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21st April
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 71 all out
DARTFORD 1st XI 72-1
(Brentwood lost by nine wickets)
(Friendly)
With all the water around, it is hardly surprising that there was some rust in evidence at the Old County Ground on the first Saturday of the cricket season. It appeared however that the corrosion had not had such an effect south of the Thames.
Nigel Porter lost his first toss as Brentwood's new skipper and was not surprised to be asked to bat. He could only then sit and watch as one batsman after another failed to make use of the opportunity for some batting practice. Wickets tumbled at regular intervals, each given away rather than due to a mischievous pitch, with not one of Brentwood's batsmen making double figures while slumping to 46 for 9. Richard Whitehall at number eleven joined Porter, sharing a stand of 25 for the final wicket, with Whitehall making it to two digits scoring 12.
It took just nineteen overs for Dartford to polish off their meagre target, demonstrating that runs were available on the surface. Porter himself took the lone wicket to fall but it was always going to be too little too late. The only consolation for Brentwood may be that the previous two seasons have seen them lose their first match of the season but rather than friendlies, they were both exits from the league cup to opposition from lower divisions.
At least this heavy defeat may have seen some of the rust chipped off and the away fixture at Woodford Green next Saturday in the first round of the Shepherd Neame Essex League Cup may see them perform more toward their ability and progress to round two for the first time in three seasons.
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22nd April
SHENFIELD 1st XI 104-8
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 105-7
(Brentwood won by 3 wickets)
(Friendly)
This local friendly proved to be Matt Sutherland's first chance to demonstrate the skills he has brought with him from Australia. Starring with both bat and ball, Sutherland proved to be the difference between the two teams in a low scoring forty over match.
Batting first, Shenfield opener Roy Smith looked as if he meant to make full use of the opportunity to bat as he started to accumulate runs but his opening partner Hayes, fell to a spectacular catch from Dwight Johnson off the bowling of Stuart Townson as the score had reached 45. The break through made, spinners Sutherland and Nigel Porter were called into the attack and took command. Sutherland removed Smith, who failed to offer a shot at a ball that cut back sharply and was bowled and Porter bowled Jonathan Powell soon after.
In restricting Shenfield to just 104 in their allotted time, all the bowlers' figures were creditable but Sutherland was the pick, recording 3 for 13 off his 8 overs. Shenfield set about defending their total gallantly and opening bowler Jarvis removed both openers in a spell of 2 for 8 off 7 overs. At 41 for 4 Brentwood looked decidedly shaky but Sutherland came to the rescue. His 58, including 7 fours and a sweetly timed six off the bowling of his Australian counterpart Weber, insured that Brentwood would record a victory, even though Weber would gain his revenge by bowling Sutherland just before the end.
As the players trooped in two-by-two for the pre-season get together, was it an olive branch poking up from the ebbing flood waters that cover Brentwood Cricket Club's square? Maybe? What is at least certain is that the season is supposed to start in a few short weeks, weather permitting. For the members of Brentwood CC there is a new chairman, a new first team captain, a host of new players, but the same objective of having every team playing Shepherd Neame Premier League cricket by next season. The third and fourth teams secured their places last season, both promoted as champions, so this year it's the turn of the first and second elevens. With Nigel Porter taking over the first team helm, he will be encouraged to see that it is at the top level that the joining players have the pedigree to perform.
This week saw the arrival from Australia of Matt Sutherland, the clubs registered overseas player who offers top order batting and off-breaks to complement the skipper's left-arm orthodox spin. Donning the gloves behind the stumps will be David Morgan, Essex under-19 squad member who will also add to the top order. The theme of all-round talent in the side is further underlined by the acquisition of Jason Brown from Old Brentwood's and the good news that Nick Haste will not be leaving due to work relocation, as had been expected. There may be icing on the cake for Porter, as the cricket committee are waiting for clarification from the league that a Pakistani professional cricketer, in possession of a British passport and a fast ball clocked at 85 miles-per-hour, is eligible to play. With all this new talent available and if Danny Hazle can produce the early season form of last year that saw his first three knocks producing centuries, then Brentwood may well be the team to catch in the first division.
Stuart Townson's second eleven will reap the benefit of the competition for places in the top flight and must be strongly favoured to go at least one better than last year's third place finish and secure promotion to their respective premier division. The Club, now chaired by Ken Lingwood, has worked hard to ensure that Brentwood CC continues to provide a standard of cricket for anyone interested in joining. Five teams will be in league action on a Saturday, hopefully featuring many of the colts that will be playing from age groups of under-11's up to under-16's. From this season, the selection policy of the club will be that at least two colts must feature in the second, third and fourth teams, promoting the best interests of home-grown talent and with a view to the club's future.
Ladies cricket, a new introduction and a great success from last season, will hopefully go from strength to strength. More fixtures have been arranged for this year and captain Lavinia Davis hopes to add new members to the squad that saw four county trialists in their first season and Lorna Stuart representing Scotland. Any lady wishing to give cricket a try, should go along to Ladies training at 7pm on Mondays at the Old County Ground and all the equipment and instruction you need will be available. So if the forty days and forty nights finish by the end of April, then the cricket pitch, currently hidden beneath the flood waters, should certainly see some fine cricket played by all the teams Brentwood CC has to offer this season.
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5 May
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 205-8
WOODFORD GREEN 1st XI 110 all out
Brentwood won by 95 runs
(Shepherd Neame League Cup, 1st Round)
The first competitive fixture of the slow to get going season saw Brentwood turn in a confident performance against an opposition from two divisions below them. The first half an hour though looked as if the result may be anything but as the form book suggested it should be. A lost toss saw Brentwood asked to bat first and subsequently lose opener Matt Sutherland in the very first over. His partner Nauman Javed, in his first game for the club, was unable to demonstrate his batting abilities and was soon to follow.
The conditions were allowing the ball to seam and swing, no doubt contributing to Danny Hazle misjudging and padding up to an inswinger that saw him adjudged l.b.w. Seven overs in to the innings and Brentwood were reeling at 20 for three and an upset looked on the cards. It was at this point however that the partnership that proved to be decisive was formed between Micky Davis and Steve Taylor. The pair added 90 and although Taylor's run tally was only 17 when he was dismissed, his contribution as an anchor while Davis scored freely at the other end was far more valuable than his score suggests. Davis dominated all the bowlers, never looking in trouble and guided Brentwood past 200 in the allotted 45 overs. He reached his own personal landmark of a century in 135 balls, hitting 10 fours and 2 sixes and eventually carrying his bat with 111.
Woodford Green's bowlers had become disheartened by Davis' efforts and had added to their problems by conceding 48 extras. An amassed total of 205 was always going to be daunting, especially under the conditions and still very damp outfield. Brentwood set about defending their impressive total in positive fashion, looking to take wickets early on by employing three slips for Perry Lawless and Nauman Javed. Lawless didn't need them however, removing both openers by hitting the stumps and with Javed's express pace at the other end, Woodford Green's batsmen must have realised early on that the task would be beyond them.
There was some resistance from Green's Halford, who hit a belligerent 45 but he succumbed to the wile and guile of skipper Nigel Porter. Porter had introduced himself to the attack to remove what seemed the only potential danger and having done so, turned over the responsibility for securing victory to spin partner Sutherland and seventeen year old James Smith, another new recruit. Sutherland grabbed four wickets in his spell but equally impressive was Smith, who deserved more than the one wicket he collected. Unavailable regular seamers Nick Haste and Richard Whitehall will be well aware that on these bowling performances, competition for places will be hot this season. Javed completed the game, upon his recall, by dismissing the last two batsmen with consecutive deliveries.
It was somehow fitting that Woodford Green's total was 110, one run less than Davis had scored in his match winning innings. With few other fixtures taking place, Brentwood will have to wait to see who they will play in the next round and when. This victory will however set the standard they will hope to emulate in their first league match next Saturday, away at Westcliff.
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UPMINSTER 4th XI 164-7
BRENTWOOD 4th XI 107-9
Match drawn
(Friendly)
A first outing for the fourth team newly promoted to the premier league saw them pitted against the side that won that league the previous season. Just managing to hold on for a draw demonstrated the standards they can expect to face this year.
Deciding to bat first, Upminster's batsmen all contributed to their score, with no outstanding innings. For Brentwood, newcomer Imran Rahim claimed three for 42 and was ably supported by Paul Webb, taking two for 22. Too much of the bowling was wayward though, as 48 extras were conceded in the total of 164.
In reply, none of Brentwood's batsmen got going against tight bowling and were soon staring defeat in the face. They can be grateful to bowlers Rob Coote and Webb for saving the game, batting out the last thirteen overs of the match for the last wicket. Next Saturday sees the start of their premier league campaign, away at Hadleigh and Thundersley, and the team will need a better performance if they are to commence with a win.
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12th May
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 223-7
WESTCLIFF 1st XI 224-3
Brentwood lost by 7 wickets
(Shepherd Neame division one)
WEAKENED WOOD PAY THE PRICE
Brentwood travelled to Chalkwell Park knowing that injuries and lack of availability meant they were weaker than they would have wished for their first league match of the campaign. At the outset however, everything seemed to be going well as Matt Sutherland progressed quickly to 30, scoring at a run a ball. His dismissal slowed the scoring for a time, until an excellent partnership between Danny Hazle and Gary Jones. Hazle started last season with two consecutive league hundreds and it seemed that he might be heading for another season opening ton. However he went for 71 and when his partner Jones followed for 64, after a typically free-scoring effort, there wasn't a further notable contribution from any of the tail. Posting 223, while achieving maximum bonus points, seemed a reasonable effort, but it was to prove to be insufficient to stave off defeat.
Seam bowling was in short supply and although Perry Lawless bowled a tight line, there was little penetration. Lawless can consider himself unfortunate however, as when Australian opener Green had made only four, he was adjudged not out to a vociferous caught behind appeal. Westcliff now had a platform from which to build having reached 80 without loss and skipper Nigel Porter was required to bring himself into the attack, along with Sutherland. Porter made the breakthrough and Sutherland soon followed the lead and when Porter struck again, the draw looked the most likely outcome. With only seven overs left in the game there was seventy runs, or seven wickets still needed for either side to win and likely had become almost inevitable. Green had other ideas however and began the onslaught that saw him win the game with an over to spare and finishing on 130 not out. His early survival had been significant indeed.
Looking at the positives from this game, Brentwood can be pleased with gaining 9 points and also the form of two of the batsmen. They can also be happy with the performance of 19-year-old wicketkeeper David Morgan, who performed well on debut for the club. They will certainly need a strike force however, in order to seek victory next week when they entertain Woodford Wells.
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BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 139 all out
WESTCLIFF 2nd XI 140-1
Brentwood lost by 9 wickets
(Shepherd Neame division one)
POOR START FOR PROMOTION HOPEFULS
Brentwood skipper Stuart Townson gave due thought to whether to bat or bowl first on a good wicket at the Old County Ground. He decided as the team was weakened through poor availability to try to amass a decent score, thereby gaining bonus points, and to attempt to defend it later. He was unfortunately let down by his top order, as David Smith, Stuart Fomes and Dave Murphy all fell before the score had reached double figures. Trevor Coote and Townson himself formed the only meaningful partnership of the innings, taking the score past 100 for five wickets, Townson going on to reach a well deserved 60. When he fell however, there was little more resistance against Westcliff's tight bowling and Brentwood could only set a target of 140 to win.
On this pitch, the total was never going to be enough. Westcliff's openers scored slowly but keeping their wickets in tact assured them of a straightforward victory. Brentwood could not find an inspirational bowling performance to raise their chances and the visitors completed an easy victory with seven overs to spare, for the loss of a solitary wicket.
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FIVES AND HERONIANS 3rd XI 197-7
BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 176-8
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame premier league)
MORRITT NOT QUITE ENOUGH
Brentwood won the toss and elected to field in their first game in the premier division. Tight bowling restricted the scoring early on but no wickets fell before the introduction of Paul Webb and Nigel Mackay, making his first appearance for the club and recording figures of 24 for two from seven overs. Skipper Ken Lingwood got in on the wicket-taking act, using his rarely seen off-spinners to claim three victims. All round tight bowling and good fielding enabled Brentwood to restrict Fives to three short of the benchmark figure of two hundred.
The loss of openers Jason Swan and Barry Brooks early on made the task more daunting, but at least this allowed Steve Morritt to the crease. He formed valuable partnerships with Lingwood and then Mackay, capping a good all round game, and looked like taking Brentwood to victory. His departure just eleven short of what would have been a well-deserved hundred, unfortunately also realistically ended his side's chances of victory and Brentwood could only reach 176 for 8 at the close.
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HADLEIGH & THUNDERSLEY 4th XI 82 all out
BRENTWOOD 4th XI 83-3
Brentwood won by 7 wickets
(Shepherd Neame premier league)
BUSINESS AS USUAL
Brentwood carried on where they left off last season by bowling out their opposition cheaply and knocking the runs off with ease. Neil Webb and Vithy Sivakumaran did the damage at the top of the order, claiming 23 for two and 26 for three respectively. Rob Brett was to follow their example by bowling well at the end recording 12 for three.
The simple matter of polishing off the runs was completed in a mere fourteen overs. Jim Lingwood hammering 24 and Chris Eaton ending the rout with 28 not out. Premier league status seem to have nothing to fear for newly promoted Brentwood on this early season showing.
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BUCKHURST HILL 4th XI 162 all out
BRENTWOOD 5th XI 102-9
Match Drawn
(Shepherd Neame division one)
SUMAN SAVES THE DAY
Brentwood is able to field a fifth team on a Saturday and compete in the lower division of the fourth team leagues. A tough start for their young side, as they just managed to hold on for a draw against their visitors. Bowling first, the experience of Ken Hobbs saw him bag three wickets and he was well supported by Suman Sivakumaran, 37 for two and Simon Manterfield, 19 for two.
Buckhurst Hill's total was too many with only Mark Donkin offering much resistance while making a welcome return to the club, scoring a belligerent 45. Sivakumaran saved the day at the end, capping a good all-round performance by being undefeated on 19.
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13 May
WRITTLE LADIES 83-6
BRENTWOOD LADIES 27 all out
(Friendly 25 over match)
DAVIS - A FINE CATCH!
A bad start to the season then for the ladies who never threatened the score of their hosts. All had started well for Brentwood, as Lorna Stuart continued her fine form from last season, by bowling an excellent spell of 21 for three off ten overs. Stuart was well supported by Jane Harrington and Lavinia Davis, taking one and two wickets respectively. It was Davis though who illuminated the fielding performance by taking a truly exceptional one-handed catch that had all those watching on their feet applauding. There is not much to report on Brentwood's efforts with the bat, only Philippa Webb threatening double figures, by scoring 9.
The ladies haven't had a chance to practice as yet in just their second season and with a few sessions scheduled, their performances are sure to improve.
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19th May
WOODFORD WELLS 1st XI 152-6
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 91-9
Match Drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
MORGAN STAVES OFF DEFEAT
The two teams could be grateful for the opportunity to play cricket on a weekend once again ravaged by the midweek weather. Brentwood's Old County Ground has fared better than most, but the conditions were still going to be difficult with a slow pitch and wet outfield.
Skipper Nigel Porter had little to deliberate having won the toss and immediately asked Wells to bat first. Porter would have hoped for early breakthroughs but their absence was pivotal to the shape of the whole game. Allowing 48 runs in the first 12 overs on a seamer friendly surface was disappointing and it wasn't long before Porter introduced himself to the attack, along with spin colleague Matt Sutherland. Both would have wished for more pace and bounce from the track to penetrate but at least they were able to stem the flow of runs.
The first wicket to fall came from an excellent piece of fielding from Micky Davis, scoring a direct hit and he was to follow this feat with two more fine efforts, the last of which required the bails to be removed swiftly by wicketkeeper David Morgan. Sutherland was the only bowler to take a wicket on the day, ending up with figures of three for 50 off 20 overs. Porter's efforts are still worthy of mention, his usual frugal return of none for 42 off 21 overs providing excellent support.
A total of 153 to win would usually be the sort of number Brentwood would relish but the conditions meant that total was in fact worth a great deal more.
Brentwood's batting self-destruction started as early as the third over, with an appalling call leading to opener Steve Taylor being run out well short of his ground. Other opener, Chris Boon was soon to follow clean bowled and when in form batsman Davis was unable to match his fielding exploits, departing without scoring, the game was already beyond Brentwood.
Danny Hazle and Sutherland set about saving the game well, playing watchfully and sharing a 50 partnership. However, when Hazle (39) and Sutherland (19) departed in quick succession, the game was firmly in Wells' favour. Two run outs followed, inexplicable under the circumstances, and certain defeat loomed. There was one last decent performance from David Morgan to come, as he occupied the crease for 21 overs. The last wicket stand with Richard Whitehall lasted out the final 8 overs and denied Wells their victory. Morgan's technique may well demand him rising up the order.
Brentwood travel to Billericay next week, knowing that this team are keen to regain premier league status and will be a tough opponent.
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WOODFORD WELLS 3rd XI 131 all out
BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 132-8
Brentwood won by 2 wickets
(Shepherd Neame Premier League)
BULLDOG DRUMMOND PROVES THE DIFFERENCE
Skipper Ken Lingwood won the toss, a most significant event in shaping this game. Inserted, Woodford Wells had to bat in the difficult conditions not knowing what a decent total might be. They started cautiously against tight spells from Darren Clements and Andrew Mackay, both unlucky to see sharp slip catches spilled and could never exceed 2 runs per over.
Brentwood, firmly with the initiative, introduced Paul Drummond's medium pace and James Apicella's off spin. They tore into the Wells' batting line up, Drummond claiming 5 wickets and Apicella 4.
Facing 132 to win, Brentwood realized the conditions might prove to be as difficult for them. Opener Barry Brooks set about constructing an innings perfect under the circumstances and anchored the team while reaching a thoroughly deserved half-century. On his departure for 54, there was still work to done. Jim Lingwood decided attack was the best way, hammering a quick-fire 20 but wickets were falling at the other end. It was fitting that Drummond was the man who steadied the ship and saw the home side record a victory, as it was his fine bowling that had set up the win earlier.
With this first premier league win under their belts, the thirds look like they have the confidence to mount a challenge for the title.
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BRENTWOOD 4th XI 230-2
SOUTHEND 4th XI 86 all out
Brentwood won by 144 runs
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
SHANE SMASHES CENTURY
At 5 for the loss of two wickets, Brentwood looked like struggling against a Southend side who had asked their visitors to bat first. They hadn't bargained for the arrival at the crease of Shane Surujbally, joining his skipper Alan Houston. The pair put on an unbroken partnership of 225 runs with Surujbally smashing 150 not out, his fantastic effort included no less than 8 sixes and 13 fours. Houston, the experienced anchor, ended on 55 not out. With ball in hand, Brentwood were equally dominant. Opener Mike Hornsby all but ended the game as a contest by claiming six for 14 in his thirteen overs. The rout was completed by Rob Coote, recording figures of two for 5 off 8.4 overs.
A good win then for the newly promoted fourths but on the performance of Surujbally, they may not have his services next week, as he can well expect to be selected for a higher team.
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HORNCHURCH 4th XI 184-6
BRENTWOOD 5th XI 64-6
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
TOTAL TOO TOUGH
The fifths elected to field first but would have hoped to restrict Hornchurch a little more than they were able. Simon Manterfield proved the most effective bowler on the day, recording two for 51, but he had little wicket taking support and two run outs were needed to restrict the visitors to 184-6.
Facing a big score, it didn't take long before the team found themselves way behind the run rate and losing wickets too frequently. The game was heading for an inevitable draw and James Coulson used the opportunity to get some time at the crease, batting out the last 30 overs for 20 not out.
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20th May
BRENTWOOD 226-4
BULPHAN 60 all out
Brentwood won by 166 runs
(40 over match)
WELL DONE, MY SON!
Stuart Fomes celebrated the birth of his son Alexander with a promise that the first time he was there to watch at the Old County Ground, he would score a century. Although Alexander didn't seem to take much notice, his father duly obliged, scoring 125 not out.
The scene had been set by David Smith (31) and Julian Ashby (29) opening the innings, for Fomes to come in and bludgeon the weak attack, hitting 6 sixes in the process. Reaching 226 in forty overs was a huge score considering the still wet outfield and was always going to be difficult for Bulphan to surmount.
Brentwood's bowling performance matched their batting, led by 13 year-old Carl Manterfield, who showed enormous potential while recording three for 12.
The star of the show was undoubtedly Mick Payne however, whose four for 17 included a rare hat trick. Bulphan were obviously way out of their depth and succumbed for just 60, giving Brentwood a crushing victory.
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2nd June 2001
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 187 all out
SOUTH WOODFORD 1st XI 165-8
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame division one)
Brentwood skipper Nigel Porter won the toss for the first time this season and elected to bat first on what proved to be a good wicket. Chris Boon and Matt Sutherland opened the Brentwood innings, hoping to match their century partnership of the previous week. However this was not to be the case. Sutherland was first out having scored 15, caught by the wicketkeeper when attempting to hook Wasim, the South Woodford opening bowler. Boon departed in the 10th over, caught at gully, to leave Brentwood on 25-2. This left Taylor and Davis at the wicket needing to consolidate the innings. The two batted sensibly adding 40 runs for the third wicket, before Taylor was out, adjudged lbw. Gary Jones batted number 5 and in conjunction with Davis took the Brentwood score past 100. Indeed the diminutive pair batted with confidence, dominating the South Woodford bowling. With Brentwood well placed on 147, the two quickly departed and the side looked to the middle order to push the total over 200. However all-rounder Nicholas Haste and bowler Richard Whitehall were unable to reproduce their batting heroics of the previous week and Brentwood were bowled out for 187 off 49 overs.
Due to the slow over-rate of the opposition, Brentwood had only two hours in which to try to bowl-out South Woodford and win the game. For the first time this season, Whitehall and Haste bowled successfully with the new ball. Both bowled with good pace and accuracy, but it was the senior partner Whitehall who made the breakthrough, wicketkeeper David Morgan taking a catch behind the stumps. With the score on 34 for three, S.Woodford then recovered more through luck than judgment. Both batsmen played and missed regularly, but Brentwood was unable to break the partnership. As the visitors sensed an outside chance of victory, Porter decided to bowl himself and Australian, Sutherland. The decision worked as Woodford, slogging for victory, gave the two spinners four wickets between them. With five overs left, Brentwood needed to take three wickets to win the game. Whitehall was recalled to the attack and immediately won an l.b.w. decision. However, despite some strange shot selection from the opposition batsmen, Brentwood were unable to take further wickets and the match ended in a draw.
Next week Brentwood travel to Chelmsford and will be looking for a victory to further their promotion challenge.
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HAINAULT AND CLAYHALL 2nd XI 177-7
BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 178-9
Brentwood won by 1 wicket
(Shepherd Neame division one)
Stuart Townson, Brentwood's skipper was a relieved man after seeing his side gain their first league win of this season. This game was a true roller coaster, with each team looking to have the game won at various stages. Townson won the toss and invited the hosts to bat first and was delighted with the tight opening spells from Perry Lawless and James Smith. With off-spinner Richard Wall proving equally frugal, Hainault & Clayhall found themselves strangled to 80 for five in 38 overs. They did however use the remainder of their 52 overs to good effect, reaching 177 for seven. It could have been even more had Townson himself not bowled so well at the death, conceding only 11 runs from the last 3 overs from his end.
With small boundaries and a surprisingly fast outfield, the total still looked fifty short of being competitive. The bowlers struggled to find the right line and were punished early on by Trevor Coote and Stuart Fomes. Both gave away their wickets however, seemingly trying to win the game in boundaries but at 70 for three, the game still looked like Brentwood's for the taking. There then followed an England-style middle order collapse, with four wickets falling with the score remaining on 70. Hainault & Clayhall could be forgiven for believing it was just a matter of time until they tied up their victory, as there were still 20 overs left in the game. They hadn't expected number nine Richard Wall to bat as well as he had bowled and he joined number five, Ian Belchamber who had stood and watched the tumbling wickets from the other end. A nail-biting partnership of 78 followed, taking Brentwood tantalisingly close, but when Wall went for 41and was followed soon after by keeper, Bobby Golding, Brentwood still needed 25 to win. The body language said Hainault & Clayhall believed they had done enough again and they crowded round last man Perry Lawless. He stood firm though, marshalled by Belchamber, and Townson and his team stood silently on the sidelines nervously counting down the runs. Only when 2 byes were scampered and Belchamber had reached 38, taking Brentwood to an unlikely victory, did the team start a celebration they believed they would not get to enjoy.
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BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 201-9
HAINAULT AND CLAYHALL 3rd XI 133-6
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame premier league)
Disappointed to lose the toss, skipper Ken Lingwood was surprised to see his top order fail to cope with an unusually mischievous pitch at The Drive. Reeling at 18 for three, Lingwood was joined by Dean Goddard and between them they set about resurrecting the innings. A partnership of 91 saw Lingwood make it to a well deserved half-century but he lost Goddard after he had made 40.
The tail wagged well, notably Tony Prior making 33 and keeper James Riley 28no. Recording 201, achieving maximum batting points, was an excellent return on the surface and was always going to be a tough ask of their visitors.
Prior opened the bowling with Darren Clements and between them allowed few runs although only Prior managed to make a breakthrough. The slow start for Hainault & Clayhall made their difficult task almost impossible and soon looked to do no more than save the game. This they did, but Brentwood were sorry not to get closer to victory, still needing a further four wickets at the close.
Lingwood can console himself that the bonus points gleaned keeps his side in second spot in the league.
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HAINAULT AND CLAYHALL 4th XI 178-8
BRENTWOOD 4th XI 179-7
Brentwood won by 3 wickets
(Shepherd Neame premier league)
Four matches and four wins for the fourth's, who having won promotion last year have kept the habit of winning. Winning the toss, they invited their hosts to bat and a good all round performance saw them restrict their target to 179. With the confidence evident in the side, this total was well within their reach after a solid start. The winning of the game was left to Nigel Mackay, who followed up his good bowling performance by scoring a fine 53 not out.
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BRENTWOOD 5th XI 184 all out
LOUGHTON 4th XI 158-8
Match Drawn
(Shepherd Neame division one)
The highlight of Brentwood's innings was a fine century from Tony Jones, making 102 before being the last man out. His knock included 8 fours and 4 sixes.
Loughton never really threatened the total, especially after a fine diving catch by Tony Dann removed their top scorer, Scalfor for 42. Jones followed up his batting by taking two for 9 and was supported by Ash Patel, recording two for 23.
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BRENTWOOD 6th XI 146-9
BLUEHOUSE 5th XI 86 all out
The club was delighted to be able to field a sixth team for the first time in it's history. They got off to winning ways, featuring nine colts aged sixteen or under. The batting stars were thirteen-year-olds Kerrie Branson who scored 41 and Rohan Sivapalan, making 44.
Equally impressive were the efforts of the bowlers. Paul Howlett, Karth Ravindran and Deni Mistry all took two wickets, setting up twelve-year-old leg spinner Chris Boon to finish the match with figures of three for 8.
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3rd June
BRENTWOOD 258 all out
UPMINSTER 197 all out
Brentwood won by 61 runs
(Ibex Sunday Premier League)
Scorecard
- link to the Upminster CC web site
Brentwood took a strong side to Upminster, keen to challenge for the premier league title having been promoted last year.
Skipper Paul Larner opened the innings with Ian Belchamber and the pair gave the innings a solid foundation. Larner's departure in the tenth over allowed Stuart Fomes to the crease, who immediately set about picking up the pace. Belchamber anchored the partnership, while Fomes blazed away and the pair had put on 113 when Belchamber succumbed for 35. Matt Sutherland came in and knowing there was plenty of batting to come, played his shots from the start. The scoreboard was rattling along and even when Sutherland and Fomes, having reached his second century of the season, both went, a large score loomed for Upminster to chase.
With Sutherland and fellow first team regular Richard Whitehall bowling in the side, Brentwood knew they would be able to defend their large total. The only danger seemed to come from Upminster's Australian batsman Lorne Sprigg, who made 44 before being brilliantly stumped by Larner. A fine victory then for Brentwood, who if they can field as strong a side for the rest of the Sunday League, may realise their title aspirations.
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BRENTWOOD LADIES 144-5
BILLERICAY LADIES 124-4
Brentwood won by 20 runs
(Friendly 30 over match)
ODDY - HALF CENTURY INNINGS
A clear improvement in performance after a bad start to the season. Batting first, Brentwood opened with Andrea Allen and Alison Oddy - a fine partnership that allowed Brentwood to reach 97 runs in the 18th over before the first wicket fell, Oddy bowled by Walter. Oddy's exceptional performance of 63 provided Brentwood with their first ever half century. Upon departure of Oddy, came Kay Burns, who continued the good batting performance helping Brentwood to 124 in the 24th over before Allen was run out. Burns soon followed at 125, clean bowled Moore. Lorna Stuart with Lavinia Davis notched up a few more runs before the fall of the 5th wicket with only 3 balls to go, Stuart bowled by Robinson. Jane Harrington faced the final three to balls, Brentwood finishing on 144. Brentwood's bowling was again supported by a fine fielding performance to keep the run rate low, showing a true team effort. A good batting partnership from C Beasley and A Connor developed, running up 72 before the first wicket fell in the 19th over, Beasley bowled by Jenny Dowling on her debut appearance for Brentwood, while recording one for 7 off 3 overs) The next wicket fell after Billericay reached 98 in the 24th over, C Roberts caught by Allen. Conner (still in from the start) and D Robinson then formed another good partnership to reach 111 in the 26th over before the third wicket fell, Robinson caught behind by Claire Lingwood - more great keeping from Lingwood resulted in another catch from the bowling of Davis, returning two for 16 off 4 overs. Conner continued with C Mower (retired) and V Moore to reach a score of 115 in the 29th over (Conner on 43) before being bowled by L Stuart. W Prichard came in for the final balls to result in Billericay finishing on 124. a fine win for the ladies then, whose season should now go from strength to strength.
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9th June
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 159-7
CHELMSFORD 1st XI 162-2
Brentwood lost by 8 wickets
(Shepherd Neame Division 1)
Poor availability of senior players and a paucity of top order batting is undermining Brentwood's chances of challenging for promotion this season and preventing them from being competitive at all in some of their fixtures. A dismal performance against their hosts gleaned no points at all for Brentwood as their mediocre total of 159-7 took 65 overs to accumulate.
As with many of the games this season, early wickets fell and the middle order was exposed to the new ball too early in the piece. This week the score read two wickets for just three runs and the writing was already on the wall. Chris Boon and Matt Sutherland had gone in the first two overs and enormous pressure was put upon regular run scores Danny Hazle and Micky Davis. They were unable to produce this week and the only top order run-getter proved to be Steve Taylor. Taylor played watchfully, unable to display his usual expansive game and ended up with a well deserved half-century. He found support from the late middle-order from David Morgan, whose solid technique enabled him to make 31. When the allocated 52 overs arrived, Brentwood had only mustered 113 for 5 and batting on was the only course of action available. They managed to get the score to 159-7 before finally declaring.
Chelmsford proved able to dominate with the bat just as easily as they had done with the ball. Even though their time was restricted due to Brentwood extended innings, they still had plenty of time to pass their target. None of Brentwood's bowlers could make inroads, nor restrict the scoring sufficiently, as the inevitable defeat loomed. Chelmsford's Rod West was the main tormentor, scoring an undefeated 95. Criticism of the bowlers should be tempered, as it was doubtless demoralising trying to win, or even save a game, with such a small total.
Brentwood will need to find decent opening stands, as in the defeat of Billericay, if they wish to turn their season around. Obviously missing regular opener Graeme Walker, who is suffering with a long term injury, Skipper Nigel Porter will also hope that he can select from the best players, not just those who are available, for the visit of Wickford next week.
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BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 224 all out
SAFFRON WALDEN 2nd XI 177-4
Match Drawn
(Shepherd Neame Division 1)
It's a long drive from Saffron Walden and unfortunately it seemed that someone forgot to pack some ambition. Having won the toss and deciding to insert their hosts, Saffron Walden made little attempt to overhaul the target set by Brentwood on a sublime batting pitch.
Brentwood's openers started off conservatively, reaching 20 in the first 6 overs. David Smith then unfortunately for the second week running offered no shot to a delivery that clipped his off stump. His departure allowed the arrival at the crease of in-form Stuart Fomes, who had scored centuries in two of his last three innings. Starting as he meant to go on, Fomes crashed his first ball through the covers for four, one of 13 boundaries in his innings. Trevor Coote provided excellent support in a partnership of 113 before he departed for a well-constructed 42.
Fomes innings was to come to an end 15 short of another century but the middle order kept up the run rate, with Paul Larner the most notable contributor with 34. Brentwood however failed to make best use of the closing overs, only managing 42 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in the final 10 overs. Batting on well past 200 had seemed the correct course of action on the excellent pitch and a refreshingly fast outfield giving full value for good strokes.
Saffron Walden's openers never really approached the run rate that was required and credit for this must go to bowlers Perry Lawless and James Smith. Sixteen-year-old Smith is looking a better prospect every week and his return of one for 24 from 11 overs on this surface was testament to his line and length. Wickets were hard to come by for the toiling bowlers and Walden's Rowlandson who made the top score of 69 was in fact, eventually run out in bizarre fashion, having tried a second run when dropped in the deep by Larner. Larner's good arm made up for his questionable hands!
The last hour arrived with Saffron Walden needing 140 to win with eight wickets still in tact. It was disappointing that when they lost another, they gave up attempting the target and the game fizzled out to a draw. Brentwood rushed through their overs, indeed managing 21 in the last hour, with the only action a late flurry from Walden to achieve a bonus point for passing 175.
9 points for the home side then, which upon reflection is a decent enough return from a game having lost the toss.
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BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 200-8
WANSTEAD 3rd XI 128-8
Match Drawn
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
Skipper Ken Lingwood was again cursing his luck after losing the toss for the third successive week. Brentwood have dominated their oppositions in all their games so far but winning is difficult from batting first in the Premier league, and this game was to prove just the same.
Brentwood gained maximum batting points by reaching 200 and in a positive move declared, having used only 48 of their allocated 52 overs. The highlight of the innings was a splendid century from Steve Morritt, who batted through the innings to remain unbeaten on 112. His well-constructed effort came from 137 balls and he was ably supported by Dean Goddard, who made 31 to follow up his good form from last week.
Brentwood's bowlers performed far better than had their hosts and were easily able to restrict the scoring rate. Also, wickets were falling at fairly regular intervals and soon it was only Brentwood who could have any hope of victory. It was not to be however, as was the case in the last three weeks and the tail-enders kept out the bowlers' best efforts, victory being cruelly denied. The pick of the attack had been Mike Hornsby, who returned four for 37 from his 15 overs.
Eleven points then for Lingwood's men and still scrapping in the top part of the table. Should the toss percentage even itself out, then victories are sure to follow for a team on top of it's game.
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BRENTWOOD 4th XI 211-5
WANSTEAD 4th XI 172-9
Match Drawn
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
The fourth team were denied victory for the first time this season but came very close none the less. A lost toss saw them asked to bat first and they took the Wanstead attack apart from the word go. Mark Donkin top scored with 76 not out and not far behind was Nigel Mackay with 72. Runs came so freely, the declaration came as early as the 37th over. This allowed Brentwood the best part of three hours to dismiss their opponents but the final wicket refused to fall to leave Brentwood with maximum bonus points of 12. Neil Webb starred with the ball, claiming five for 28 from his 16 overs.
Due to other results, Brentwood actually strengthens their position at the top of the Premier league.
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BRENTWOOD 5th XI 160 all out
WEST ESSEX 4th XI 126 all out
Brentwood won by 34 runs
(Shepherd Neame Division 1)
The first win for Brentwood's fifth eleven competing in the first division of the fourth team leagues. They were asked to bat first and set a decent target for their opposition of 161 to win. It proved to be more than enough as wickets fell at regular intervals until victory was secured. The star for Brentwood was D. Barbone, who recorded bowling figures of five for 34.
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BRENTWOOD 6th XI 81 all out
EDMONTON 5th XI 82-8
Brentwood lost by 2 wickets
(Friendly)
An exciting finish saw the sixth's lose to Edmonton by just two wickets. Brentwood could be thankful to Michael Sheehan who scored 42, the only man to reach double figures, in reaching their modest score. The bowlers however kept the contest alive, with brothers Owen Myers, four for 15 and Connor Myers, two for one being the pick of the bunch. A narrow defeat then for the sixth's but another good day for the Brentwood Cricket club in fielding six teams again on a Saturday.
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10th June
BROOMHILLS 245-7
BRENTWOOD 229 all out
Brentwood lost by 16 runs
(IBEX Sunday Premier League)
Brentwood's Sunday Club XI skipper Larner, lost his first toss of the season and was asked to chase for the first time this year. An initially strong opening spell from James Smith and Stuart Townson , supported by Matt Sutherland, left Broomhills at 90-5 but their opener Thornhill (96) was joined by Wade (73) and they put on 110 for the sixth wicket. Their efforts were aided by some poor Brentwood bowling and fielding in the latter stages of the innings.
Broomhills subsequently cruised to 245 that left Brentwood needing 5 and a half runs an over. Despite some solid batting from Fomes (58) and expansive stroke play from Larner (45), Brentwood were always fractionally behind the required rate. It was left to James Smith to get them to their maximum batting points at the end, by passing 225.
Brentwood will need to bowl better in their next league game at home to Broomhills from Chelmsford. They will however be boosted by the return of opening bowlers Ian Moore and Richard Whitehall for this fixture.
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BRENTWOOD U-11's 209-9
BENTLEY U-11's 216-8
Brentwood lost by 7 runs
Bentley's nerve held in a nail biting finish to this terrier format league game at The Old County Ground last Sunday. Brentwood made a good start with James Boon and Oliver Rooke increasing the 200 run start to 218 after their allocated 4 overs. Then good bowling by Bentley set the Brentwood innings back on its heels before Dom Elvin and Tom Coulson initiated something of a recovery. Ed Allen and Dave Younger did well but some late wickets left the Brentwood score at 209 that was going to be difficult to defend. The early Brentwood bowling was not straight enough and after 14 overs, Bentley looked as though they would end as comfortable winners. However Brentwood's bowling tightened and a flurry of wickets left Bentley needing to survive the last over without losing a wicket. On the balance of play they deserved their close win. Dom Elvin was Brentwood's man-of-the-match with 9 not out, 2 wickets and a fine catch.
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23rd June
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 182 All Out
ILFORD 1st XI 157-5
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
At the conclusion of this game, the Brentwood fielders left the ground scratching their heads in some bewilderment. Everything had been as expected, as Ilford, a renowned chasing side, inserted their visitors on a hard, fast pitch and set about bowling their overs as quickly as possible. Everything seemed geared up for a second innings run chase, no matter what score Brentwood were able to post. The way the game progressed proved contrary to expectations.
David Morgan was asked to open the innings for Brentwood for the first time this season and shouldered the responsibility well. Scoring freely from the word go, Morgan soon had the field spread and continued to display shots all round the wicket, based on a solid technique. He had good support from Chris Boon, playing in considerable discomfort having received a sharp blow on the index finger, and the pair put on 60 for the opening wicket. Danny Hazle joined the party, playing aggressively and with the score on 140 for one in thirty-five overs, Brentwood looked like amassing a large total.
It was at this point however, that things started to go wrong. Hazle mis-pulled a long hop, sending an easy catch to square leg and the promising partnership was broken. Stuart Fomes, promoted to the firsts, was unable to make any impression and was soon followed back to the pavilion by Matt Sutherland. When Morgan finally departed for 80, Brentwood had lost four wickets for just ten runs. Their chief tormentor was Shareef, who took six for 59. There was to be no wagging of the tail and the innings came to a disappointing conclusion at 182.
At this stage then Ilford looked firm favourites to overhaul the mediocre total. Their two openers, whose pinch-hitting style is well known, set about business as usual, smashing 60 off the first seven overs. Brentwood had tried to slow them down by using the old ball and Sutherland's spin from one end, but it had been to no avail. It was when Nick Haste and Richard Whitehall took the new ball that the game changed unexpectedly. Whitehall dismissed both openers, Kandola for 58 and then the third and fourth batsmen inexplicably went into their shells. Whitehall and Haste bowled a tight line, good enough to restrict the scoring, but the batsmen's lack of desire to play any shots was pushing up the rate. Brentwood worked hard in the field, expecting the chase to start, but it never did. Only 94 were needed off the last twenty overs, with eight wickets intact, but the batsmen just kept blocking. With ten overs left, Ilford needed 72 and Whitehall was to strike on two further occasions. That signalled complete defence from Shareef, the number four who had been a hero with the ball but was now a villain with the bat. Shouts from his own players in the pavilion could not force him into action and the game petered out into a draw, with him 47 not out. The Brentwood players marched from the field, scratching their heads and offering grateful handshakes to Shareef, who had ruined his own sides chances of victory.
Amidst this unusual climax, it should not be forgotten that Whitehall and Haste bowled 23 overs a piece and were quite magnificent. Along with Morgan, they were the major plus points from this game that Brentwood must take to next weeks visit of Billericay.
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UPMINSTER 2nd XI 202-7
BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 183-7
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
Following last weekend's washout, Brentwood skipper Stuart Townson was relieved to win the toss in beautiful conditions and invited Upminster to bat, with the intent of pushing hard for the win, batting in the second innings. Brentwood's opening attack of Perry Lawless and James Smith bowled tightly with the new ball restricting the Upminster openers to 25 off the first dozen overs. However the inability to take early wickets allowed the batsmen to take advantage of some loose bowling from Nigel McKay on his 2nd XI debut in progressing to 77 without loss. Once Off Spinner Dickie Wall had broken the opening partnership by bowling S Mayes and Steve Morritt had removed the other opener N O'Dell Snr, with a smart run out, Upminster found runs more difficult to come by as Wall and skipper Townson bowled through to the close of the innings, returning figures of three-45 and three-60 respectively.
Brentwood initially looked like overhauling Upminster's total of 202-7 with ease. Following the early loss of opener Morritt, Paul Larner and David Smith compiled a second wicket stand of 79, before Smith was out with the score on 91. Both batsmen, displaying their best form of the season, looked comfortable against the new ball attack of Curtis and N O'Dell Jnr. This being particularly pleasing for 16 year old Smith who has quickly adjusted to the rigours of 2nd XI cricket having spent the vast majority of last season in the 4th team. From this platform Brentwood should have won comfortably, however, the inability of any of Brentwood's middle order batsmen to provide sustained support to Larner's innings of 69, ensured that Brentwood ended up 19 runs short of the target.
Unfortunately, not for the first time this season, a lacklustre batting display with only Larner and Dave Smith being exempt from criticism, ensured that a good bowling and fielding performance was not converted into a victory. This inability to bat as a unit needs to be addressed quickly if Brentwood are to pull themselves clear of the bottom positions.
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BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 204 All Out
WICKFORD 3rd XI 208-2
Brentwood lost by 8 wickets
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
The Captain's poor run with the toss was to continue and Brentwood were asked to bat first, with on paper once again a strong batting line up. With a short, fast outfield, Ken Lingwood felt his team would require posting a score in excess of 250 runs. However, this was not to be despite the excellent efforts of Barry Brooks, who scored 120 out of a meagre total of 204 all out in 50 overs. To put the Brooks effort into perspective the second highest score was 19 extras!
In reply, Wickford tore into the Brentwood attack, weakened by availability problems. Runs were scored at will. Brentwood took a couple of token wickets, but were helpless in stemming the steady flow of runs. Brentwood's total was overhauled with three overs remaining. Brentwood was well beaten by a Wickford team who were superior in all departments on the day.
Along with the other Captains of Brentwood, Lingwood must be hoping the a much greater degree of commitment is demonstrated by our playing members, in terms of attendance at training and availability on Saturdays.
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BRENTWOOD 4th XI 158-9
UPMINSTER 4th XI 159-9
Brentwood lost by one wicket
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
A real nail-biter this one as the fourths lost for the first time this season, by the smallest of margins. Their total, although modest, was hard fought with no one making a single large contribution. The decision was taken to declare the innings, keeping the four bonus points safe and try to dismiss their opponents.
They came mighty close, as Rob Coote bowled superbly to record five for 32. It was to be of no avail however, as Upminster kept their nerve and passed
the total with the last pair at the wicket to gain the victory and eighteen points.
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BRENTWOOD 5th XI 243-5
OLD PARKONIANS 4th XI 132 All Out
Brentwood won by 111 runs
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
Brentwood found themselves asked to bat first and made full use of the opportunity. James Coulson was the star of the show, scoring 68 not out, his first half-century for the Club. He finished of the good work of Tony Dann (42) and Ash Patel (68) who put on 99 for the third wicket.
This total proved to be far too many for Parks, who lost wickets regularly to some fine bowling and fielding. Patel contributed with the ball too, recording three for 39. He was supported by Haran, two for 44 and Suman, Manterfield and Jones, each taking a wicket.
A resounding victory for the fifths, seeing them add to last weeks win and continue to move up the league.
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BRENTWOOD 6th XI 154-7
STANFORD-LE-HOPE 4th XI 155-5
Brentwood lost by 5 wickets
(Friendly)
Brentwood had a good start from openers Dan Fryd and Michael Sheehan before Fryd was out for 11. Andrew Parish then joined Sheehan and they put on 48 for the second wicket, Sheehan making 37 and Parish 38. A good 8th wicket partnership between James Ruggles and Phil Crook enabled a declaration with the score on 154.
Stanford-le-Hope had Danny Taylor to thank for their victory. He made 88 as the visitors won with some overs to spare. Brentwood's wicket takers were Deni Mistry two for 19, Andrew Thorpe-Apps one for 13 and Rohan Sivapalan one for 16.
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30th June
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 177-8
BILLERICAY 1st XI 181-1
Brentwood lost by 9 wickets
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
Brentwood's solitary league win this season came against their visitors and so they knew that revenge was going to be sought by the current league leaders.
Skipper Nigel Porter was happy to win the toss again this week, but as with last week, a woefully depleted side prevented him from being positive and inserting Billericay and instead forced him to bat, to see if he could gain maximum batting points at least from the game.
The opening salvo from DiMichiel and Brandy was hostile and they soon got the breakthroughs. David Morgan, fresh from his excellent 80, opening for the first time last week, saw his off stump cartwheel out of the ground at the hands of DiMichiel and his opening partner Matt Sutherland soon followed, offering a straight forward edge to the keeper off the same bowler. Stuart Fomes and Gary Jones set about trying to repair the early damage against the still very new ball. Fomes looked uncomfortable against the pace of Brandy and although managing to carve some boundaries when offered width, was hit a painful blow on the foot. Obviously in considerable discomfort, he called for a runner but was dismissed the next ball for 21. Jones kept up the fight, but soon lost his new partner Steve Taylor for a duck. When he himself departed for a brave 43, Brentwood had slumped to 94 for five and were looking down the barrel.
Refreshingly, there was considerable resistance offered by the late middle order against the far less threatening change bowlers. Nick Haste hit some fine cover drives and James Smith performed particularly well, having been called up into the side at the last minute. Smith played with confidence, hitting an excellent pull shot for four and a fine straight drive with a similar result. He was last to go having reached a creditable 31 and enabling Brentwood to reach 177-8 at the conclusion of their innings.
If Billericay had appeared to dominate with the ball, then their batting seemed leagues apart. The openers Paul Southgate and John Walford looked in no trouble at all right form the start and demonstrated just how good a pitch was available. Boundaries flowed, with none of Brentwood's bowlers making any impression. Southgate was the only man to lose his wicket, caught by Jones off Porter's bowling but by then the result was a foregone conclusion Walford richly deserved to reach his hundred after a sublimely timed innings but he was unfortunately left four short on 96 not out when the winning run was struck.
This was a severe beating for Brentwood, whose lowly position in the league is now of great concern. The lack of commitment of some and injuries have conspired to undermine the team's performances and measures are being taken to strengthen the team for next season. Even at this stage of this season, Brentwood would welcome any individual of first team calibre who would wish to join the club and who's performances would do justice to the excellent facilities available.
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BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 153 all out
SHENFIELD 2nd XI 154-5
Brentwood lost by 5 wickets
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
Poor availability in the top two teams meant that the 2nd XI fielded a weakened side, for the return fixture with near neighbours Shenfield. On winning the toss the Shenfield captain had no hesitation in asking Brentwood to bat on a green looking wicket, the tiny boundaries on two sides making the Courage playing field an ideal ground for a run chase.
This decision was vindicated with Brentwood being bowled out for 153, a score that was at least 70 too few on the small ground. Quick wickets, an all too familiar story this season, meant that Shenfield were into the middle order with the ball less than 10 over old and when Ken Lingwood, elevated from his position as 3rd XI skipper was fourth man out Brentwood were facing the prospect of being bowled out for an embarrassingly low score. This threat was alleviated by Dwight Johnson, available following school cricket and Mark Donkin, called up from the 3rd XI due to a last minute cry off, who took the score over the hundred mark without further loss. Once these two were out in successive overs the innings subsided to 121 - 9 with a series of injudicious shots accounting for the Brentwood lower order. Only a last wicket stand of 32, between Dean Goddard and Perry Lawless ensured that Brentwood gave their bowlers some runs to defend.
This total was always likely to be inadequate, but to have a chance Brentwood needed to return the favour and take early wickets. Following the run out of opener Tredget, this proved beyond them, with Castell and Jones knocking off half the runs before the next wicket fell. Perry Lawless, followed up his valuable contribution with the bat by bowling a tight line and length. As he has done all season, he repeatedly troubled the batsmen but for no reward, with false shots always seeming to allude the grasp of a fielder. With plenty of wickets in hand Shenfield reached the target with 3 overs to spare, Castell carrying his bat for 62.
Again, Brentwood's brittle batting ensured that the bowlers would have to perform miracles to get anything out of the game. Whilst the current poor availability at the top end of the club, does not help the 2nd XI in their current plight, it does not excuse the lack of application shown last Saturday by the Brentwood batting. Unless this is rectified immediately and competitive totals are posted, relegation to division two will be an inevitable consequence.
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BILLERICAY 3rd XI 102 all out
BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 103-3
Brentwood won by 7 wickets
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
There is always some good news for Brentwood when you get down to the third eleven and this week was to be no exception. Although regular skipper, Ken Lingwood was required to fill in the seconds, along with two others from his usual line up, Jason Swan was going to fill in, in fine style.
Winning the toss was the best possible start for Swan and he asked the hosts to bat first. Rob Brett immediately struck, removing opener Jackman and the wickets continued to fall from that point on at regular intervals. Darren Clements bowled superbly, claiming two for 24 of his 13 overs in his opening spell and the good work was continued by the change bowlers. Tony Prior demonstrated his usual tight line in claiming three for 26 and Nigel Mackay pipped them all by taking four for 33. The bowlers received excellent support from their fielders, notably Jim Lingwood who took an athletic catch at slip.
The Brentwood chase got off to a stuttering start, losing Barry Brooks in the first over but there was no need for panic. The club's top run scorer of the season so far, Shane Surujbally joined his skipper at the crease and the pair put on a match clinching stand of 75. Surujbally went for 42 but Swan remained undefeated on 54 and had the happy duty of hitting the winning run.
The thirds then continue their assault on the league, even without their skipper and look in fairly safe in Swan's hands.
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BILLERICAY 4th XI 250-5
BRENTWOOD 4th XI 222-8
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
A veritable run feast at Billericay with both teams able to claim that they came close to recording a victory. Winning the toss, Brentwood chose to field and found themselves on the receiving end of a barrage from B. Jowett. Jowett carried the batting in recording a huge 141 not out and enabled his side to declare after 49 overs on a daunting 250-5.
Brentwood set about the chase in fine style, Neil Webb scoring 40, Tony Jones 69 and Alan Houston 57. At one stage they had reached 194-4 with eight overs left and may have fancied their chances of an unlikely victory. However, Billericay broke through and nearly sneaked the win, with Brentwood finishing on 222-8 off 37 overs.
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BRENTWOOD 5th XI 202-7
ILFORD 4th XI 201-7
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
Brentwood set a formidable target for a young Ilford side, with Adrian Smith scoring a quick-fire 50 after a steady 72 partnership between James Coulson and Steve Manterfield.
Ilford's reply was to chase the runs all the way and can feel unlikely not to have recorded an unlikely win. The game went to the very last delivery, with four needed only two were managed and the honours were even.
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OLD BRENTWOODS U-13 46 all out
BRENTWOOD U-13 47-5
Brentwood won by 5 wickets
A comfortable win for Brentwood based on a fine bowling display and one exceptional piece of fielding. Wicketkeeper Chris Edkins could be applauded for saving a certain 4 leg byes with a diving stop to his left, but he wasn't finished there. Glove removed, he transferred the ball to his right hand and through down the stumps, effecting a quite superb run out that had all the watching parents applauding.
The old boy's target was then easily surpassed by Brentwood in recording an easy win.
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7th July
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 126 all out
WODFORD WELLS 1st XI 128-5
Brentwood lost by 5 wickets
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
It was very much the case of the same old story for Brentwood with key players still missing, so they knew their game against Woodford Wells would be difficult. Captain Nigel Porter lost the toss and Brentwood batted first. This made Brentwood's task even more challenging, as they were forced to bat on a damp wicket at a time when there was substantial cloud cover.
Chris Boon and David Morgan opened the batting for Brentwood. Morgan was soon out, bowled when looking to drive. Australian Matthew Sutherland joined Boon at the crease and the two batted sensibly together against a new ball that was moving prodigiously. Boon showed excellent determination; while at the other end Sutherland showed evidence of his talent with a number of pleasing off-drives. The two took the total past fifty before Sutherland was out lbw for 26. Brentwood's middle order collapsed quickly with Gary Jones, Steve Taylor and Nicholas Haste all departing without significantly adding to the score. Only Boon with a score of 42 contributed a reasonably high individual score, before he was out caught behind. The Brentwood tail added some late runs, notably Ian Belchamber, Paul Larner and Richard Whitehall. However when Whitehall chipped a catch to mid-wicket the innings was over. Brentwood had scored 126 and had used only 48 of their allotted 52 overs.
Although they were disappointed with their batting display, Brentwood still felt that the combination of their strong bowling attack and a difficult wicket meant they still had a chance to win the game. Their confidence rose further when the Wells opening batsman tried to take a single to Porter at gully. They had clearly chosen the wrong fielder, as Porter swooped on the ball and completed the run-out. Brentwood's opening bowlers Richard Whitehall and Nick Haste began to bowl tightly and the Wells batsmen found runs difficult to come by. Number 3 batsman Leiper hit 43 out of a partnership of 52, which was scored in 15 overs. He was eventually out trying to slog a slower ball from Whitehall, which was excellently caught by Jones at mid-on. The run rate had risen to 4 an over with 15 overs to go and with Haste and Whitehall bowling well Brentwood now had a decent chance. Haste picked up a couple of wickets as reward for his good bowling, but the batsmen continued to score a boundary every over off both bowlers and their task became easier. With a couple of big shots the Wells hit the winning runs with 2 overs to spare.
Once again a lack of runs had cost Brentwood dear and they slipped to bottom of the Division 1 table. They had bowled and fielded well, as they have done for most of the season and are still confident that with some improvement in their batting they will avoid relegation.
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HORNDON ON THE HILL 2nd XI 241-4
BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 202-7
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
This match featured two sides struggling for form this season, both occupying lowly spots in the first division. On winning the toss, the Horndon skipper chose to bat first, obviously already thinking of gaining maximum batting points and leaving the game with more points than his opposing captain. This thought process was to make itself even more apparent as the game progressed.
Brentwood's opening bowlers performed well, Joe Fryd taking a wicket with his very first delivery. When his partner, Perry Lawless captured the number three in the fifth over, only ten runs had been scored and Brentwood had grasped the early initiative. From here however the game changed. Horndon skipper, Ridley, played positively from the start and when he was joined by Stitson, the initial dominance of the bowlers was well and truly broken. Runs came freely and no change in the attack made any impression. Stitson was the fourth wicket to fall, just seven short of his hundred but by now Horndon had scored 230. Ridley carried on, even though it was five minutes to five and the score was already one that could have been easily defended. Reaching his century, the skipper finally declared the innings on 241.
Brentwood calculated that they needed roughly seven an over to record an unlikely victory, but it was a target that they had to attempt. Stuart Fomes' opening partner David Smith fell early, a bizarre dismissal with the ball ballooning upwards after striking the back of his bat. Fomes himself was inconvenienced by a badly bruised foot that meant that he and his new partner Dwight Johnson were unable to make quick singles or indeed run two's out to the boundary. They did however manage to score at the required rate, both hitting the wayward bowling for boundaries. Their partnership of 103 could have been much more but for the injury, but at least Brentwood were well in the hunt. Johnson left just after reaching his well-deserved fifty but unfortunately, skipper Stuart Townson followed him straight away. Fomes was finally dismissed and limped from the field having made 64 and at this point the game was all but over. The middle order couldn't keep to the asking rate and the game petered out to a draw with Horndon having insufficient overs left to try to push for a victory themselves.
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UP THE SWANNY WITHOUT A PADDLE! (FUNNY STORY)
BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 226-
WOODFORD WELLS 3rd XI 158-7
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
Stand in skipper Jason Swan hoped to continue his excellent start as captain by recording another victory. He was to make the most notably contribution to the game but in a way no one could have expected.
Losing the toss was his first error and batting first was the penalty. His openers did him proud though, with Barry Brooks making 22 and Shane Surujbally carrying on his fantastic season by bludgeoning 61. Swan then took it upon himself to tinker with the batting line up and promote himself up the order. Amidst the confusion, he remembered his gloves and helmet but made it all the way to the middle without his bat! Raucous laughter echoed round the ground as he scampered back, even the first team match on the adjacent field stopped to add to his embarrassment!
When the laughter died down, Brentwood had amassed 226 in their 52 overs and set about trying to bowl the Wells out. Darren Clements and Rob Brett made the early breakthroughs but Brentwood couldn't hammer home the advantage and force the win. A slightly earlier declaration may have been needed but at least the game gleaned the thirds 11 points and their challenge for the title is in good shape. For Swan, his exploits may be remembered for a bit longer than he may hope!
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SOUTHEND 4th XI 85 all out
BRENTWOOD 4th XI 86-2
Brentwood won by 8 wickets
(Shepherd Neame Premier Division)
Brentwood cemented their position as league leaders with an emphatic victory over lowly Southend. They can owe their easy win to the Webb brothers, Neil who recorded two for 25 and Paul who recorded two for 26. Paul can also claim the fifth victim from an excellent run out from a direct hit. With the top order gone, the tail offered even less resistance and the innings concluded on just 85.
Light work was made of the meagre target, opener Tony Jones guiding the team to victory with 45 not out, with only thirteen overs required.
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BRENTWOOD 5th XI 209-8
HORNCHURCH 4th XI 206-7
Match drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
A real nail biter this, as league leading Hornchurch narrowly failed to over haul Brentwood's impressive target. Steve Manterfield and James Coulson had led the way for Brentwood, scoring 55 and 27 respectively and later, Danny Latham made 40 not out, the first half of a fine all round performance. The wicket hadn't been the easiest to bat on and Brentwood probably felt they were favourites to win the match. Hornchurch however came out all guns blazing and had it not been for Latham returning excellent figures of five for 34, then they would have sealed a fine victory. Ash Patel bowled well at the end for Brentwood and this left Hornchurch tantalisingly just three runs short.
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8th July
ARDLEIGH GREEN 216-7
BRENTWOOD 217-9
Brentwood won by one wicket
(IBEX Sunday Premier League)
This proved to be an exciting game that at 1.30 never looked like happening. It was fortunate that the rain stopped in time for a prompt start with no need to shorten the allocated overs.
Ardleigh Green won the toss and decided to bat and Ian Gibbs got them off to the best of starts by smashing the first ball for four. This set the tone for the innings, with plenty of positive batting for Gibbs, his opening partner David Lock and Roy Smith. Smith timed the ball exquisitely on the damp pitch, on his way to 60 and Lock fell just seven short of what would have been a well-deserved century and just three balls short of batting through the innings. Making use of their 45 overs, Ardleigh Green's total of 216 was always going to be competitive with the still wet outfield.
Brentwood started well enough, managing to keep wickets in tact but the run rate was always increasing. Ian Belchamber demonstrated his sound technique in driving and cutting his way to 50 and at the other end Matt Sutherland played expansively, making 74. Sutherland had helped keep the rate up but when he departed, Brentwood still need 76 off the last 13 overs. There then followed a significant cameo from Ken Lingwood, blasting 18 off just 9 deliveries, including two sixes and a similar effort from Stuart Townson. Wickets were tumbling however and it was left to the last pair to make five from the last over.
Ash Patel decided to end the suspense quickly by hammering a four off the first ball and then calmly pushing a single. Brentwood had recorded the narrowest of victories and consolidated their mid table position.
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14th July
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 170-9 declared
WESTCLIFF 1st XI 171-5
Brentwood lost by 5 wickets (SHEPHERD NEAME LEAGUE DIVISION 1)
With heavy showers on the morning of the match, Brentwood 1st XI were fortunate to be able to start and complete their game on Saturday. It gave them the opportunity to gain ground on a number of the sides above them in the table.
Once again the toss did not favour Brentwood. Westcliff won the toss and invited Brentwood to bat on a wet wicket, which was bound to improve as it dried out during the day. Openers Chris Boon and David Morgan started solidly adding 50 for the first wicket in 19 overs. They batted diligently as the new ball moved around considerably. Morgan was the first out when hitting a full toss straight to mid-on having scored 23. Unfortunately Danny Hazle and Matt Sutherland followed in quick succession, to leave Brentwood struggling at 72-3. Worse was to follow when Boon, who had scored a composed 41, was caught in the covers when trying to increase the scoring rate. Number 6 Steve Taylor was also out for a low score, which brought together Gary Jones and James Smith. These two batsmen played sensibly, mixing aggressive attacking strokes with watchful defence. The score moved to 148 before Smith was out for 27. Brentwood now eyed 175 as their target to gain 6 batting points. But the tail-enders failed to provide adequate support to Jones and the innings petered out with the total on 170.
Due to the late start of the match, Westcliff had only 28 overs in which to chase this total. They got off to a quick start with both openers punishing any bad bowling from Brentwood openers Richard Whitehall and James Smith. Smith took the wicket of Green, when Paul Larner caught him at extra-cover. However Brentwood dropped a couple of catches and continued to bowl too many bad balls. Westcliff batted confidently and were always scoring at the required rate. The introduction of Matt Sutherland into the bowling attack gave Brentwood some hope. He took two wickets and slowed down the Westcliff scoring rate. However John Pratt hit an undefeated 36 to see Westcliff to their target with five balls to spare.
This was a game Brentwood should not have lost. They were let down by poor bowling and fielding which had previously been their strength. Although due to the bad weather, few games in the division ended in results and therefore Brentwood have lost little ground in their fight to stay in Division 1.
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BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 207-5
WESTCLIFF 2nd XI 208-3
Brentwood lost by 7 wickets
(SHEPHERD NEAME LEAGUE DIVISION 1)
The plot of this game very much mirrored that of the first team game with Brentwood batting first and leaving their opponents 28 overs to bat in reply. The seconds batted well in gaining the maximum batting points, the key objective in this game. Stuart Fomes and Stephen Morritt started positively and their good start was continued by Skipper Stuart Townson and Phil Howlett. The main contributor to the score however was Mark Donkin, who hit an unbeaten 55 and reached the milestone with a six off the last ball of the 43rd over.
The target set seemed daunting but the dampness of the wicket had strangely been to the batsmen's advantage, with the ball sitting up to be hit all through Brentwood's innings. It was much the same story with the chase and although Joe Fryd bowled extremely well at the start, he had little support form his partners or indeed the fielders. Opener John Waddington was hitting the ball well but when he was dropped on three occasions, the writing was then on the wall. The target was reached with an over to spare, with Brentwood's fielding letting them down at the finish.
The positive from this game was that Brentwood earned 9 points, which was more than could have been hoped as the rain poured down at two o'clock.
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21st July
Old Southendians 1st XI 222-3 declared
Brentwood 1st XI 219-8
Match Drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
With Essex playing at Southchurch Park on Saturday, Brentwood's 1st XI fixture against Old Southendians was switched to the auspicious surroundings of the County Ground Chelmsford. Indeed Brentwood's fortunes have mirrored that of the County's this season with both sides being bottom of their respective divisions going into their most recent games.
Once again Brentwood lost the toss, although with Old Southendians deciding to bat first, Brentwood felt this gave them an excellent opportunity to gain a victory to help their relegation fight. Tight bowling from Richard Whitehall and James Smith ensured that the opposition batsmen had difficulty scoring runs early in their innings. Indeed after 15 overs Old Southendians had only scored 42 runs and although no wickets had been taken both bowlers had bowled with considerable credit. Captain Nigel Porter made a double change of bowling, bringing on himself and fellow spinner Matt Sutherland. Both also bowled well and were complemented by good fielding from the rest of the side. The spinners picked up a wicket each, including South African batsman Blackmore who was caught by Stuart Fomes off the bowling of Sutherland for 57. With the run-rate still relatively slow, Old Southendians were forced to play more extravagant shots. Number 3 batsman Des Beckett was particularly aggressive hitting a couple of large sixes. His captain Bunce joined him and between them they rode their luck to score at 8 an over in the last ten overs. The big hitting took Old Southendians to 222 in their 52 overs before they declared.
Brentwood felt that this total, although higher than they hoped to chase, was well within their reach on what was a good batting wicket. However their innings started badly, losing 3 wickets in the first 10 overs for only 27 runs. This left Sutherland and Donkin at the crease having to rescue the innings. The two batted sensibly combining watchful defence with some impressive attacking shots. Sutherland was eventually out caught-behind for 42. When the last 20 overs started, Brentwood still needed 145 runs. Donkin and Paul Larner continued the chase adding 35 and 20 runs respectively. This brought James Smith and Richard Whitehall to the wicket, with 90 runs required off only 10 overs. Both batsmen played many aggressive strokes to keep Brentwood in the match. They had added 76 runs for the 7th wicket, by the time the last over started with 13 runs still required for victory. Whitehall hit the first ball towards the cover boundary and looked to complete two runs. However he was adjudged run out having scored a quick-fire 28. This bought Jo Fryd to the wicket who along with Smith tried valiantly to reach the target, which was now nearly 3 runs per ball. However they finished 3 runs short on 219-8. Smith having scored an excellent 54 not out.
This was an impressive fighting performance from Brentwood. They need to show the same determination in the upcoming weeks, when they should also be able to select from a full squad. It is imperative that victories are forthcoming in the next few games if relegation is to be avoided, starting with next week's visit of Orsett.
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Brentwood 2nd XI 201-8 declared
Walthamstow 2nd XI 194-7
Match Drawn
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
With Walthamstow's strong batting carrying them to second place in the league, Brentwood skipper Stuart Townson was not surprised when his Walthamstow counterpart won the toss and chose to bowl first, aiming to chase and surpass the Brentwood total.
With Brentwood openers Steve Morritt and Phil Howlett taking advantage of some wayward opening bowling it looked as if Walthamstow may be chasing a formidable total. When Howlett and skipper Townson were out in quick succession to soft dismissals, leaving Brentwood on 84-2 Morritt continued to bat positively but was eventually out for a well made 57. With Ken Lingwood playing the anchor role and Shane Surujbally batting in his normal belligerent style Brentwood still looked set for a large total as the 150 was brought up with 12 overs of the allotted 52 left. However, once Surujbally was dismissed the run rate dropped considerably with the middle and lower order unable to maintain the early dominance of bat over ball. A tight spell of bowling form Burnage ensured that Brentwood only secured maximum batting points when Perry Lawless struck the penultimate delivery to the boundary.
201-8 was 25 runs short of the total that should have been posted, but good use of the new ball from the experienced combination of Lawless and Ash Patel ensured that Walthamstow were put under pressure from the outset. Following an early wicket Harris and Norris batted positively, taking the score to 94 before Patel removed the former. Whilst Norris remained at the wicket, taking advantage of a couple of spilled catches, his ability to strike the ball cleanly and extremely hard threatened Brentwood's total but once off-spinner Dickie Wall had him caught by wicketkeeper James Reilly, Walthamstow were always going to struggle to maintain the run rate. Johnson and Coster continued to bat positively, but the pressure exerted by Wall's excellent spell of 4-58 and the introduction of Townson to the attack, meant that wickets began to fall regularly and Walthamstow finished seven short of the target.
The recent rise in Brentwood's fortunes can be attributed to the new found solidity in the batting line up, this being the third consecutive week that a score of 200 plus has been posted. As well as securing maximum batting bonus points this also ensures that the opposition are under pressure to score quickly, therefore offering more opportunities to take wickets. Had this batting form been demonstrated from the start of the season then Brentwood may have been challenging for promotion, but if it continues then it will ensure that any thoughts of relegation can be banished.
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Walthamstow 3rd XI 177-5
Brentwood 3rd XI 154-8
Match drawn
(Shepherd NeamePremier League)
Saturday proved to be a disappointing day for the thirds after having won the toss and sending in their opponents hoping to gain maximum points and keep their league winning hopes well and truly alive. Opening bowlers Darren Clements and Rob Brett both started well, taking early wickets and putting pressure on the batsmen. The wickets dried up however, which enabled Walthamstow to reach a respectable 177 for 5 in their 52 overs. Unusually, it was the thirds batting that let them down, with all of the top five failing and leaving Brentwood reeling on 55 for 5. Then came Nigel Mackay, hitting out in his usual style and almost single handedly taking his side to an unlikely win. When he departed for 66 though the game was beyond them and shutting up shop was the only option, the game finishing in a draw.
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Walthamstow 4th XI 142 all out
Brentwood 4th XI 143-3
Brentwood won by 7 wickets
(Shepherd Neame Premier League)
Brentwood's youth policy paid dividends against their third placed opposition as they won a handsome victory. The visitors had won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision they were to regret as the excellent bowling of 18-year-old Adrian Smith saw him collect five for 44. He was well supported by 14 year-old wicketkeeper Chris Dann who claimed two excellent catches behind the stumps.
Brentwood made light work of polishing of the meager total, with the most credit going to 16 year-old Danny Latham, who struck an impressive 29 not out to finally clinch the victory.
The fourths remain top of the division and starting to open a gap. They certainly look the team to catch in the premier league at their first attempt.
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Brentwood 5th XI 91 all out
Fives and Heronians 4th XI 68 all out
Brentwood won by 23 runs
(Shepherd Neame First Division)
Another impressive victory for the fifths in their first season of league cricket competing in the fourth team division one. A win had looked most unlikely at the halfway stage however, as Brentwood had capitulated for just 91. Old hand Ken Hobbs had held his young side together with a belligerent 39 and he only had support for Roger Mahadeo whom scraped into double figures with 11.
The bowlers were the stars of the show, defending their total with some aplomb. Dave Barbone got off to a good start, recording two for 22, then Simon Manterfield and Kevin Bradford provided the icing on a very sweet cake by taking four for 8 and three for 9. the win was sealed by a superb run our by Suman, capping off a terrific all-round display.
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28th July
ORSETT 1st XI 177-7 declared
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 179-7
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Brentwood won by 3 wickets
Brentwood entered this game bottom of Division 1. However, they were able to field a near full-strength side, with influential players Danny Hazle, Micky Davis, Gary Jones and Nick Haste all returning to the team. They knew that a win was needed to kick-start their relegation battle. Skipper Nigel Porter won the toss and with a victory in mind, elected to field.
The Brentwood opening bowlers, Richard Whitehall and Haste made use of the new ball and a hard, quick wicket, bowling well in the first few overs. Whitehall removed stand-in opener Darren Polybank when the score was on only 17. After 10 overs with the score on 30-1, Porter made a double change bringing on himself and fellow spinner Matthew Sutherland. The two were to bowl unchanged for the rest of the innings. Both bowled with excellent accuracy and extracted considerable turn from the pitch. The Orsett run-rate continued at only around three per over as they regularly lost wickets. Superb fielding in uncomfortably hot conditions supported the bowlers. Chris Boon took an excellent catch to dismiss South African batsmen Katz off the bowling of Sutherland. Only Orsett captain Paul Shaw showed any resilience, scoring 41 before he was trapped lbw by Sutherland. In the last ten overs, Orsett played more expansively before declaring their innings on 177. Porter finished with the excellent figures of three for 60, Sutherland taking three for 81.
With a fast outfield and the wicket seeming to favour batsmen, Brentwood was confident of achieving victory. The innings started well with Boon and Paul Larner batting positively and hitting a number of boundaries and the target was soon below 100. However both batsmen were dismissed caught in the covers, Larner was second out, having scored a pleasing 35. Brentwood now suffered a middle-order collapse. Five more wickets were lost with the addition of only 30 runs. Only Brentwood number 3 Danny Hazle retained his wicket, scoring 20 runs as wickets fell at the other end. Richard Whitehall came to the crease to partner Hazle needing 69 runs for victory with only 12 overs and 3 wickets left. Whitehall took advantage of Orsetts tight field, by hitting a number of boundaries over the top of the in-field. However both batsmen showed they were always thinking of the run-rate taking singles at important times. With five overs to go, 27 runs were needed for victory. Again boundaries were scored, including Whitehall hitting a straight six and the victory looked assured. It was left to Hazle to hit the winning runs with a suitably classy cover driven four. He scored an excellent 47 not out and Whitehall finished 39 not out.
This victory took Brentwood off the bottom of the table, however they remain in the relegation zone. They must ensure they take confidence from this performance into their next few games. They have a crucial game against Chelmsford at home on Saturday.
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ARDLEIGH GREEN 2nd XI 213-7
BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 159-9
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Match Drawn
Following two good performances, Brentwood travelled to Ardleigh Green knowing this was a real opportunity to overtake their hosts and escape from the relegation zone. Their hopes of securing the much-needed win were enhanced when Green won the toss and choose to bat, deciding to avoid fielding in the stifling heat.
Joe Fryd gave the visitors the perfect start, taking a wicket in the very first over but from then on, the good batting conditions came to the fore. Number three, Newman made the most of them, scoring a quick-fire 75. For Brentwood, Perry Lawless and Richard Wall toiled away in the oppressive conditions and much can be owed to them that Green only made 213 for 7 in their 52 overs.
Brentwood's reply could not have started better, racing to 106 for none of the first 18 overs. Phil Howlett and Shane Surujbally batted superbly but as often happened both were out in quick succession. What followed was an England-style collapse, just 33 more scored for the loss of a further 7 wickets. It was up to James Reilly and Perry Lawless to hold out and deny Green their victory which would have seen even more daylight between the sides.
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BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 256-7
LOUGHTON 3rd XI 249-9
(SHEPHERD NEAME PREMIER DIVISION)
Match Drawn
This top of the table clash saw Brentwood in third place entertain the league leaders. Asked to bat first, Brentwood made full use of the excellent conditions to post a daunting total. Outstanding were the efforts of 14-year old Ollie Allen, who demonstrated all his potential while scoring 78. He was well supported by a half-century from Nigel Mackay and a quick-fire 46 from Dean Goddard. Brentwood was able to declare after 48 overs, setting the visitors 257 to win.
The Loughton openers started well, racing to 69 without loss, before Mike Hornsby pegged them back by taking three excellent wickets. As the game reached the final 20 overs, Loughton needed 137 for victory and were apparently cruising to their target. Enter the man of the match Nigel Mackay once more, who took 5 wickets for 47 runs to accompany his 54 with the bat. The game was left on a knife-edge in the last over, eight needed to win and two wickets in hand. Mackay took a wicket with the first ball and the Loughton skipper batting at number eleven, decided to settle for the draw rather than let Brentwood close the gap even further, and blocked the final five deliveries. Both sides showed their qualities in this 500 run-plus encounter, with Brentwood remaining hot on Loughton's heels.
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HUTTON 4th XI 184 all out
BRENTWOOD 4th XI 187-3
(SHEPHERD NEAME PREMIER DIVISION)
Brentwood won by 7 wickets
The league leaders kept rolling on after beating Hutton on Saturday. Hutton decided to bat first, having won the toss, which seemed a good decision as they raced to 50 for none off the first ten overs.
The introduction of A. Smith and A. Patel changed the course of the game however, with Smith claiming two victims and Patel four, while reducing the scoring rate considerably. From this point, Hutton limped to only 184 before being dismissed.
Brentwood has proved to be an excellent chasing side this season and didn't panic when a few early wickets fell. A 122 run partnership between Roger Mahadeo, who made 67 and skipper Alan Houston, who made 46, saw them home to a comfortable victory and maintaining their 18 point lead in the division.
The next three games for the fourths are against the teams in second third and fourth spots and so a continuation of this form may see them clinch the premier league title at the first time of asking.
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29th July
ETON MANOR 255-4
BRENTWOOD 256-2
(Sunday Premier League)
Brentwood won by 8 wickets
An excellent weekend for Brentwood's top flight was rounded off with a crushing victory in the Sunday premier league. Situated in fourth spot, Brentwood knew the next few weeks would pitch them against the three teams above them in the league and victories would be essential if the aspiration of winning the title is to be achieved. Eton Manor, occupied second spot before play began and demonstrated why with the bat, as they set about reaching their large total. The perfect wicket and lightning outfield helped them on their way and only the bowling of Joe Fryd and Matt Sutherland prevented them from reaching a huge target. Fryd opened tidily and took wickets at the death, recording three for 34, whereas Sutherland slowed the run rate in the middle of the innings, claiming the other wicket and conceding just 30. 255 was an impressive total nevertheless, coupled with the fact that the searing heat had no doubt drained the fielders who then had to chase the total with the bat.
Chris Boon was to illustrate this point, playing lethargically across a straight delivery with the score on just 10 and when skipper Paul Larner followed soon after, the game looked to be slipping away. 16 for two then when Matt Sutherland joined Stuart Fomes at the crease and the Australian dominated, as he had with the ball. Hitting hard, Sutherland was fed the strike by Fomes who was happy to push singles and soon the scoreboard started to rattle along. The pair got the score to 100, when the roles reversed and Fomes set about dismantling any of the Eton Manor bowlers brought into the attack. The run rate achieved soared to eight an over, with the visitors completely unable to do anything about it. Fomes reached his third century of the season, much to the delight of his team mates and victory was not long in coming after.
Just 31 of the 45 allotted overs were required for the emphatic win to be achieved, Fomes ending up on 123 and Sutherland 82, an unbeaten partnership of 239.
Brentwood leapfrogs Eton Manor in the league and may well be second to West Essex, if Benfleet lost on Sunday.
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BRENTWOOD LADIES 110-6
WESTCLIFF LADIES 112-2
(Friendly 25 over match)
A clear win for Westcliff Ladies and a clear win for the English summer. Batting first, Brentwood opened with the heat of the day against them. Lavinia Davis and Jane Harrington stuck out the heat for an 80 run partnership, then the first wicket fell in the 19th over, Harrington for 31, caught off Michelle. Michelle then continued to bowl an excellent over in which she took another 3 wickets, A Allen, P Webb and G McAlonan! It wasn't long until the next wicket went in the 21st over, V Castro run out. Davis was the next to go in the 25th over. Not before obtaining more runs with Shelly Branson, making her debut appearance for Brentwood. The pair got the score to 107 before Davis was run out on 41, with 4 balls remaining. Jenny Dowling finished with Branson to bring the final score to 110.
Battered, bruised and suffering from heat exhaustion, Brentwood went on to field! Lisa and Heather opened the batting for Westcliff to score 31 before Brentwood took their first wicket in the 8th over. Heather bowled by Jenny Dowling. In came Emily to tally up 104 until the next wicket was taken in the 18th over, Lisa bowled on 35 by Shelly Branson. Irene came in totally up the remaining runs needed for Westcliff to win, 112 runs reached in the 19th over. Emily not out on 36. A win for Westcliff with 5 overs remaining.
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4th August
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 93 all out
CHELMSFORD 1st XI 94-4
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Brentwood lost by 6 wickets
Following last weeks victory over Orsett, Brentwood approached Saturdays game in a confident mood. However, once again Brentwood were unable to name an unchanged side, with Paul Larner, Gary Jones, Nick Haste and James Smith all unavailable. Chelmsford won the toss and elected to bowl first on what looked to be a good wicket.
Brentwood started their innings well. Openers Chris Boon and Phil Howlett batted sensibly against the Chelmsford opening attack. They saw off the new ball and Chelmsford soon turned to their slower bowlers. The score was on 33 when Brentwood lost their first wicket when Howlett was out caught. Boon soon followed when he was caught and bowled by Chelmsford's off-spinner. Danny Hazle was next out, when adjudged lbw and a familiar Brentwood batting collapse was underway. Micky Davis, Mark Donkin and Steve Taylor also departed in quick succession, to leave Brentwood on 62-6. Matt Sutherland and David Morgan occupied the crease for a short while, with Sutherland waiting for bad balls to be bowled and ensuring that he scored off them. However Morgan was then caught by mid-off, before Richard Whitehall was clean bowled by Eddie Lawrence without scoring. Nigel Porter showed good determination in support of Sutherland who continued to score well. However with the score on 90 Porter was out lbw and Sutherland was last out to an excellent catch having scored 32. Brentwood finished with a paltry score of 93.
With what seemed to be a good wicket to bat on and a quick outfield it was obvious that the Brentwood total was at least 80 runs short of a decent score. Brentwood still showed good application in the field. Captain Porter was quick to get himself into the attack and he bowled in tandem with seamer Richard Whitehall. Porter achieved the breakthrough when Micky Davis at mid-wicket, caught one of the Chelmsford openers. Whitehall then dismissed the number 3, who was caught by David Morgan at the wicket having mis-timed a pull stroke. Porter picked up two further wickets to give Brentwood slim hope with Chelmsford on 60-4. However with only 30 runs required the batsman were able to play aggressively and hit a number of boundaries, reaching their target with a six.
This was a devastating loss for Brentwood, who picked-up just one point from the game against a side who were only two places above them going into the game. With five matches left, they still have a good chance to avoid relegation, but will need at least two or three victories if they are to secure another season in Division One.
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SAFFRON WALDEN 2nd XI 185-5 declared
BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 137-8
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Match drawn
Brentwood made the long journey to Saffron Walden with hopes of claiming a much needed victory in their quest to escape from the bottom two positions in the league. However, not only did they have to overcome the opposition, but also the adverse weather conditions and long traffic queues on the M11.
With skipper Stuart Townson caught in the roadworks, vice captain Stuart Fomes won the toss and elected to field. Tight bowling from Ian Moore and Perry Lawless ensured that Saffron Walden's progress was steady rather than spectacular with Moore making the initial breakthrough. This grip was maintained with change bowlers Townson and Dickie Wall restricting the runs to118 off 39 overs when the first rain break came. On resumption Malcolm Wright took advantage of some wayward bowling from Moore to push the total up to 185 before the declaration came, Wright himself finishing with an unbeaten 54.
Most sides would normally back themselves to chase 185 on the small ground, but with constant rain providing the home bowlers with a lively pitch, and reducing the length of the innings, Brentwood were always likely to struggle. The inclement weather also ensured that shots which were travelling to the boundary during the first innings were now stopping short, making quick scoring doubly difficult. Despite these adverse conditions Brentwood's batsmen assisted the home bowling by committing suicide on a regular basis. Five of the top six managed to gift their wickets to the opposition with a combination of loose shots and poor running, leaving Wall and Lawless to bat out the remaining overs for a draw. Wall displayed the application that was lacking from the top order to compile 40 not out.
Although the elements conspired against Brentwood, yet again frailty at the top of the batting order ensured that no progress was made in the bid to stave off relegation. Brentwood have to regroup quickly and ensure that next weeks performance against bottom side Hainault & Clayhall, sees a marked improvement or demotion to division 2 will soon be a formality.
3rds, 4ths and 5ths all badly rain affected
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5th August
DEUTSCHE BANK 155 all out
BRENTWOOD 159-4
Brentwood won by 6 wickets
Hats off to two of the players today, both of which have made a real impression on Brentwood's season. First mention should go to Shane Surujbally, the in-form player who has risen from the fourth team to the second team this season due to his excellent batting. Today saw him complete his 1000 runs for the season, made at an average of 53 and demonstrating the value of playing cricket both Saturday and Sunday, and training during the week. Shane's commitment has seen him score three centuries and many more fifties, all made in his exciting hard-hitting style.
The other player worthy of mention is 14 year-old Kerry Branson. New to the club this year, junior Kiwi Kerry has been a real find - both with bat and ball. It was his efforts on Sunday that secured the win for Brentwood, as he bamboozled the Deutsche bank batsmen with his accurate, spinning leg-breaks. Recording four for 27 off seven overs, the batsmen had no answer to him and capitulated for a score far too low on a reasonable wicket. Kerry was well supported by Joe Fryd, bowling with pace and colts Carl Manterfield and Rob Brett.
It was Surujbally and fellow opener Dwight Johnson sealed the game, scoring 39 and 34 respectively and when Richard Whitehall added 32 in a rare run-out up the order at three, it was just left to Matt Sutherland to hit a few boundaries to end the game well within the time limit.
Brentwood's Sunday side is performing well this year and next weeks return to Indivijewels league cricket sees them pushing hard for the Premier title.
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11th August
SOUTH WOODFORD 1st XI 199 all out
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 184 all out
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Brentwood lost by 15 runs
Following last week's loss to Chelmsford and with only five games left in the season, Brentwood entered this game knowing that they needed a victory to kick-start their relegation fight. This was going to be a difficult game against a South Woodford side that were third in the division despite having had 25 points deducted for ball tampering.
Brentwood captain Nigel Porter won the toss and with a victory in mind elected to field first. South Woodford attacked from the very first ball. Woodford opener Butt was particularly aggressive driving a number of straight boundaries. Richard Whitehall soon took the first wicket, when Gary Jones held on to a catch at mid-on. Nick Haste, the other opening bowler, also made an early breakthrough when Bobby Golding took a catch behind the wicket. However Butt and Akhtar continued to play expansively and rode their luck. With the score on 66-2 after only 11 overs, Porter made a double change, bringing on himself and Matthew Sutherland. Butt hit three fours in Porter's first over, but soon the scoring rate began to slow down. Both spinners bowled with excellent control and variety. As the pressure began to build on the batsman, so wickets fell. Porter disposed of both Butt and Akhtar, for 50 and 36 respectively. Slowly Brentwood managed to regain control of the match. Wickets continued to be taken at regular intervals, as good fielding backed the bowlers. Sutherland brought an end to the innings, when he trapped Neicho lbw first ball. He finished with figures of 4-58 off 19 overs, while Porter ended with 4-67.
Brentwood started their reply, knowing that the target of 200 was well within their reach. South Woodford decided to bowl with the old ball, opening with leg-spinner Akhtar and slow left arm bowler Neicho. Akhtar made an early breakthrough in the first over when he bowled Chris Boon for a duck. Shane Surujbally and Danny Hazle both batted well to add 50 runs for the 2nd wicket, before Neicho bowled Surujbally. Hazle had scored 42 when he was given out lbw off the bowling of Neicho. At this point, Brentwood's score stood at 76-3, with still 30 overs to go. However, for the third week in succession, they collapsed dramatically. Mark Donkin and Sutherland both departed without scoring, before Haste was caught at mid-wicket for 11. Gary Jones had scored a good 29, before he became another victim for Neicho. Brentwood had slumped to 104-7. Richard Whitehall and Dwight Johnson gave Brentwood hope with an enterprising eighth wicket partnership. Whitehall was out for 30 with the score on 149. Nigel Porter was clean bowled without scoring and as number 11 Bobby Golding came to the wicket Brentwood still required 50 runs. Johnson and Golding batted sensibly to take the score past 175 and claim a further batting point for Brentwood. An unlikely victory looked possible, with sixteen runs needed off the last 4 overs. However Golding was out bowled with Brentwood16 runs short of their target. Johnson having given evidence of his potential scoring 30.
This was a devastating blow to Brentwood as it was a total they should have chased successfully. They go into the last four games, knowing that they need 3 victories to ensure safety. These games are all against fellow relegation strugglers, starting with Ilford at home on Saturday.
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HAINAULT & CLAYHALL 2nd XI 158 all out
BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 159-2
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Brentwood won by 8 wickets
The seconds earned a much-needed win by dominating with both bat and ball in a bad tempered game. This clash between the bottom two sides was almost a relegation eliminator, with the defeated looking certain for the drop. Brentwood were able to muster the team effort to win the game, largely due to the efforts of Joe Fryd with the ball and Stuart Fomes with the bat. Fryd was outstanding, bowling with pace and swing while finding an excellent line and length. His three wickets in his first spell were all clean bowled, which tore the heart out of Hainault's effort and the good work was continued by Richard Wall and skipper, Stuart Townson. Fryd was recalled with two wickets needed to wrap up the innings. He obliged, the last being a regulation catch behind to the keeper, that saw Hainault's captain refuse to walk even after being adjudged out. At this point the tempers flared and the tensions continued into the Brentwood innings. As it turned out, there was little controversy or tension in the game left, as Brentwood breezed to their target. Losing Barry Brooks early at 35 for one, was the only chink in the Brentwood effort, as Fomes ripped into the Hainault attack. Supported well by Trevor Coote in a stand of 117, Fomes hit 6 sixes, including a final blow to end the contest with ten overs to spare and seeing him finish on 113 not out.
Other results went Brentwood's way this weekend and now four teams are involved in the race to avoid the drop with the now certainly doomed Hainault & Clayhall.
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BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 207-5
HAINAULT & CLAYHALL 3rd XI 208-4
(SHEPHERD NEAME PREMIER DIVISION)
Brentwood lost by 6 wickets.
Brentwood made the trip to Hainault's Clayhall Park knowing that only a win would keep them in touch with the league leaders and any realistic chance of winning the Premiership at the first attempt. Unfortunately however, once skipper Jason Swan had lost the side's 7th successive toss, securing the necessary 18 points was always going to be an uphill struggle. On a very one paced pitch, Brentwood kept up a healthy run rate of over five an over throughout their entire innings, with débutante M. Sandeep batting superbly for an impressive 84. Knowing how difficult bowling a side out on such a flat track was likely to be, Swan took the brave decision to declare before half past four on 207 having only received 40 of a possible 52 overs. In reply, Hainault made a steady start punishing any wayward bowling from Brentwood's seam attack. The home side's opening pair progressed easily to 100 without losing a wicket putting their side firmly in the driving seat at the beginning of the last 20 overs. Brentwood's Mike Hornsby (4-80) eventually made the breakthrough and rattled a few nerves in the batting sides dressing room by removing a further three top order batsmen as the required run rate edged up to 7 an over. However, after being put down early on by Brentwood's skipper, some strong hitting by D. Sam in the middle order saw Hainault home with just 3 balls to spare. Brentwood remain in the top four in the league after this defeat, but only 2 wins all season explains why the team aren't better placed as they enter the season's final furlong. With a little more luck on the flip of the coin, the league table might look substantially different.
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HAINAULT & CLAYHALL 4th XI 99 all out
BRENTWOOD 4th XI 100-3
(SHEPHERD NEAME PREMIER DIVISION)
Brentwood won by 7 wickets
The fourth's top place in the premier league was cemented further by this convincing win and they have opening bowler Paul Webb to thank. He bowled a magnificent 22 over spell to see him claim career-best figures of eight for 56, shattering any resistance offered by the hapless Hainault batsmen. Well supported by Rob Brett and Danny Latham, the trio wrapped up the innings for just 99, leaving the batsmen the simple task of rattling off the runs for the loss of just 3 wickets in 19 overs. Tony Jones and Alan Houston saw them home with knocks of 31 not out and 26 not out respectively.
Skipper Houston is now eyeing the premier league title, with just a few matches to go he is in pole position and knows a couple of wins should see a second consecutive title for the fourths.
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LOUGHTON 4th XI 200-4
BRENTWOOD 5th XI 179-8
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Match drawn
An exciting encounter this for the fifths containing eight colts, against the league leading fourth team of Loughton. The result could have been even better had Brentwood capitalized on reducing their hosts to 42-4. However, good middle order batting saw a total of 200 posted, which was always going to be a tough ask of the inexperienced side.
A good effort was made however, with both sides able to take credit for almost gaining victory, Brentwood 23 runs short and Loughton 2 wickets. Des Alford and James Coulson underpinned Brentwood's effort at the chase, both recording half centuries. The wickets tumbled a little too quickly though, and the draw was all that could be achieved.
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18th August
ILFORD 1st XI 156 all out
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 61-8
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Match Drawn
Before the start of Saturday's game, Brentwood 1st XI were bottom of Division 1 of the Essex League. With only four games to go in the season, every game was going to be of vital importance. Saturdays visitors to the Old County Ground were Ilford, who themselves were also in relegation trouble, adding even more significance to the match.
Ilford won the toss and elected to bat on a dry wicket with numerous cracks on the surface. Brentwood knew that the Ilford batsmen would attack right from the start of their innings and indeed this proved to be the case. Richard Whitehall took the first wicket of the day, when Nigel Porter held onto a catch in the gully. Diwan joined Kandola, Ilford's surviving opening batsman, at the crease. Both players continued to play positively and the scoring rate rose to around 4 an over. As in previous weeks Brentwood made a double change and brought on spinners Matthew Sutherland and Porter to take advantage of the turning wicket. Initially this had little effect, with both players continuing to hit boundaries. However, Sutherland enticed Kandolato try to hit him over the boundary and the breakthrough soon arrived. Following a couple of fortunate strokes, Kandola was caught by Whitehall at deep mid-wicket having scored 32. Wickets now began to fall regularly to both spinners and when Sutherland bowled Diwan for 54 it looked like Brentwood were through the Ilford batting. The score was 100-5 and Brentwood hoped to bowl Ilford out for around 125. Late resistance from youngster Whiting, who played with good aggression, took Ilford towards 150. When Porter claimed the final wicket thanks to a catch by Dwight Johnson, Ilford were all out for 156. Sutherland finished with bowling figures of 4-58 and Porter 4-55.
Brentwood had over 2 and half hours to chase this total, which should have been well within their reach. However, as in previous weeks their top order batting was not successful. Ilford opened with Malik and Kumar who soon made in-roads into the Brentwood batting. Opener Paul Larner and No.3 Danny Hazle were both caught by the wicket keeper. Chris Boon, Mark Donkin, Shane Surujbally and James Smith were all also out without making double figures and Brentwood had soon subsided to 24-6. Sutherland and keeper David Morgan batted for 45 minutes trying to recover a winning position. Morgan was eventually clean bowled for 14 shortly after Ilford had decided to take the new ball. However, the weather came to Brentwood's rescue. With the score on 61-8, the Umpires decided that the rain and bad light was now dangerous and took the players off the field. Shortly afterwards the game was abandoned.
Brentwood remains bottom of the division. They are 3 points behind Wickford and 18 points behind Old Southendians. They play both sides in the next two weeks and with two victories can still survive in Division 1. To do so they will have to bat with the same level of success that they have shown in the field over the last few games.
The game on Saturday was the first to see Brentwood' new electronic scoreboard in action, competently handled by Chris Stuart, the club's long standing scoring stalwart. All the members of the club wish to thank City Construction for generously donating this excellent addition to the excellent facilities.
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BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 217-9
UPMINSTER 2nd XI 40-4
(SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION)
Match Drawn
Scorecard
- link to the Upminster CC web site
Just as the first team, the seconds were in desperate need of a victory to pull clear of the relegation zone but just when a victory seemed to be beckoning, the weather intervened. A trip to promotion chasing Upminster guaranteed that both sides would be looking for a win, albeit for differing reasons and it was no surprise when Stuart Townson was asked to bat having called incorrectly.
The mood was positive in the dressing room after the previous week's fine win and it spilled over onto the pitch with openers Barry Brooks and Stuart Fomes taking the attack to the bowlers. A poor, green wicket couldn't prevent them from scoring freely and the first ten overs gleaned 58 runs. Brooks departed but Fomes carried on his form from last week, scoring 53. The middle order batted sensibly, in a fashion that had it been repeated through the season, this predicament would not be facing them. A small panic at the end saw nine runs needed by the last pair to reach 200, but Richard Wall was equal to the task and took the score up to 217 in the 52 overs.
The dark clouds loomed as Upminster set about the chase and they were never allowed to settle thanks to an excellent burst from Ian Moore, who claimed three wickets in his fiery spell.
The heavens were to open just seven overs before Brentwood were entitled to the bonus points they richly deserved, turning Upminster park into a lake. This result helped neither side, with the only consolation for Brentwood being that their nearest strugglers all suffered the same fate.
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BRENTWOOD 3rd XI 203-7
WICKFORD 3rd XI 100-7
Match Drawn
Continually losing the toss has thwarted Brentwood's title aspirations this year and the weather was to add to their woes on Saturday.
Asked to bat first Brentwood compiled a good score, enabling them to declare after 47 overs. The stars with the bat were David Smith who made 41 and Dean Goddard who blasted 63. The positive cricket was to go un-rewarded however, as the bowlers couldn't take the wickets quick enough before the rain became too heavy to continue, with Wickford all but beaten on 100-7.
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27th August
HUTTON 67 for 8
BRENTWOOD 68 for 5
CENTRAL ESSEX UNDER 11 DISTRICT CUP FINAL
Brentwood won by 5 wickets
Brentwood Under 11s retained the district cup after a very close game at Chelmer Park on Bank Holiday Monday. After conceding 12 runs in the first over Brentwood proceeded to bowl extremely well and Hutton began to collapse as James Boon and Adam Thomas took five wickets between them. Jack Thomas then came on and claimed two more wickets and Hutton were really struggling at 27 for 7. Hutton's Ballantyne and Jigsy then staged a recovery, slowly putting together a partnership of 34 for the eighth wicket. Brentwood continued to bowl well with everyone returning good figures and although Hutton managed to use the full 30 overs a total of 67 for 8 looked an attainable target for Brentwood.
However, Hutton bowled just as well as Brentwood had and with the score on 29 for 4 after 12 overs the game was very much in the balance. Jack Thomas joined opener Tim Barbone and they took the score to 42 before Thomas was out. Then Tom Coulson (8 not out) carried on the good work, batting very sensibly, and he and Barbone (33 not out) steered Brentwood to victory with just eleven balls to spare.
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1st September
BRENTWOOD 1st XI 222-6 declared
OLD SOUTHENDIANS 1st XI 150-8
SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION
Match Drawn
The writing is finally on the wall for Brentwood, as failure to secure a victory against fellow strugglers, Old Southendians, dooms them to relegation. There was a touch of irony in that this performance was a good one, a few more of which would have secured continuing first division status.
They received an early set-back when skipper Nigel Porter lost the toss and Old Southendians decided to bowl first, thus making it more difficult for Brentwood to achieve victory. The innings started badly for Brentwood when Richard Whitehall, who had been promoted up the order to score runs quickly, was bowled without scoring. Regular opener Paul Larner followed quickly and Brentwood were struggling at 21-2. Chris Boon and Danny Hazle embarked on a recovery partnership. Both players batted watchfully, yet continued to score at a reasonable rate. Hazle had scored 31 when he was out stumped, with the score on 73. Gary Jones continued the good work and the total swiftly
moved beyond 150 before Jones and Boon were out in quick succession, with Boon having scored 70. Matt Sutherland, Phil Howlett and James Smith maintained the momentum of the innings, with Howlett particularly batting well hitting a couple of large sixes. Porter was able to declare the innings on 222 after only 51 overs.
Brentwood opening bowlers, Richard Whitehall and Jo Fryd began well. Whitehall bowled particularly tightly and both bowlers beat the bat on a number of occasions. However, as has been the case for most of the season, it was when spinners Sutherland and Porter came on that wickets began to fall. A mix-up between the Old Southendian openers led to a run out, before Fryd took a catch off Sutherland. With the required run-rate now above 5 an over, the pressure seemed to take its toll on the batsmen. Porter clean bowled Des Beckett and Sutherland quickly took another two wickets. With 17 overs left and still needing 110 runs Southendians gave up the run chase and settled for a draw. Although Brentwood picked up another 3 wickets they were unable to bowl out the opposition and were forced to accept a draw.
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WALTHAMSTOW 2nd XI 205-4
BRENTWOOD 2nd XI 181 all out
SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION
Brentwood lost by 24 runs
The seconds look favourites to join the first team in the second division, as they failed to take advantage of winning the toss on a dreadful pitch at Walthamstow.
Asking the hosts to bat, Brentwood must have thought that they should restrict them to around 150 on a pitch that had golf-style divots flying out of it and a subsequent alarming and unpredictable bounce. The bowlers however were unable to make any use of the surface by not finding a line or a length to test the batsmen. The 150 was in fact reached without a wicket falling and it was therefore inevitable that a 200 plus score would be posted.
When asked to bat, the Walthamstow medium pacers immediately bowled a straight line and reaped the benefits. Three of the first four wickets fell to bat pad catches, with the batsmen trying to defend themselves. It was in Walthamstow's interest to secure a win too, as they are chasing promotion, so they decided to keep Brentwood in the game by offering up some innocuous second string bowler. The main benefactor was Nigel Mackay, who hit four sixes in a knock of 64. The hosts however achieved what they set out to, continually taking wickets, the last of which came with Brentwood still 24 short.
Brentwood have one last chance next week against Ardleigh Green, a victory being the minimum requirement and hoping the other results go their way.
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WALTHAMSTOW 4th XI 116-9
BRENTWOOD 4th XI 119-2
SHEPHERD NEAME PREMIER DIVISION
Brentwood won by 8 wickets
Many congratulations to Alan Houston and his premier league winning side. Promoted from the first division last year, this team has kept the habit of winning and taken the title at a stroll.
Their latest victim was Walthamstow, who were inserted on a poor pitch. James Apicella starred with the ball, mixing up seamers with off-spin to claim five for 26. He was well supported by Vithy Sivakumaran and Adrian Smith, both of which the hosts failed to get to grips with, while struggling to 116-9.
Such a small total to this team was no challenge and the runs were knocked off by Roger Mahadeo with 35 not out and the senior partner in the partnership, Tony Jones who made 65 not out. The target was achieved in just 28 overs.
The captain wishes to thank all the players who have performed so well for him this year, especially the colts, who can learn much from the team spirit and attitude displayed by this team.
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FIVES & HERONIANS 5th XI 200-3
BRENTWOOD 5th XI 112-9
SHEPHERD NEAME FIRST DIVISION
Match Drawn
Poor fielding including several dropped catches allowed Fives to run up 200 fairly quickly for the loss of only three wickets. Wicket takers for Brentwood were David Barbone 1 for 41, Owen Myers 1 for 20, Chris Boon 1 for 33. Although Brentwood lost wickets regularly, some tenacious batting by the three youngest batsmen saw them hold out for creditable draw as the light worsened and the Fives opening bowlers were brought back. Owen Myers made 20, Chris Boon 19 and Carl Manterfield 19 not out.
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2nd September
BRENTWOOD 238-8
HAROLD WOOD 215-6
INDIVIJEWELS PREMIER LEAGUE
Brentwood won by 23 runs
Brentwood will hope that this win will enable them to claim runners-up spot in their first year in the premier league.
The good total owed a lot to the fine century of Stuart Townson. His 111 included big hits all round the ground and set up a good total for Brentwood to defend. Townson was well supported by David Morgan who made 31 and Ken Lingwood who occupied the crease for 15 overs while Townson was at full flight.
Harold Wood got off to a good start, as Joe Fryd and Ron Brett failed to find the right line and length. However, Matt Sutherland turned the game around, bowling his 9 overs for just 10 runs. Richard Whitehall bowled well at the death, and although Harold Wood only lost 6 wickets, they could not pass the target set.
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BRENTWOOD LADIES 52-7
WRITTLE LADIES 49-9
(Friendly 25 over match)
A WIN FOR THE FINAL GAME OF THE SEASON!
An exciting last game of the season for Brentwood. Writtle won the toss and opted to bat first, only gaining 12 runs before the fall of the first wicket. F Mower bowled by Andrea Allen who went on to bowl 15 for 1 off 5 overs, including one maiden over. The bowlers from Brentwood gave an excellent performance managing to bowl the Writtle team out for 49. (Writtle were playing with only 10 players.) The fielding was great and Claire Lingwood's wicket keeping was yet again fantastic. A spectacular performance from Lorna Stuart 8 for 2 off 6 overs, including 3 maiden overs. Jane Harrington 6 for 1 off 4 overs, including 1 maiden over and Jenny Dowling 5 for 2 off 3 overs. So with 50 runs needed off 25 overs Brentwood, playing with 9 players, opened the batting with Jane Harrington and Lorna Stuart. Unfortunately Brentwood's batting didn't show the same signs of excellence as their bowling and the first wicket fell after only 3 runs by the pair. Lorna Stuart bowled by L Eaton. Andrea Allen batting 3rd with Jane, then managed to tally the runs to 14 before the next wicket fell, Andrea bowled, again by L Eaton - 25 for 2 off 5 overs. Pam then came in to bat 4th for Brentwood and put on a fine performance to stay in till the end, gaining 20 runs. With Brentwood managing 52 runs by the 18th over. Brentwood's skipper L Davis, watching from the side through injury, was very pleased to see a win for the team in their final game. The season is now finished for the Ladies but winter coaching will take place in the new year and the side is always looking for new players, any age - any ability. Keep a look out on the club web site for details www.brentwoodcc.co.uk
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