The day of the annual clash between the Willows and the Medbury Headmaster’s XI found the Willows basked in sunshine with a pitch that looked as if it should provide a benefit day for the batsmen.

Medbury’s hired gun, Willows President John Mitchell lost the toss and was asked to field. Early contributions from Tim Coop (25) and Carl Anderson (41) saw the Willows off to a solid start. The good early work was undone with a middle order slump that found us 112 for six with plenty of overs left.

Some intelligent occupation of the crease was required and that came in the form of a 101 run partnership between Anup Nathu (62) and Warren Eddington (42). That contribution provided the impetus for the Willows to finish on a healthy total of 252 for 9. N McIntosh was the best of the bowlers with 3 for 49.

A confident Willows side stacked with seven bowlers took to the field only to be met by an aggressive Medbury top order. Miserly spells from Carl Anderson (5-2-7-1) and Simon Steel (7-2-15-1) who was visiting from the Godalming Cricket Club in Surrey slowed progress and a brilliant catch by Troels Nielsen to remove John Masefield (49) off Adrian McFedries (2/40) turned the match in the favour of the Willows.

Martin Snedden contributed 28 in the middle order but once removed by Andrew McRae (3/39) the tail was wrapped up quickly. Troels Nielsen (2/23), Brandon Hini and Warren Eddington also bowled well.

Thanks to David and John for an excellent game of cricket and congratulations to the Willows team for a quality performance.