Goodmayes & Blythswood I v Goresbrook II - Essex County Cricket League - Div 1

Goresbrook Captain, Keith Friend called incorrectly and his side were invited to bat on an indifferent track at Goodmayes Park on Saturday. In challenging conditions, there were some excellent contributions with the willow from the Goresbrook batsmen. With runs at a premium, 15 year old opener Shane Barwick conducted a war of attrition occupying the crease for the full 45 overs remaining unbeaten on 34. Skipper Friend joined his young colleague but capitulated to a shooter on 16 before Billy Chapman (13) and Afzal Hussain (12) added battling contributions against the home attack. Habib made full use of bowler friendly conditions bagging 3 for 31 whilst Kevin Lingstone (2 for 11) and Ghani (2 for 13) emphasised the visitors predicament. 16 year old Daryl Forward caught the eye with an entertaining cameo adding an undefeated 16 in a rearguard assault but ‘Brook fell short of an adequate total posting 134 for 8 when tea was taken.

After the interval it was again the bowlers who held sway as paceman, Shaun Ross had Shah and Varsani back in the hutch - each clean bowled for a duck. Ross went on to return 4 for 28 receiving support from teenager Barwick who demonstrated his all round talent as his left arm spin yielded 4 for 43. Jayahama posted 33 but the Gee Bees had their own anchorman in the shape of opener, Suba (67 not) who also batted throughout his sides innings leading the hosts through a drama drenched finale, holding on for a one wicket victory.