4's youngsters hold their heads high

Goresbrook's 4th string were out gunned by Upminster 6th but gave a determined batting performance to bat out their 40 overs.
Although the game was lost there was nothing but admiration for their determination.
On a damp topped wicket Upminster's openers played with freedom and hit boundaries almost at will. The rate was near 10 an over, but following the batsmen's retirements with 100 and 50 respectively Brook got 3 well deserved wickets through Grace Wood, Tommy Smith and John Nicholls. A few chances were spilt in the field with the ball swirling in the wind, but Brook fielded pretty well otherwise, especially Tommy Smith Sr who gave an enthusiastic performance after he stepped into the team at the last minute. Tegan Gillham was also a rock behind the stumps.
Brooks reply got off to a disastrous start as 4 wickets were lost with just 24 on the board, but Phil Thoufick and Owen Elsom staged a rearguard action with a fine 72 partnership before a tiring Thoufick chipped back to the bowler for a fine 26.
Elsom had reached a club best 63 including 9 boundaries when he holed out to mid off but Albie Smith provided a wonderful late cameo with 12* including two impressive strokes for 4 and Brook comfortably saw out the last few overs to post a very respectable total against good opposition.