U11's struggle in the sun

Goresbrook's U11's lost this encounter with Rainham as they failed to recover from a very poor start and left themselves far too much to do.
Batting first after winning the toss Brook soon found themselves on the ropes as 5 wickets were lost. But for a regular smattering of wides matters could have been much worse as no batsman mastered the pitch and other than two outstanding catches shot selection was responsible for the huge majority of wickets. The only undefeated batsmen on the day were 8 year olds Liam Elsom and Ben Atkins and Bens elder brother Freddie. Brook totalled a very disappointing 295-14 which was adjusted to 225 under Terriers rules.
A pep talk, largely given by u15 Alfie Atkins, emphasised the need to largely forget what had gone before and concentrate on line and length in order to restrict runs and take wickets.
Things started well enough as both Stanley Sleight and Freddie Atkins bowled maidens to restrict Rainhams opening pair to 11 but although very few runs came off the bat too many wides and no balls were given away. Harry Ivory made the initial breakthrough and another for Albert Sleight really slowed up the Rainham charge and 2 wickets in 3 balls from Phil Thoufick, one bowled and one thanks to an alert stumping by Tommy Smith gave Brook a modicum of hope. Freddie Atkins returned to nab a fifth wicket but Rainham's skipper Kyan pulled consecutive boundaries to give the home team the spoils.
With training on Thursday before a home game against Frenford on Sunday this group of players have an opportunity to work on those facets of their game that were found short today. However bear in mind that due to the weather and other cancellations this was just the third game the youngsters have played this season.