On a fiercely warm North Canterbury day, The Willows lost the toss and were asked to field. The young Crusaders top order batted with great intent and after only 12 overs the score was 81/2. The Willows side then clawed its way back into the game thanks to some miserly and tactful bowling from Blair Franklin, Neil Cross and Bert Walker.

After the luncheon interval the Crusaders fought to reach 258/9 thanks largely to an excellent 51 not out from Jared Thompson. Bob Masefield proved the most likely Willower, taking two key wickets with consecutive balls.

The Willows started with 72 for the opening wicket thanks to some fine batting from Chris Dockrill and Alex Rowe. At 3/98 it was game on before Neil Cross found form hitting a crisp 87 not out to guide The Willows side home with three overs to spare.

Thanks to the Crusaders touring party— including umpires, scorers and parents—for another memorable Willows fixture.