SECONDS SLIDE TO DISAPPOINTING DEFEAT

Despite bowling out Austerlands for a modest 98 runs, the 2nds slumped to a very disappointing defeat by 8 runs on Saturday at Crompton Meadows.

A fine bowling and fielding performance saw father and son combo Steve and Danny Moriarty take three wickets each and Andy Schofield and Rob Holt chip in with two apiece to leave TSJCC 2nds needing just 99 to win.

A dodgy start, during which Austerlands' opening bowler took a hat-trick, was weathered thanks in part to an obdurate, Boycottesque innings by part-time opening bat, Andy Walker, who occupied the crease for over an hour while others scored runs at the other end. When he fell, unluckily bowled off his back leg, and the score at 50-odd for 4, the 2nds still only needed a little over two runs an over to get home.

Unfortunately, with easy runs passed up and a few golf shots being tried out in the middle, Austerlands were handed an improbable win to complete a season's double over TSJCC, following their opening day victory high in the hills above Oldham.

The verdict from all concerned was not good enough by a long chalk. The 2nds will be looking to bounce back quickly with another home game this coming Saturday against Darcy Lever.

Report courtesy Andy W