Having had more losses then wins in matches with the Suburban Invitation XI, The Willows on this occasion opted to bat first on another quality pitch. The aim was to set a good target for the visitors to chase. But things never got going for us. It wasn’t long before opening bowler Ben Cochrane started chipping out our top order and we were reeling at 54/5 off 18 overs. A good captain’s knock was needed and Brendon Wellington with the help of Eugene MacFarlane started to repair the innings. Their partnership was the only one of note and Eugene went on to score 44, after Brendon was run out by a good fielding effort from Dan Vann. The innings finished at 158 which was never enough on the wicket provided.

Coming out to field, things were compounded by an intensified howling northerly wind. Luke Courtney snared the only wicket for The Willows as the visitors easily knocked off the runs. Matt House (86 not out) batted with aggression and Ben Williams (39 not out) guided the Suburban XI home with 18 overs to spare.

A big thank you for everyone’s efforts, in particular to Matthew and Eugene for umpiring and Tony for doing another fine job on the book.