The annual LNZCC clash was a classic game of one-day cricket mixed with fine performances and an ever-changing advantage that the Willows were unable to capitalise upon.

A losttoss by the Willows proved fortuitous as Doug McMillan with 1 for 4 off 6overs and Grant Stewart (2-38) put an early squeeze on the bowling. A middle order revival from M Dwyer (48) and M Hastings (20) was halted by Julian Marsh (1/15 off 10 overs) who was ably supported by Jason Pawson (2/27) and David Fox ( 1 /1 3). A late flourish from Steve Daley (24) helped LNZCC through to a total off 197/8.

After the loss of an early wicket the Willows set about their task in a business-like manner with contributions from Gary Thomson (31 ) and Scott Pawson (53). The Willows appeared to be cruising towards a comfortable victory when the fourth wicket fell with 1 23 on the board. Julian Marsh was next out for a well struck 37 leaving the score at 139/5.

All-rounders Richard Abbott and Grant Stewart (27) put together a partnership of 38 to give what should have been match point to the Willows when the sixth wicket fell at 177.

However, fortunes changed dramatically as tight bowling from M Dwyer, a run out and tidy glove work from Andrew Vincent saw the Willows capitulate, losing their last 5 wickets for 24 runs to be all out for 191, seven runs short of victory.

A great game full of lost opportunities for some, taken opportunities by others, played in the great spirit in which cricket should be played. In keeping with the tradition and the reason the Willows exists many old associations where rekindled and stories were retold from days long ago when the body played the game as the mind remembers it.