Match Report
Paultons v Hyde 22 June 08
Despite overnight rain, the morning was bright and breezy, and the wicket was in good shape due the elegant sophistication of covers! Hyde won the toss and chose to bowl first.
The strong wind made bowling a real challenge for the seam attack. The first pair left for field with all wickets intact and having put 7 runs on, although only 3 had come from the bat! Hugh came on to bowl into the wind and immediately struck, taking the first of 3 wickets in a very tidy spell of spin bowling. This middle period also saw some excellent fielding from all the Hyde team, as run-outs added to Paultons' problems. The last pair had clearly decided that they should put matters right and some good hitting saw Sam J undefeated on 18. The innings finished with the home side on 240 having lost 7 wickets.
Hyde's opening pair made a steady start loosing only 1 wicket and ending their 4 overs on 211. Hugh and Johnny came in second and played really well to progress, undefeated, to 232, both scoring boundaries. The inning progressed steadily and the last pair had just a few to get to secure the match. Paultons kept one of their key bowlers back to attack the last pair, but to no avail. Wheels top-scored with 14 and the innings finished with Hyde on 256 having lost 4 wickets.
Paultons put up a good fight and this match was closer than others this season, as expected from one of the major clubs in the Forest. However, this was a great team performance with several of the regular players rested or unavailable.
Well done all - another 5 points to ensure you maintain your position at the top of the table!
Thanks to Matt for umpiring and to Charles for scoring.
ps Patrick took 2 wickets for Hampshire u11 helping them to a good win against Surrey u11s. Go Paddy!