Chapman punishes Thurrock again

Goresbrook’s 2nd string maintained their unbeaten record with a comfortable win over old rivals Thurrock at M&B. A disciplined bowling and fielding effort restricted the visitors to 163-7 from their 45 overs with Joe Barwick standing out once again with an accurate new ball spell of 9-4-25-1. Veteran Lawrence Walsh in the 2nd week of a welcome comeback then took 2-28 from 8 overs with his wily spin as the Goresbrook pressure rarely let up, skipper Craig Ivey also putting in a useful spell of 2-20 as Thurrock were unable to give Chris Buckley, who carried his bat for a fine 83*, any support.

In damp conditions a score of 160 can be competitive at May & Bakers, however the Thurrock bowlers couldn’t exert the same control as their Goresbrook counterparts and all the Brook batsmen who came to the crease looked comfortable. Joe Curley (40) and Mark Bird (32) put 75 on for the first wicket and then Billy Chapman (53) took the game away from the Grays side with some trademark hitting leaving Keith Friend to ease his side home with an unbeaten 26. Goresbrook extending their lead at the top of Division 4 to a commanding 67 points.