Play commenced under heavy clouds with the prospect of rain. Fortunately the day remained dry and we enjoyed a very close encounter.

Under the jurisdiction of two very good umpires, recently retired Brian Aldridge and the up and coming Markham Lee, the Willows won the toss and batted.

Led by a very good innings from Paul McCarthy, a talented youngster from St.Thomas’s College, we reached a respectable 196. The batting generally was sound with the initial impetus coming from a partnership between Paul and Peter Fulton, the highlight being very aggressive running between the wickets. Further contributions from the lower order ensured we remained competitive, although on a good track with even bounce this total was well within reach of the College.

The St. Bede’s bowling was solid with good contributions from Crean, Flanagan and Henderson, supported by keen, confident fielding.

The Willows achieved the start in the field they wanted with an opening spell from Stuart Stevens and Mark Coster that produced two wickets and minimum runs.

Veteran Rod Innes then combined with youngster Richard Leary in a miserly spell which lasted for their full complement of overs and bowled the Willows into a very commanding position.

The College entered the last 20 overs with only five wickets in hand and needing 100 runs. However, with an increased awareness of the need to become more aggressive between the wickets, several good partnerships began. Warren, Kramer and Crean ensured that in the last10 overs they had a chance.Under more pressure, the Willows fielding, which had become a little ragged, lifted again and supported a fine finishing spell from Stuart Stevens to ensure a win by 18 runs.

An entertaining match highlighted by the innings of Paul McCarthy and the prospect of a close finish.