Ramsbottom bounce out of Worsley Cup by Webmaster

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Scorecard:

Todmorden v Ramsbottom

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DateLine: 6th July 2008

 

Ramsbottom lost a thrilling Worsley Cup Semi-final tie at Todmorden, going down by 4 wickets in the last over, but having to suffer the loss of their bowling pro after just 2 overs with a hamstring injury.

 

There was a delayed start and threat of more rain as Simon Read won the toss and chose to bat first. Phil Hayes continuing his good form was joined by Keith Webb in an opening stand of 66 to give the innings a great start. Three wickets fell for 99 before Hayes was joined by Shane Harwood. Tight bowling in the middle order slowed progress as Hayes moved from 45 to his half century using up 32 balls. Having reached the milestone the innings sped up, the pro reaching his half-century at a run-a-ball, and 240 in 50 overs was a good return for the efforts of the Ramsbottom batters.

 

An early success as Mick Haslam dismissed Ben Sutcliffe, but Goolam Bodi was a threat. In two recent league matches against Rammy he had failed, and felt it may be pay-back time, however his dismissal for 53 gave Rammy a huge fillip, and perhaps a confidence that was too early.

 

With other batsmen chipping in Yorkshire born Mark Clayton had other ideas, the 41 year old belied his years as he chanced his arm. Mo Bux also looked dangerous as he often can be, and three vital but difficult catches were spilled at critical times, and to the excitement of the home crowd, victory was achieved fittingly by the veteran driving Jack Walmsley for four with five balls to spare.

 

Both Jack Walmsley and Mick Haslam bowled well, Jack's first 6 overs, before being forced off by age restriction was especially economical. Perhaps Rammy took their eye off the ball too early, the loss of the pro was critical, but it is Todmordan who host the final on August 3rd against Accrington, and goodluck to them.

(Article: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author only.
Copyright © 2008 RammyCricket)