. Grays & Chadwell ended on 144 for 9 off their allotted 45 overs. In reply, league leaders 'Brook were in danger of losing their 1st game of the season as reliable openers Jones (10) and Williamson (9) both fell with the score on only 25, but enter 39 year old school pals Darren Ivory and Johnny Puffa. Ivory playing only his second league game of the campaign scored a watchful to start with, but very fluent, 61 not out. His knock included 2 big sixes and 9 fours and lasted 73 balls. Along with Puffa they added 90 runs taking the score to 115, before Puffa fell for an entertaining 45, from 51 balls and which included 7 fours. With Bryan Atkins coming in to join Ivory and hitting 11 not out 'Brook won the game by a comfortable 7 wickets with 15 overs to spare, making 11 wins out of 11 games played. Vice captain Nick Martin added; "Another tricky looking game dealt with in our usual positive fashion, special mention for Lee Barwick making his 600th appearance for the club". "After 3 years of injuries, to come back and play like he has deserves a lot of credit". "We have Barking next week in what could be a title decider, and we intend to keep our 100% record intact". Goresbrook 145 for 3 beat G&C 144 for 9 by 7 wkts.

Bishop’s Challenor captain, John McCarthy, elected to bat first at Newbury Park on Saturday afternoon. In a game played in a competitive but sporting atmosphere Goresbrook’s seamers toiled in the quest for wickets as opener James Sullivan crafted a superb 65. Mark Hortop (13) provided early support and Tom Simpson continued the good work with the bat striking an impressive 35. Chris Wilding offered brief respite for the visitors bagging 2 for 37 whilst Ian Harris, Tommy Puncher and Lee Wilkinson picked up a wicket apiece. Skipper McCarthy added an unbeaten 16 to accelerate the scoring rate in the final overs as ‘Challenor closed on 157 for 5 from their reduced entitlement of 42 overs. After tea, John Aresti was quickly back in the pavilion for 2 but Paul Maguire (17) and Tommy Puncher (16) knuckled down to build the reply. Brent Roberts (3 for 17) inflicted the early damage for the hosts complemented by a two wicket salvo from Tom Simpson. ‘Keeper Simon Walker (19), Lee Wilkinson (12) and colts prospect, Brian Kulasena (11) and were the other ‘Brook batsmen to record double figures. An impressive four wicket haul from Mark Hortop at a cost of only 14 runs effectively put paid to any hopes of a recovery for the Dagenham outfit. The hosts outclassed their opponents recording victory by a margin of 52 runs to knock Goresbrook off the top spot. Bishop's Challenor 157 for 5 beat Goresbrook 105 all out by 52 runs.

Goresbrook skipper, Bryan Atkins, won the toss and elected to bat at Shenfield on Sunday. Darren Ivory lashed 5 fours and 2 sixes in an impressive knock of 44. Craig Irving (25) and Jo Wilkinson (14) supported from middle order berths whilst skipper Atkins provided a late flurry hitting 3 fours and a five in a rapid 17. Aussie Hanna’s eye catching return of 4 for 25 put paid to any hopes of a big Goresbrook tally as they were all out for 152. After the tea interval, Hanna completed a fine all round performance with 74 whilst Cunniew complemented his colleague’s efforts stroking 54. Richard Williams, Andy Livett, Michael Rooke and Alex Harvey all bagged a wicket apiece but were unable to prevent Shenfield from coasting home by 7 wickets. Shenfield 153 for 3 beat Goresbrook 152 all out by 7 wkts.

Goresbrook leap-frogged local rivals Barking into second place in Division One of the Lords International League after a super-charged bowling and fielding performance enabled the visitors to defend an inadequate looking score of 162. Goresbrook’s four strong seam attack, inspired by a superb showing from 16 year old Andrew Mitcheson on his return to the first XI, accounted for all 10 Barking wickets, as Goresbrook overcame the loss of lynchpin Lawrence Walsh to food poisoning, to claim a vital victory.

After winning the toss, Goresbrook skipper Richard Williams elected to bat, and despite the early loss of Michael Rooke, the visitors started well, as Kurt Whisker bossed the bowling to lead his side to 61 for 1. However a double bowling change introduced left arm seamer Garnet Shallow and Barking captain Anthony O’Dell and the change sparked a mini-collapse as Whisker was adjudged lbw to Shallow for 21 and then Andy Livett was trapped in front by a quick O’Dell delivery. Toby Maund followed soon afterwards, chipping up a catch off Shallow’s bowling and Goresbrook had slumped to 70 for 4. However in-form Richard Williamson lead a stirring fightback, the Robert Clack schoolboy deciding attack was the best form of defence, as he punished anything overpitched. Although he, in tandem with Adam Ivey, managed to hit Shallow out of the attack, the pacy O’Dell kept charging in and eventually he removed Williamson, as the 16 year old became the third lbw victim as he looked to work a straight ball through square leg after top scoring with 35. With his tail up, O’Dell’s next delivery proved too quick and straight for Brook skipper Williams, who departed first ball and although Brian Atkins survived the hat-trick delivery, he was clean bowled in the next over to reduce Goresbrook to 140 for 7. Wicket keeper Ivey had batted with commendable restraint, however he couldn’t resist a dash at O’Dell in the paceman’s final over and he was bowled off his pads for 20. It was left to Andrew Mitcheson to add valuable runs at the end, the paceman hitting 4 valuable boundaries to take Goresbrook up to 162, before he was the last man out, bowled round his legs by leg-spinner Asif.

With Goresbrook’s 162 having taken only 30.2 overs, Barking were left with a tricky 40 minute stint before tea and Brook seized back the initiative with their best bowling of the season. Fired up Goresbrook skipper Williams trapped the league’s leading run scorer, Garnet Shallow, lbw for 4 in the first over and then followed up with the wicket of Haider, held by Michael Rooke at slip in his second over. After being edged for 4 off his second ball, Williams reeled off 4 successive maidens, for an opening spell of 5 overs, 4 maidens, 4 for 2 before he made way for Andrew Mitcheson for one over before tea. Mitcheson, who has recently gained selection for the Essex Under 16 squad, rose to the occasion by picking up the wicket of Barking opener Berry , and when Lee Ramduth, who had also bowled a superb 6 over spell from the other end, bowled Vickery in the final over before tea, Barking had been reduced to 18 for 4. After tea, Goresbrook were determined not to let the initiative slip, and Mitcheson quickly removed Curtis Rock with a ball that nipped back and took the top of off-stump. Israel Ochwo’s introduction into the attack paid immediate dividends, as Pulkit Gupta could only fend a bouncer off to Richard Williamson at gully. At 20 for 6, Barking’s innings was in tatters, however a fightback was launched by Essan Afzal who looked to hit everything out of the ground, and for a while at least, succeeded. Despite Afzal’s defiance, Mitcheson completed an excellent spell of 3 for 25 with the wicket of Mohammed Asif and Ochwo needed only 3 balls to breach Barking skipper O’Dell’s defences, a fiery yorker ripping O’Dell’s leg stump out of the ground. At 50 for 8, the game was all but over, however nobody had told Barking number 10 Imran Butt. Butt looked by far the most composed Barking batsman, as he mixed watchful defence with some elegant driving on his way to an unbeaten 40. Although Lee Ramduth returned to end Afzal’s entertaining innings, Barking added 35 for the last wicket before Michael Rooke took another sharp chance at slip off his captain’s bowling to account for number 11 Seth, provoking wild celebrations from a Goresbrook side who maintained their promotion hopes with this victory. Ramduth (2 for 15), Ochwo (2 for 43), Mitcheson (3 for 25) and Williams (3 for 22) shared the wickets, with just a single over of off-spin required from Toby Maund. Goresbrook 162 all out beat Barking 118 all out by 44 runs.

Goresbrook II v Hornchurch Athletic III Lords International League Sat 14/7/07

On a warm, muggy day, and on a belter of a track, the toss was always going to be vital in this match. Goresbrook skipper Johnny Puffa won the toss and duly elected to bat. Openers Mathew Jones and Daniel Williamson put on 40 for the first wicket after 10 overs before Jones fell for 21. This was to become a familiar site as batsmen did well to get a good start, then got themselves out without going on to get a big score. Williamson (38), Chris Burke (20) and Darren Robinson (26) all came and went, and with Winsley, Puffa and Lee Barwick all failing to reach double figures, Goresbrook were languishing at 144 for 7. But yet again this side does not know how to lie down and die, as 16 year olds Kaynal Messenger and Shadai Smith came to the wicket and not only got the score above 200, they did it in a positive way, scoring freely. Messenger hit 37 and Smith 32, and with Atkins again adding a sting to the tail with 17 runs, Goresbrook were finally bowled out off the last ball of their 45 overs for 228. Coote 1 for 20 in 9 overs was the pick of the Athletic attack. In reply, young Shadai Smith completed a fine all-round performance with what can only be described as a devastating spell of genuine pace bowling. With Nick Martin taking out Rutledge for an lbw at one end, Smith blew through Pedroza, Johnson, Higgins and Lane at the other, leaving Athletic in a precarious situation at 5 for 5 after just 6 overs. They did however produce a spirited fightback, with Sampson, Watkins and veteran Weekes all digging in valiantly. Smith completed his first ever senior 5 wicket haul by taking out skipper Watkins via a super catch by Burke, and with Puffa taking 1 for 18, Atkins 1 for 26, and Daniel Williamson coming on to mop up the tail taking 2 for in 2 overs, Athletic's stubborn resistance was finally broken as they ended on 112 all out from 29 overs, some 116 runs short. Goresbrook's second eleven thus maintain their 100% record in the league, as skipper Puffa commented; " Another hard fought win, which was not always as easy as the result makes out". "Special mention for Shadai Smith, a great all round day taking his first ever senior 5 wicket haul, and if he keeps bowling like that, it won't be long before he gets his next " . Goresbrook 228 all out beat HACC 112 all out by 116 runs.

Goresbrook skipper, John Aresti, lost the toss and was invited to bat first on a glorious afternoon at Rush Green on Saturday. His Rainham counterpart must have been rueing his decision to field as ‘Brook’s opening pairing of Paul Maguire and Dave Giesen laid the foundations for a big tally with an opening stand worth 75. Maguire found the rope on six occasions before departing on 37 whilst Giesen played the anchor role fashioning four boundaries in his knock of 32. Several home batsmen appeared set fair for big knocks only to falter once into double figures. Vikas Sharma (19), Jo Wilkinson (14), Simon Walker (11) and Sanil Waghela (10 not ) led the charge but Rainham’s Blake and Sawyer picked up four wickets apiece to inflict the damage with the ball as Goresbrook slumped to a below par total finishing on 158 all out when Keith Maund was clean bowled for a golden duck from the penultimate ball of the allotted 45 overs. After tea, Sanil Waghela (2 for 30) and Ian Harris (1 for 19) bowled a disciplined line and length but Blake plundered a dozen fours and two sixes in an excellent 68 to put the visitors in the ascendancy. Owais (23) and Read (20) provided staunch support but 3 wicket hauls from Vikas Sharma and Brian Kulasena restored the balance. With one wicket intact Avis (12 not) and Sawyer (5 not) inched Rainham home to secure victory and 20 points. Rainham 159 for 9 beat Goresbrook 158 all out by 1 wkt.

Hawks captain, Michael Larke, won the toss and led his side into the field at Rush Green on Tuesday. Goresbrook’s opening pairing of Craig Irving and Jordan Calverley quickly found their rhythm before Irving retired on 25. Calverley holed out on 16 bringing Darren Maun to the crease and he added to Hawks’ misery with a quickfire knock when forced to retire on 27. Andrew Calverley impressed with 17 before Jo Wilkinson (16 not) and debutant, Peter Calverley (9 not) produced a late flurry enabling ‘Brook to post a competitive 152 for 7 from their allotted 20 overs. Tony Gallagher (2 for 3) and Lee Gallagher (2 for 14) were the pick of the home attack. After the interval Peter Duffy (18) and ‘Keeper Daniel Lawrence (15) provided the early impetus for Hawks who were further boosted by an attacking knock from Peter Woods who retired on 27. Peter Calverley missed out on a hat-trick as skipper Larke (20) and Chris Gallagher (16 not) gave the hosts a chance of victory. The visitors varied bowling line up proved consistent throughout the evening holding Hawks’ charge at bay as Goresbrook ran out victors by 24 runs. Goresbrook 152 for 7 beat Havering Hawks 128 all out by 24 runs.

Goresbrook racked up their first Sunday League win of the season on hot day at the Annex on Sunday. Goresbrook skipper Kurt Whisker won the toss and duly elected to bat on what looked like a good track. Whisker invited 16 year old Toby Maund and veteran Andy Livett to open the batting, Livett playing in his 750th match for the club. The pair soon got to work as they took the score past 50 with Maund (39) looking particularly fluent. Man of the moment Livett was first to depart as he found the hands of the mid-on fielder for a sprightly 15. The demise of Livett prompted a mini collapse as Maund quickly followed along with Adam Ivey and Richard Williamson. After a period of consolidation from Michael Rooke and skipper Whisker, club captain Lawrence Walsh (31) and young prospect Kane Messenger (20) looked to provide late impetus into the innings which was ably assisted by Richie Williams and Lee Ramduth as Brook recovered to post a competitive 187. Harris was the pick of visitors attack with 4 for 29.

In reply Stanford began very well with the early order making the most of some unusually wayward bowling from Brook's new ball pairing of Ramduth and Messenger. Captain Whisker quickly moved to stem the flow of runs with Maund and Williams being brought into the attack. Maund's spin proved too tempting for the Stanford batsmen to negotiate sensibly as tempted poor shots from two of the middle order on his way to figures of 2 for 22. Williams bowled with his usual control and picked up miserly figures of 3 for 12. With the Stanford reply now stuttering Whisker went for the jugular as he introduced pace man Israel Ochwo. Ochwo proved too hot to handle as he clean bowled four Stanford batsmen on his way to impressive figures of 4 for 16. With the game now settled Whisker threw the ball to the evergreen Livett who fittingly finished proceedings with the last wicket. After the game Whisker said "It was a very strong performance from the lads today in all departments as we recovered well with the bat to post a decent score and then we worked hard in the field to really put them under pressure - Israel and Richie were excellent on the day. It was also a great result for Andy Livett playing in his 750th game which is an amazing achievement and a testament to his dedication to the club, and for him to take the last wicket was a perfect way to win the game". Goresbrook 187 all out beat S-le-H 134 all out by 53 runs.

On a breezy day, Goresbrook skipper Johnny Puffa won a rare toss and elected to bat on a flat wicket, in this 40 over friendly clash. 'Brook amassed a very respectable 190 for 6 in their allotted overs, with Ivory (42), Jo Wilkinson (29), Andrew Mitcheson (12) , a fine 51 from Jeff Williams in 44 balls and a real brute of an innings by Daniel Walker of 40 not out in just 22 balls including 2 sixes and 5 fours. It was made more remarkable by the fact the 35 year old was playing his first game in over 3 years. In reply, 16 year old Andrew Mitcheson literally ripped out the top of the Benfleet order, bowling 4 express pace overs taking 3 for 5 including 2 maidens, with veterans Alex Harvey (1 for 30), Puffa (1 for 15) and Maund (1 for 32), all contributing to a one-sided game. Daniel Walker completed a fine day taking 1 for 18 in 8 straight overs of spin and with young Lee Roast taking the final wicket of the day, Goresbrook ran out comfortable 73 run victors. Goresbrook 190 for 6 beat Benfleet 117 for 8 by 73 runs.

Goresbrook had to dig deep to see off a stern challenge from a much improved M&B second string, the hosts eventually recovering from 90 for 6 on a placid batting track to post 219, after a superb innings of 81 from 16 year old Richard Williamson. That total proved too many for Bakers, as the visitors got off to a slow start and left themselves too much too do, despite a middle order rally.

After winning the toss, Goresbrook skipper Richard Williams elected to bat on a fine afternoon, however the decision looked to be questionable as M&B opening bowler Asif Islam caused problems skidding the ball through as the pitch still carried some moisture after weeks of heavy rain. The prolific Kurt Whisker went early on for just 10, adjudged lbw to a ball that stayed low. Then Andy Livett, equally prolific in the second XI this year, also departed to a ball that skidded on, comprehensively bowled by James Mecham for 4. Lawrence Walsh and Michael Rooke took the score on to 52, before Rooke pulled a long hop from Tahir Aslam to mid-on to depart for 28. Walsh
followed quickly as he played over an Aslam yorker, and then middle order duo Adam Ivey and Brian Atkins fell in quick succession as both chipped catches up. At that stage Goresbrook were reeling at 90 for 6, but with Richard Williamson looking comfortable, Goresbrook just needed somebody to bat with him. A partner was found in the shape of skipper Williams and the two set about the M&B attack, first carefully and then looking to take the fight to the bowlers. With 10 overs remaining, the pair had advanced the score to 135 for 6, and with Williamson playing some stylish shots down the ground, and his captain also starting to hit the ball hard, the last 10 overs were dominated by Goresbrook, as the M&B bowling and fielding slipped from previous standards. A further 83 runs were added before Williamson was eventually dismissed in the final over for a splendid 81, his highest score for the
first XI. Williams remained unbeaten on 47 as the partnership of 128 for the 7th wicket rescued the hosts, who closed on 218 for 8. Islam with 3 for 36 and Aslam 3 for 44 were the pick of M&B's bowling.

In reply, needing a fast start to make inroads into Goresbrook's total, Bakers got anything but, as Brook skipper Williams reeled off 9 overs for just 11 runs. Openers Goodman and Hussain struggled to get the ball away in the face of disciplined bowling from Williams and Lee Ramduth and as the pressure built, Brian Atkins and Kane Messenger picked up wickets as they persisted with the virtues of line and length. At 53 for 4 off 20 overs, the M&B chase looked in danger of completely fizzling out, however Keith Friend and Tahir Aslam picked up the baton and advanced the score to 125 for 4 with some controlled aggression. With 9 an over still required, a Bakers win was still looking unlikely however, and Michael Rooke's introduction into the attack removed all possibility as he dismissed both batsmen in successive balls. From thereon, the game petered out, as despite some stirring strokes from Islam and Jay Naik, Bakers fell 37 runs short. Rooke with 2 for 17, Messenger 3 for 49 and an excellent 6 over spell of 1 for 20 from Brian Atkins, keeping the pressure on after tight opening spells.

Goresbrook's win keeps up the pressure on leading duo Ford and Barking, and with Brook visiting Barking on Saturday, an explosive clash is anticipated. Brook Skipper Williams was pleased with his sides performance saying, "We showed some character today, it would have been easy to feel sorry for ourselves at 90 for 6, but Richard Williamson kept attacking and eventually May & Baker buckled. We then finished the job well with the ball and deserved the win". "M&B were a much better outfit than when we played them earlier in the season though. They had 3 or 4 different players available and if they keep turning that side out, they can hopefully do us a favour by beating one of the leading contenders. They are well capable of doing that, especially if they can get runs on the board." Goresbrook 219 for 8 beat M&B 182 for 8 by 37 runs.

Goresbrook skipper Johnny Puffa loss yet another toss in this Division 2 affair, and was invited to bat by Belhus on a green but flat looking pitch. Goresbrook opening pair Matty Jones and Daniel Williamson started ok and managed to get the score to 25 off the first 8 overs, before Jones perished to Maidment for 14. Williamson followed shortly after for 17, bringing 15 year old Chris Burke and skipper Puffa together, with the score on 48. The pair batted sensibly to begin with, making sure no collapse took place, before stepping up the run rate, with Puffa striking a fine 57 in 62 balls, including 6 fours and a six. Burke hit a dogged 44 in 90 balls which included 5 fours, before Puffa ran himself out with the score on 153, a 105 run partnership. This set up the innings well for the lower order to make hay, but in-form Robinson fell for just 2, Winlsey also fell for just 5, however youngsters Smith (17) and Mitcheson (18 no) brought the score to a respectable 217 for 8 in the allotted 45 overs. Edwards (3 for 24) was the pick of the Belhus attack. In reply Belhus were positive in their attempt to end Goresbrook's 100% winning record and with opener Diddy and Aussie Turner looking solid, a shock looked on the cards. 'Brook's opening bowling duo Martin and Mitcheson failed to break the deadlock with the new ball, with first change Smith bowling a rapid spell of pace but bowling 9 straight overs for just 26 runs without a wicket, things looked bad for Goresbrook. However, the ever reliable Paul Atkins came to the rescue again, he totally blew through the Belhus top order with his mixture of medium pace and slower balls, and bowled a seasons best 6 for 29 in his 9 overs. The 33 year old bowled 3 maidens also, and with Puffa coming on and taking two scalps 'Brook gained control of the game and Belhus's effort petered out as they ended up collapsing to 159 all out, with Mitcheson taking the final wicket of the game. Brook therefore maintain that 100% record and their position at the top of the table for another week. Puffa added; " It was nice personally, to make a contribution to the teams victory, but we are a team, and yet again we played as one, backing each other to the hilt. Roll on next week ". Goresbrook 217 for 8 beat Belhus 159 all out by 58 runs.

Goodmayes & Blythswood II v Goresbrook III Lords International League Sat 7/7/07

Goresbrook skipper, John Aresti led his troops out into the field on a glorious afternoon at Goodmayes Park on Saturday. For the first time in many weeks the prospects of a full afternoons play were not in doubt. The hosts lost wickets at regular intervals as the ‘Brook attack maintained a disciplined line with the ball. Ian Harris’s probing accuracy didn’t yield the wickets he deserved bowling an economical 9 overs for 26. Brian Kulasena drew first blood when bowling Patel for 10 – the fifteen year old colt’s spell of 1 for 24 from 7 caught the eye. 18 year old Vikas Sharma, bowling first change, returned an impressive 3 for 20 but the experienced pairing of Dean Mason (44) and David Eyres (21) afforded the hosts some stability. The introduction of Godwin schoolmaster, Chris Wilding, spelt the end for both as he trapped Mason leg before and tempted Eyres to hole out to Jo Wilkinson, finishing with 3 for 33. With no other GeeBees’s batsman reaching double figures they slumped to 142 all out with 43.2 of their 45 over entitlement utilised. Bailey (3 for 34) and Singla (2 for 31) decimated the visitors’ early order reducing Goresbrook to 44 for 5. With the hosts favourites for victory the Dagenham outfit had three of their teenage stars to thank as Vikas Sharma (25) and Brian Kulasena (21) completed plucky all round displays. 16 year old James Hare signalled a return to form with the bat stroking seven boundaries in a sparkling undefeated 44, leading his side to a comfortable 3 wicket victory with over eleven overs in hand. Goresbrook 144 for 7 beat G&B 142 all out by 3 wkts.

After yet more overnight rain, it was remarkable a game could take place at all at the May & Baker Annex on Sunday, but the covers did their job and skipper Andrew Livett duly won the toss and decided to bat first in this reduced 35 over derby affair. Goresbrook's openers Adam Ivey and Craig Irving started in positive fashion, and remarkably in just the 2nd over of the match, history was made as G&B debutant Greg Challenger bowled an over which included five boundaries plus wides and no balls, amounting to an amazing 37 runs, the most runs ever scored by Goresbrook in one over, since forming in 1981. The boys continued to find runs easy to come by and put on 111 for the 1st wicket before Ivey was bowled for 70, his knock contained 11 fours and 2 sixes. Irving then went on to complete his half century before falling for 60, his innings included 4 big sixes and 4 fours. Johnny Puffa struggled to find form and fell for 18, Jeff Williams making a comeback after a back injury went for just 4, but then in-form 16 year old Kaynal Mesenger came in and played a fine knock belying his tender years. He caressed the boundary on four occasions, and with the assistance of youngsters Roast (8) and Joe Curley (9 no) got 'Brook to a massive 247 for 5 in their allotted 35 overs. Messenger ended up unbeaten on 52 after striking a 4 off the last ball of the innings to get to his half century.

In reply Goodmayes & Blythswood started off solidly with Hand and Mayor at the crease, but with Alex Harvey making his comeback also after serious injury bowling a superb spell, the target was looking a long way off. Harvey bowled his 7 overs straight off for just 16 runs, and when Hand finally went the score was on a respectful 83. Wilkinson took Hand's wicket and also added Amin to it taking 2 for 28, Puffa came on next and bowled a fine spell of medium pace, he took the prized scalp of G&B skipper Adam Sheekey, along with Ian Mayor for 45 and Allen for 9, all 3 wickets being clean bowled. He ended with 3 for 22 in 6 overs, 14 year old Joe Curley 2 for 22 and Craig Irving 2 for 2 cleaned up the tail as G&B ended their 35 overs on 139 for 9 some 108 runs short. Kaynal Messenger completed a fine all round performance by taking a wonderous catch and fielding fantastically well, skipper Livett added; "Today was an enjoyable day against our friendly local rivals who were not at full strength. The game was played in a great spirit and our youngsters keep on improving week in and week out which is great to see under my leadership". Goodmayes & Blythswood skipper Adam Sheekey added; " It was great to actually get out on a cricket field after all the rain we have had again of late, we were outclassed today, but we still enjoyed the day. Two great clubs playing the game the way it should be played, what more can you ask for ". Goresbrook 247 for 5 beat G&B 139 for 9 by 108 runs.

Goresbrook I v Goodmayes & Blythswood I Lords International League Sat 23/6/07

Kurt Whisker was the star as Goresbrook eased past a depleted Goodmayes & Blythswood side, the 21 year old opener hit a superb 84 as Goresbrook racked up their highest total of the season on a day when rain perpetually threatened, but never came. After winning the toss, stand in Blythswood skipper Mark Embery elected to bowl, always a wise course with the threat of rain, as batting second in a shortened game is a clear advantage. Goresbrook's mission therefore was to rack up an imposing enough target to make a possible chase in reduced overs as tough as possible, and Whisker and Michael Rooke got the hosts off to a flying start as they added 84 before Rooke was sharply stumped by Ian Mayor off the bowling of Rasitha Madanayake. Rooke had looked in good touch for his 44, outscoring the more patient Whisker. However after Rooke's departure, Whisker moved into another gear and played some superb attacking strokes. The left hander added 100 runs for the 2nd wicket in tandem with Lawrence Walsh and after Walsh went for an elegant 53, Whisker looked odds on for a maiden first XI hundred. Sadly for Whisker, he fell short once again, pulling a rank long hop from Paul Brennan to Dave Wright at square leg to fall for 84. After Whisker's dismissal, Goresbrook's youthful middle order scented blood, and a succession of batsmen came out firing. Richard Williamson and Adam Ivey hit a quickfire 25 & 24 respectively and Brian Atkins's 25 required only 9 balls. Tommy Puncher also hit a lively unbeaten 22 to see Goresbrook to 307 for 8 in their 45 overs, 107 runs coming from the final 10 overs as with wickets in hand, the 'Brook batsmen cut loose against Goodmayes part time bowlers.

In reply, with storm clouds gathering, Goresbrook looked to get the requisite 16 overs in quickly. Opening bowlers Richard Williams and Lee Ramduth picked up a wicket a piece, Williams dismissing Zahid Habib for a duck courtesy of a superb diving slip catch from Michael Rooke, and Ramduth bowling Mick Clennell. After 10 overs, spinners Toby Maund and Lawrence Walsh were into the attack and Brook got safely through to the 16 over mark, Maund picking up the wicket of Ravi Rattan, as Goodmayes were well behind the required rate at 38 for 3. The remainder of the game had a slightly flat air, as the visitors were never in with a shout of reaching their target and at times Goresbrook went through the motions. Colin Mayor hit a solid 29, but the star of the show was Rasitha Madanayake who hit a superb unbeaten 102, as he took advantage of some sloppy fielding and bowling to reach his century in the final over of the game. Unfortunately for Madanayake, despite his innings, his side were still 100 runs short of their target, Goresbrook picking up a maximum 20 point haul to stay on the heels of the leaders in Division 1. Goresbrook skipper Richard Williams was pleased with his batsmen's performance, "That was the first time we've really fired as a team this year, although to be fair, we always felt that if we could get off to a good start then they were going to struggle for bowlers as they were missing a number of players. Kurt & Michael did their bit, and then Kurt and Lawrence Walsh got us into a position where the middle order could take advantage of their part time bowlers." "Bowling wise, we did well for about 20 overs, but after that it all went a bit flat as there was only ever one winner. We'll have to improve 100% on that performance next week at Noak Hill." Goresbrook 307 for 8 beat G&B 207 for 7 by 100 runs.

On yet another horrible day, with the threat of rain always around, the toss was going to be vital and yet again Goresbrook skipper Johhny Puffa lost it, Tennyson electing to field as expected. Gorsebrook's top order struggled in the conditions with Tennyson's Terry Ransome swinging the new ball, 'Brook were languishing at 39 for 4, losing Irving (1), Winsley (2), skipper Puffa (13) and Martin (4) cheaply. After that the Goresbrook fightback started, the youthful middle order came to the party, with in-form Darren Robinson clubbing a quickfire 53 off just 29 balls including 8 fours and 2 huge sixes and 16 year old Kaynal Messenger hitting 39 in 39 balls including 6 fours, but losing veteran Steven Rooke for just 2, leaving Goresbrook still in trouble at 118 for 7. However the fighting spirit of the league leaders shone through yet again, as number nine batsman 16 year old Andrew Mitcheson hit 25 including 4 fours, then number ten batsman 16 year old Shadai Smith struck 29 not out including 3 boundaries and along with number eleven Paul Atkins who clubbed 33 not out in just 13 balls including 2 sixes and 2 fours, they managed to put on an unbeaten 54 for the last wicket, enabling 'Brook to post a daunting 250 for 9 in their 45 overs. Ransome's 3 for 18 in 9 overs was the pick of the Tennyson attack.

In reply, with the threat of rain worsening by the minute, Goresrook's all out pace attack got to work with really attacking fields in the hope of winning the game before being washed out. Andrew Mitcheson led the attack admirably, bowling at rapid pace to a field which comprised of 6 slips and a gully, and only one fielder in front of the bat. He duly obliged too, taking out Fredericks and Barnard in his first 3 overs, but with Nick Martin having a rare off day at the other end, Puffa then called on Paul Atkins and the 33 year old paceman completed a fine all-round performance. Atkins ripped through the Tennyson middle order, and with the help of keeper Robinson and skipper Puffa in the slips who took fine catches, Atkins ended with figures of 4 for 8. With Messenger bowling superbly also taking 1 for 10 'Brook swept to a convincing victory winning by 173 runs. Grattan top scored for Tennyson with 29. Skipper Puffa added after the game: " We keep getting ourselves into tricky