As with last year the final match at “The WJlows” in the 1995-96 season was against the Woodbank Wanderers. The day was fine and cool and with the Woodbank captain David Priest making a late appearance, it was ‘agreed’ that the Willows would bat first. On a benign wicket Car! Anderson produced a fine innings of 65 while at the other end the captain played a different game for 36. The opening stand of 101 in 18 overs set the Willows up for a good score, but some tight bowling by Woodbank, including David Priest who bowled a miserly 11 overs, restricted the score to 204 in the 50 overs. Due to his late arrival, Priest managed to bowl an extra over before anyone knew he was there – a novel trick this! Matthew Wright produced a spirited 28 despite several times having to chase his own batting partners and also having to watch Dennis Aberhart, playing in his first match this year, limp from the field with an injured calf.
The loss of Dennis reduced our bowling options but with grim determination, and a substitute fielder from our opponents, we set about defending our total. Woodbank, with little care for our feelings, began like they wanted to win. Harley James scored a very good 62 to anchor their innings and with Steve Satterthwaite they looked like cruising to victory. Wickets were at first difficult to get, but with some excellent bowling from Richard Leary and then good support from Hamid Ikram and John Campbell, the possibility of victory began to arise. Needing only 60 runs in the last 20 overs with five wickets in hand, Woodbank were still favourites, but the introduction of Car! Anderson changed all that. Wickets fell at the other end as he bowled ten overs for 20 runs and introduced a bit of panic into the opposition. With one over left and three wickets in hand, Woodbank required 11 runs. The captain, sensing the opportunity for a moment in the spotlight, had earlier grabbed the ball, not realising the possibility that he would have to bowl in such a situation. With the aid of some good fielding by Woodbank’s own substitute, the Willows managed to hang on and win by five runs.
The lunch, as usual, was outstanding, the setting unrivalled and the game was excellent. A perfect day. Thanks to Woodbank, and we look forward to seeing you back next season.