Ford Sports I v Goresbrook I - Essex County Cricket League - Prem Div

Goresbrook's first string suffered a shock loss to bottom side Fords as their batting woes continued. A meagre total of 131 was defended heroically in the field, but ultimately Fords held their composure better in the final over to scramble the 7 runs they required with their final pair at the crease. Michael Rooke and Lawrence Walsh were the only batsmen to get going in the Goresbrook innings, as scoring proved difficult on a hastily prepared wicket after early showers had waterlogged the intended strip at Newbury Park.

Disappointingly, the Dagenham side couldn't put together any partnerships of note, as poor shot selection and a moving ball caused a procession of wickets. 'Brook were dismissed for 131, committing the cardinal sin of failing to bat their 45 overs and it was clear at tea that an exceptional bowling effort would be required.

Frustratingly, the Brook bowlers nearly pulled it off, as some disciplined seam bowling from Richard Williams and Michael Rooke ramped up the pressure and then spinners Shane Barwick and Lawrence Walsh made inroads picking up 3 wickets a piece. However a fine 55 from Ghulam Moinudin kept the Motormen in the hunt and despite some late jitters, the final pair were able to edge over the line off the penultimate ball of the match courtesy of four leg byes and some scrambled singles.