The wicket was a little soft following days of heavy rain, but even with the threat of a further shower or two, the toss was duly done and the match started on time. The Willows decided to bat. James Hantz and Andre Burrell opened with James Hantz particularly savage on the bowlers early on. James was the third wicket to fall in the 29th over with the score at 1 2 1 . James’ contribution was 66.

Keryn Ambler batted nicely for 29. No real partnerships developed and it looked at one stage, that the Willows might be bowled out for under 200. However, Ryan Burson batting at No 8 showed just what a good all-rounder he is making a quick fire 48. He was ably supported by Steve Gibson who was 22 not out at the end of the innings. Together they took the score from 1 46 to 221.

The best of the bowlers for Shirley Boys’ High was Michael Peacock who took 3 for 29 off ten overs, three of which were maidens. The Shirley Boys’ High innings was dominated by a partnership of 112 for the third wicket between Matthew Fielding and Dane Yesburg.

After that partnership was broken, Michael Peacock breathed some hope into the Shirley innings, but when Paul O’Donnell captured his wicket, the Shirley Boys’ High innings faltered. Boys’ High were 1 87 all out in the 47th over.

The best of the Willows bowlers was Ryan Burson with 3 for 1 7 off eight overs. Ryan was backed up by Paul O’Donnell who took 2 for 7 off 7.4 overs. The win for the home team ensured that the Steve Garland Trophy stayed in the Willows pavilion for the fourth consecutive year.