This was indeed an historic occasion. Not only was it the Willows’ inaugural match with the Valley of Peace, but it was a first for the Willows to field two teams on the same day (also a homeWillows match with a Millbrook XI). This match was only the third “away game” for a Willows team and with two losses previously, the pressure was on for a win!

The Willows started well on this beautifully fine mid-summer’s day by winning the toss and electing to bat on a well-rolled strip. The Valley began with two early wickets but opener Gareth Brooks batted beautifully for a well compiled 58, with many fine drives. Matthew Wright (36) and Michael Fisher (29) both added to our total with good performances at the crease.

All players batted with the last pair not out after the 50th over. A modest total of 185 was achieved, with B.Walker and S. Biackman taking two wickets apiece for the Valley.

TheWillows took to the field keen to defend their total. A near disaster occurred in the first over when 16 runs were taken, leaving only 170 runs to defend with 49 overs to bowl, but a fine spell of medium-fast bowling by Will Harrison (GAP student) supported well by slips fielder Gareth Brooks (2 catches) kept the Willows in the game.

Good support bowling by Rod lnnes, Hamish Hudson, Guy Bromley (2 wickets) andMatthew Wright ('keeper for first 25 overs) also enhanced our chances. In all nine bowlers were used and apart from two dropped catches, the fielding was sharp with two smart run outs. The ‘keeping was of a high standard also, being equally shared byMatthewWright and David Jenkins (GAP student).

lt was a tense finish. With six overs remaining, the Valley was nine down but required only 10 runs. They achieved the target in the 48th over.

The Valley provided a fine lunch and good hospitality and, as well, a few raffles were drawn. lt was such a warm day that we drank the Valley ‘dry’ of drinking water, but at the end of the day our thirsts were quenched with ale!