The U19s narrowly lost to Oakfield Parks in the Essex County U19 T20 competition on Sunday at Billericay. Having made their way to finals day following a win two weeks ago against Upminster the Goresbrook side were full of confidence for the semi final tie. However they fell just short. Electing the bat Brook lost their openers early on before a third wicket stand of 52 between Shane Barwick (35) and Stuart Greaves (22) put some runs on the board.

However,, both fell in consecutive balls with the score on 71 to halt the scoring. A superb late flurry from 16 year old Lee Jones (37no) pushed the score to 126 off the allotted overs, more than anybody has scored against the Goats attack to date, but 15 or so short of where it looked like we might finish.

In response Parks lost Singh early for 7, but a wonderfully controlled innings from Parish Kalley (50 retired) ably assisted by his brother Dinesh (38) put Parks in prime position. Despite a stunning run out by Ben Irving and tight late bowling from Harry Jackson Parks always had a little in the tank and reached the final with four balls to spare.

Despite the defeat team coach Matthew Jones was delighted by the effort the team had put in this year,

'Its the first time we have entered this competition and we made finals day, I couldnt really have asked for anymore. The boys were so upbeat pre-game knowing that for the majority it was their last game together as an age group. Losing Barwick and Greaves in consecutive balls probably lost the game for us though despite Lee's magnificent 37. Six of these boys have now finished their colts careers with the club but they will continue to play for our senior sides and that is important. We had over 100 friends, family and supporters come along today and we all go home happy and will now turn our attention to next season'.

Parks were beaten in the final by an excellent Wanstead team who retained the trophy with a 50ish run victory.