2nd XI Match Report

DATE: Monday 29th August
OPPONENTS: Hampton-in-Arden
VENUE: Hampton-in-Arden
RESULT: Atherstone Won By 7 Wkts
POINTS: Atherstone 20pts Hampton-in-Arden 2pts

Atherstone’s second team coasted to another impressive win under the stewardship of Gary Moore on Bank Holiday Monday despite fielding a much weakened side to the one that triumphed over Marston Green two days prior.

With depleted batting and bowling resources a seven wicket win was much welcomed by the hard working Adders outfit as they approach the final three games of the season.

Batting first, host side Hampton struggled against the unpredictable Martin Webb and the economical Rob Smith, but despite the duo claiming a wicket apiece it was not until Lloyd Everitt took two wickets in successive balls that the game turned distinctly Atherstone’s way. From here only a gallant hard hit 67 from Hooper enabled Hampton to progress as Stan “Mushtaq” Riley took 4-41 before Geraint Thomas, bowling through the pain barrier mopped up a threatening tail. Newcomer Sean Strugnall impressed in the field along with wicket keeper Mike Brooks who took 3 catches and a quality stumping.

Chasing 150 to win in 62 overs, Atherstone were short of recognised batters but a stand of 55 between openers David Perkins (20) and Chris Horton (28) weathered the early storm and thus laid the foundations for the middle order to press home the early advantage. Brooks and Sam Healey added 56 to take the game beyond Hampton before the stylish young Webb entered the fray and smashed a rapid undefeated 28 to leave veteran Brooks stranded on 44 not out and facing just two balls in the short time the pair were together. Webb ended the game with a huge six that walloped into the sight-screen to leave Atherstone comfortable winners in just 26.4 overs.

Overall an excellent Bank Holiday weekend for the club, the second team taking 44 points from a possible 48 which lifts them further up the top half of the table, their highest league position in history.

Scoreboard