4th's battle in defeat against UCS OB

After scheduled opponents, Boreham cried off, Goresbrook’s 4th String took a break from league action and were pitted against a UCS Old Boys side, who proved too strong - the visitors easing to a 165 run victory at May & Bakers Annex Ground on Saturday. Russ Klinger was in attacking mode from the off with a swashbuckling 85 before being trapped leg before by Bobby Granger. ‘Brook’s misery continued as James Ward and Joe Craig both made excellent tons punishing any loose offerings as the Old Boys raced to a mammoth 349 for 2 from their allotted 40 overs with Krishan Kumar picking up a consolation wicket.

After the tea ‘Brook picked themselves up with an excellent batting display boosted by maiden half centurions Alfie Atkins and Joe Barwick. 15 year old left handed opener Atkins held the early order together with splendid shot selection in a superb 53 which contained eleven fours and a huge six before falling for 53 after 86 minutes at the crease. Right handed Barwick, at seven years his senior, fashioned 9 fours and a towering maximum on his way to an entertaining unbeaten 50 from 49 balls. Other positives were 15 year old George Smith who batted with maturity compiling 34 whilst Frankie Boland and Andrew Pauling caught the eye with 12 apiece as ‘Brook closed on 184 for 6 with the target proving a bridge, or rather several bridges, a decent stretch of motorway and a lengthy stroll up the drive too far.