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14th May
Fives & Heronians 3rd XI - 217-9 declared
Brentwood 3rd XI - 220-8
Brentwood won by 2 wickets
Report by Ken Lingwood
An inexperienced Brentwood 3rd XI travelled to Fives for the start of this year's assault upon the title which eluded them last term.
Fives won the toss and elected to bat and got off to a flying start with the help of some indifferent Brentwood bowling. The hosts had raced to 43 from the first six overs before Brentwood debutant John Morgan deflected a driven ball from his own bowling on to the stumps, with the Fives batsman out of his ground. The second wicket followed very quickly as Morgan had Dhayaa trapped LBW to give him his first Brentwood wicket.
Fives consolidated and began to post a potentially formidable target. Opening bat R. Allum in particular took the attack to Brentwood. He had moved swiftly onto 84 before falling to a sharp catch by Mark Donkin from the bowling of another 3rd XI debutant, 14 year old Harry Jones. Harry is yet another product of Brentwood's spin bowling factory. He bowled an impressive and very long spell of 23 overs, yet such was his consistency and the ability to put Fives under a huge amount of pressure, that he made himself impossible to take off. The Brentwood Chairman may have to ensure the 3rd XI Captain takes greater care of such tender talent. On another day Jones will bowl worse and come away with a hatful of wickets.
With the Fives main run provider removed, Brentwood began to take control. John Morgan was to finish off an excellent afternoon's toil with 4 wickets from his 15 overs at a cost of only 40 runs. Jones finished his marathon spell with two wickets and conceded only 76 runs.
Fives declared with the score at 217 for 9 from 52 overs.
Brentwood's reply began poorly as they gifted Fives with two early wickets courtesy of two needless run outs. Another 3rd XI debutant David Moisan was joined in the middle by Skipper Ken Lingwood and began to repair the damage. Lingwood had made a brisk and commanding 26 before falling caught behind. The score had moved onto 74. The 4th wicket fell at 81 and Fives total was looking a stiff test. Brentwood's impetus was regained as Moisan and Mark Donkin put on 49 before Donkin fell for 26. Moisan meanwhile continued to hold the reply together with an excellent 68.
The constant ebb and flow of this contest now seemed to go back with Fives as two further wickets fell. Brentwood stood at 191 for 8 men down with 6 overs remaining. Fortunately Brentwood had Trevor Coote at the crease who used his vast experience to shepherd the inexperienced tail to within touching distance of victory. Yet with two overs remaining Brentwood required a further 10 runs with youngster Deni Mistry on strike. It was then that Brentwood were helped by the most unusual of allies.... the Fives Captain who was bowling and neglected to have either a 3rd man or fine leg. He paid the ultimate penalty as Mistry edged the 1st ball of the penultimate over through the vacant 3rd man area for four. Lesson learned you would have thought, but no, the second ball went through the same area!! He wouldn't make the same mistake surely? Not quite his third ball was speared down the leg side for four byes. Game over, with victory for Brentwood by two wickets. Mistry was unbeaten on 20 and Coote not out for an excellent 28.
Brentwood were relieved to get victory from this tricky fixture. Availability promises to be stronger for this coming weeks visit to Upminster.
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21st May
Upminster 3rd XI - 199-6
Brentwood 3rd XI - 217-4 declared
Match Drawn
Report by Peter Bainbridge
Brentwood's chance of improving on last season's second place in the Premier Division was hardly advertised by this winning draw. Dropped catches and indifferent bowling allowed Upminster, third-bottom last year, a sniff of an unlikely victory before their gallant run chase faded out.
The Brentwood batting line-up looked impressive on paper, if not in the flesh, and it was a setback when stand-in skipper Trevor Coote lost the toss, thus denying his willow wielders the chance to chase down a target for the second week.
The Brentwood innings was a slow-burner. Openers Dave Mathieson and Chris Dann struggled to get on top of a tight attack and by the time Mathieson fell for 18 with the score on 49, 22 overs had passed. Dann, the more fluent, was caught off a miscue for 35 with the score on 69 for two in the 26th over, which enabled Chris Lawless to stride purposely to the crease. Lawless was clearly a man with a mission and made his axing from the 2s look harsh by hammering a previously dominant attack to all corners as he enabled Brentwood to break free of the shackles. Lawless dominated a 76-run stand with Dave Moisan, showing a powerful array of shots as he careered past his fifty.
After a display of controlled aggression, it came as a surprise when he lifted his head and was bowled. However, his 58, off 50 deliveries, had shifted the balance of power and Roger Mahadeo continued the good work with a stylish, dashing cameo of 23 from 19 balls. Mark Donkin was his usual elegant self in a quick-fire unbeaten 14 while Moisan, quick to dispatch anything overpitched, completed his second successive half-century. The new boy looks a valuable addition to the 3s, capable of grinding out some big scores amid his more dashing colleagues. Moisan was on 57 when Coote, confident that Brentwood had scored enough and that the teas had arrived at the ground, declared after 49 overs.
The captain's understated team talk at the interval looked to have worked wonders when Peter Bainbridge snapped up wickets in successive deliveries in the third over to reduce Upminster to eight for two. With John Morgan bowling tightly into a fierce wind at the other end, Upminster quickly fell behind the pace and suffered another setback when Morgan's replacement, Harry Jones, struck with his second delivery, the ball spinning viciously back into the stumps off the bat.
A third wicket for Bainbridge reduced Upminster to 42 for four in the 19th over and victory seemed assured. Unfortunately, the ball started to fly over, and sometimes through, fielders and Upminster turned the game around. By the time the final 20 overs began, the home side had streaked to 105, needing another 113 to win, and pressed on to such good effect that the fielders were giving the scoreboard, and their watching captain, nervous glances. Bainbridge returned to the attack and bowled danger-man Harrison for 60 with the score at 151, the 109-run fourth-wicket stand leaving Upminster needing 67 off the final 10 overs.
With the inexperienced Jones bowling economically at the other end, Upminster's chance drifted away and a panic-induced run out finally ended their hopes. The match finished with Upminster captain Pagett unable to score off the final three deliveries, thus denying his side an extra batting point and himself a century. However, his unbeaten 97 had rescued his side from a precarious position. Bainbridge, four for 65 from 18 overs, and Jones, one for 45 from 13, were the pick of the bowlers.
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28th May
Brentwood 3rd XI - 271-8 declared
Hainault & Clayhall 3rd XI - 201-8
Match Drawn
Report by Ken Lingwood
Brentwood played host to newly promoted Hainault & Clayhall. Brentwood were invited to bat by the visitors, a decision that was to prove vital on a quick outfield and an excellent batting wicket. They got off to a flying start as openers Shane Surujbally and Nick Childs laid waste to the Hainault & Clayhall bowling attack, putting on 61 for the first wicket in 11 overs. Surujbally was the first batsman to fall. Momentum was however maintained as Joe Surtees in at three continued to dispatch any loose deliveries.
Both Childs and Surtees made their half centuries as Brentwood looked to push forward for an early declaration. The pair had pushed the score onto 160 from only 26 overs as Surtees fell for an excellent 57. Chris Lawless, enjoying a rich vein of form continued to torment the Hainault & Clayhall bowlers as he too gorged himself at the buffet.
When Lawless fell for 46 and Childs for 60, Brentwood's dramatic progress began to slow. The declaration came with the score on 271 for 8 from 45.4 overs.
Brentwood's quest for victory began in dramatic fashion as Peter Bainbridge took two wickets in consecutive balls in his first over. He was to take his third wicket in his 4 over. The visitors were always behind the required run rate allowing Brentwood's Captain Ken Lingwood to set an attacking field as he mixed his attack in search of victory and 20 points. Bainbridge's opening partner Owen Myers produced an encouraging opening spell, full of pace and determination, although luckless as he continually whistled past the outside edge. Myers was replaced with another young and excellent prospect as Surtees was brought into the attack. Surtees displays a maturity beyond his years. His pace, line and particularly his length was a surprise to all, as he caused the Hainault & Clayhall to have a very uncomfortable time of it.
Brentwood were making in roads into the visitors batting as young Harry Jones took two wickets from his good spell of off spin. Bainbridge came back to take two further wickets and in turn complete an excellent afternoons work returning figures of 5 wickets from 13 overs for 45 runs.
As a couple of catches went down it was clear that Brentwood were running out of time and the game ended as a draw. Hainault & Clayhall finished on 201 for 8 wickets. Brentwood performed well and would surely have won this fixture if they had won the toss and batted second. After three games Brentwood lie well placed in third place as they travel this weekend to Gidea Park and Romford.
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4th June
Gidea Park & Romford 3rd XI - 238 all out
Brentwood 3rd XI - 188 all out
Gidea Park & Romford won by 50 runs
Report by Peter Bainbridge
Brentwood suffered their first defeat of the Premier League season after their desperate attempt to salvage a draw narrowly failed.
Gidea Park rode their luck in rattling up a challenging total after being inserted. Opening batsman Montgomery had scored 40 of the first 49 runs when Peter Bainbridge bowled his inhibited partner in the 11th over. The run rate slipped as Mark Donkin came on to help tie Montgomery down and he got his reward when Tony Dann at mid-on held on to a catch to dismiss the No3. Montgomery had moved on to 75 before spin wizard Harry Jones tricked him into drilling a catch down John Morgan's throat at long off in his first over. Jones quickly added a second wicket to make the score 124 for 4 in the 30th over and Brentwood continued to keep a check on the scoring rate until at 169 for five in the 40th over, Gidea Park made a decisive charge. Number 7 Carter punished Brentwood for dropping him off a simple early chance at midwicket by hammering a half century. Gidea Park hit 69 in the closing 11 overs. Jones again confirmed his potential by bagging his first senior five wicket haul, taking five for 48 from 12 overs. Bainbridge finished with four for 82 from 18.
Unavailability had hit the Brentwood batting line-up particularly hard. An unfamiliar opening pair of Jack Anderson and Dann, along with Alex Priddle, quickly departed to leave the score at nine for three. Roger Mahadeo and Owen Myers rallied until Mahadeo was next out at 46. Donkin's arrival briefly gave Brentwood hope of an unlikely victory as he struck some lusty blows and shared an attractive stand of 65 with his young sidekick. Sadly, both fell in quick succession, Donkin for 48 and Myers for 30, and Brentwood had slid to 128 for eight when the final 20 overs began. Rob Coote and Bainbridge staged a stout rearguard action that threatened to avert defeat. Coote mixed masterful defence with powerful straight hitting, while Bainbridge blocked with aplomb. Just as Gidea Park turned their relentless sledging on to themselves, the resistance was broken. Coote was snapped up at short mid-on in the 17th of the final 20 overs after a stand of 60. Jones departed very next ball, leaving Bainbridge undefeated on 23.
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11th June
Hornchurch - 286-7 declared
Brentwood - 264
Match Drawn
Report by Ken Lingwood
Newly promoted, high flying Hornchurch visited Brentwood, who were looking for a springboard to ignite their lack lustre start to the season.
On winning the toss Hornchurch were invited to bat. Brentwood's opening bowlers Peter Bainbridge and Owen Myers began well, beating the outside edge on regular occasions. The pivotal point of the match was to arrive very early, as Hornchurch's prolific Phil Brooks who had made four, took one too many a chance as he edged a delivery from Myers to his Uncle Barry Brooks the Brentwood keeper. The slip cordon went up with delight, the batsmen began to walk, however the keepers gloves had other ideas as they juggled the ball like a circus act, time went into slow motion as delight turned to horror, the ball slipped out of the keepers clutches to the ground. It was to prove most expensive as Brooks went on to make an excellent 145!! Although Uncle Barry was denied his revenge as the Hornchurch opener clearly edged another to him, this time the catch was taken only for the umpire to give it not out and the batsman unable to walk.
A fast outfield and some prodigious hitting took the Hornchurch score to a formidable declaration in 48 overs with the score on 286 for 7. The pick of Brentwood's bowling was Own Myers who took 3 wickets for 52 in 10.5 overs.
Although a big total Brentwood were confident of chasing it down. Barry Brooks and Shane Surujbally started well, until the latter fell for 11. Chris Lawless replaced him and kept the required rate up with a brisk 47, before offering up a simple catch. Skipper, Ken Lingwood came in to join Brooks only to see Brooks out lbw for 31. Lingwood and new arrival Roger Mahadeo pushed the score along with some splendid shotmaking. The ball was regularly dispatched to the boundary. The pair had put on 69 and pushed the score to 161 before Mahadeo inexplicably ran himself out for 43 by attempting an impossible run. Lingwood moved up a gear and took the attack to the visitors with a mix of driving a cutting. The Hornchurch was well within reach as Lingwood moved onto to 78 before he was very well caught and bowled by Coombe. Momentum was lost and despite the valiant Brentwood efforts in the gathering gloom they were unable to reach the required total, eventually finishing on 264 and therefore drawing.
Both teams can take positives away from this entertaining fixture, although Brentwood will rue their early mistake.
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18th June
Brentwood 3rd XI - 237-8
Woodford Wells 3rd XI - 233-8 declared
Brentwood won by 2 wickets
Report by Ken Lingwood
The hottest day of the season so far saw visitors Woodford Wells win the toss and elect to bat. They got off to a flier scoring 112 in the first 20 overs without loss. However, once the curvaceous well seasoned Dave Barbone removed the free scoring Wells number one the express run rate began to slow. Barbone used all of his experience to exert sufficient pressure upon the Wells. He was to take 3 wickets in all, in a very good debut 3rd XI game. If he continues his progression he will be knocking on the 1st XI door.
13 year old Harry Jones again displayed his burgeoning talent by removing the dangerous Caban with a beautifully flighted delivery and reducing the visitors run rate still further. The pick of the bowlers was the evergreen Peter Bainbridge who also took 3 wickets and was a constant thorn in the Wells side. They were to declare on 233 from 52 overs. A total which Brentwood felt was achievable on such a good batting track and fast outfield.
Openers Barry Brooks and Roger Mahadeo made a watchful and deliberate start which although gave little joy to the scorers meant they accumulated a significant score before Brooks in his frustration to move the score along offered up a simple chance which was not spurned. Tony Jones joined Mahadeo and both struck the ball with aplomb and moved Brentwood to the brink of victory before Jones took one chance to many and paid the ultimate price being bowled for a splendid 50. Captain Ken Lingwood joined Mahadeo to seemingly see Brentwood home to victory. The visitors had other ideas as Mahadeo fell for a glorious 88. Lingwood looked on in horror as he bore witness to a Brentwood batting collapse from the non strikers end. What should have been an easy victory became an uncomfortable and exciting climax. Brentwood's lower middle order staged an extraordinary collapse. Brentwood were 8 wickets down with 3 overs to be played and 20 runs required. Bainbridge joined Lingwood and proved to be the ideal foil as the Skipper steered the home side to a fine victory from the jaws of defeat finishing on 39 not out.
This was a highly competitive fixture played in a good spirit, with a good all round Brentwood performance taking them to a well earned victory.
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25th June
Brentwood 3rd XI - 166-9 declared
Wanstead 3rd XI - 160 all out
Brentwood won by 6 runs
Report by Ken Lingwood
Brentwood 3rd XI travelled to Wanstead and won a heart stopping roller coaster of a match in the last over.
Brentwood lost the most vital of tosses and were invited to bat by a clearly jubilant Wanstead skipper Martin Pluck. The overnight rain and atmospheric conditions were seam and swing bowling utopia.
Brentwood's opening pair applied themselves admirably as the prodigious new ball movement made for torrid batting conditions. Having seen off Wanstead opening bowler Dave Smith, Brentwood's opening pair Tony Jones (25) and Roger Mahadeo (17) fell in the same over to first change seamer Chris De Jager . Chris Lawless and Dave Moisan moved the score along steadily, with Lawless in particular looking the more comfortable.
As Brentwood gained the initiative Pluck moved Graham Webb into the attack, a move which was to prove decisive. Webb's slow metronomic seam bowling laid waste to Brentwood's middle order as he took six wickets from his spell of 19 overs, conceding only 45 runs in the process. Only Lawless offered any real resistance as he to became a Webb victim having made an excellent 65 despite the tearing of a hamstring. A late and comical knock from the aged Ash Patel moved the score to respectability and faint hope for the visitors.
Brentwood's innings closed on 166 for 9 from 52 overs.
By now the wicket had dried considerably and the earlier demons had made way for a more batting friendly arena. Nonetheless undaunted, Brentwood set about their task with trademark spirit and determination.
In form Peter Bainbridge was first to strike bowling Bothma in his second over. He was bowling with his usual accuracy and was extracting a good amount of movement which by now was down to ability rather than a helpful pitch. Wanstead consolidated and in the face of the excellent Brentwood attack of Bainbridge, Ash Patel and 13 year old off spinner Harry Jones, they cruised to a position where they required only 58 runs from the last 20 overs with 7 wickets intact.
Wanstead had the game by the scruff of it's neck with victory seemingly assured as both Ahmed and Joslin batted with confidence, yet all was to change as both fell in quick succession. Victory for the home side should still have been achievable as with 12 overs remaining they required only 28 runs with still 6 wickets in hand.
The feeling of optimism began to grow in the Brentwood ranks as the their quite superb bowling and fielding induced a number of poor shots and more importantly a tangible feeling of fear in the Wanstead line up that their grip on the game was slipping. Shouts of encouragement from the Wanstead watching faithful were diminishing, as the crescendo of noise and the audible buzz of enthusiasm from Brentwood's fielders was nothing short of amazing. Their ground fielding was sensational, catches were taken wickets began to tumble. Wanstead's runs dried up as thoughts of victory were replaced by thoughts of survival. Brentwood 3rd XI's team spirit has on numerous occasions in the past helped them out of many a hole but this was different, encouragement and good natured banter is never far away and never crosses the line into gamesmanship. This was team spirit breathtaking in its sweep, that pushed bowlers and fielders alike to feats of brilliance.
Bainbridge was to take 4 wickets from 17 overs for 40 runs. Harry Jones at 13 produced an incredible spell of off spin for one so young. His last spell of bowling read 7.1 overs 2 wickets for only 12 runs. Ash Patel also pitched in with a couple of wickets.
Amazingly Brentwood got themselves into a position where Wanstead required 7 runs from the last over with only 1 wicket left. Panic seemed to engulf the last Wanstead batsmen as the first ball of the last over was edged out to backward point. Brentwood's Shane Surujbally charged at the ball like a mad bull elephant, then charge turned to grace as he skillfully scooped the ball up and threw towards the bowlers end. Wanstead's Martin Pluck was left stranded by three yards as the ball smashed the stumps down. Despite the obvious tension of the contest this game was played in the best of spirits.
The most amazing of come backs was complete as Brentwood's unlikely victory takes them to 3rd place and displays a statement of intent to the rest of the Division. Brentwood travel to top of the table South Woodford this coming Saturday.
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2nd July
Brentwood 3rd XI - 196
South Woodford 3rd XI - 191
Brentwood won by 5 runs
Report by Peter Bainbridge
Brentwood again showed their strength of character as they rose to top spot in the Premier Division for the first time this season with a second successive 20-point victory.
As in the previous week's defeat of reigning champions Wanstead, Brentwood valiantly clutched victory from the jaws of defeat, this time against a South Woodford side who had been leading the table. For the second week, Brentwood's loss of the toss saw them inserted on a difficult wicket and it took some disciplined batting to amass a respectable total. Roger Mahadeo exemplified the gritty spirit in the
Brentwood team, refusing to allow the awkward bounce to deflect him from his steady gathering of runs. Even a blow to the face that left a ripe seam mark on his chin was unable to break his resolve as he held the innings together with a superb 66. Only occasionally was he able to show his dazzling array of forcing shots, but his solid defence and Zen-like concentration were adequate compensation for his watching team-mates. Tony Jones (17) and Ken Lingwood (20) provided early support and Dayan
Gulrajani (24), Ash Patel (16) and the powerful driving of Alex Priddle (28) added late impetus before the innings ended in the 52nd over.
The South Woodford reply survived a few early scares before Kevin Bradford gained his reward with the wickets of both openers, the second to a particularly smart catch at first slip from Tony Jones. The home side, however, then began to get on top, making full use of the short boundary on one side of the wicket.
Patel made a breakthrough in his first over but as the final 20 overs began, South Woodford were at 125 for four, a position of strength but far from unassailable for a Brentwood side who have learned to never stop believing.
The fightback commenced when Peter Bainbridge came back into the attack and took wickets with his first two deliveries to set the cat among the pigeons. With off-spinner Harry Jones bowling arguably his best spell of an already superb season at the other end, runs suddenly dried up and panic broke out in the South Woodford ranks.
Shane Surujbally plucked an exocet of a drive out of the air at long-off off Jones, Bainbridge induced an edge to first slip, smart work in the field saw the No10 run out and suddenly South Woodford were nine down with 12 still needed to win from four overs.
With their No3 batsman still at the crease, admittedly after having been put down twice in the deep off Jones, South Woodford were still in the hunt, but the game ended fittingly when Jones found the edge of the No11's bat and the safe hands of his father, Tony, at slip took the catch, his third of the match.
Jones Jnr finished with three for 54 from 11.3 excellent overs, Bainbridge with three for 37 from 13 and Bradford two for 37 from nine. Brentwood are at home next Saturday to Walthamstow when they will
attempt to consolidate their new-found position at the top.
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9th July
Brentwood 3rd XI - 232-9
Walthamstow 3rd XI - 243-6 declared
Match Drawn
Report by Peter Bainbridge
Brentwood retained their position at the top of the Premier Division but received a wake-up call with this losing draw. Despite winning the toss and having the best of the conditions, Brentwood were on the back foot for much of the afternoon before making a belated challenge to lowly Walthamstow's target.
After being forced to bat first in unfriendly conditions on their previous two starts, Brentwood were delighted to win the toss and insert the opponents under overcast skies. Peter Bainbridge and Owen Myers produced prodigious early swing and seam movement but went unrewarded as the Walthamstow openers dug in and made the most of their luck. The scoring rate remained firmly in check as Walthamstow opted for a survival-at-all-costs attitude and Brentwood's only successes came from two runs outs, leaving the visitors on 95 for two in the 35th over.
With wickets in hand and the conditions becoming more batting friendly, Walthamstow then threw caution to the wind with a concerted assault on the Brentwood attack. Ash Patel and Bainbridge were the main
victims, suffering punishment surely unfair on men of their stately years, and were not helped by some uncharacteristically sloppy fielding.
Thankfully, off-spinner Harry Jones remained stoic amid the pandemonium and his impeccable control of line and length brought due reward. Although Myers showed impressive pace to curtail the scoring rate in the closing stages, only Jones picked up wickets, finishing with four for 60 from 13 overs as Walthamstow declared on 243 for six from 52 overs.
The total was at least 50 more than Brentwood had been expecting but they remained confident in their talent-packed batting line-up. Prospects of victory swiftly slumped however when they slipped to 28 for four in the 12th over despite the stout resistance of in-form opener Roger Mahadeo.
Neil Wickes (11) helped halt the slump, and then Owen Myers (13) joined Mahadeo in a 53-run stand for the sixth wicket. However, the run rate was well below the requirement and when both fell in quick
succession, Mahadeo for an excellent 74, Brentwood were in a desperate state at 122 for 7 in the fourth of the final 20 overs.
Victory looked an impossible task, but as Brentwood had shown in previous weeks, they never know when to give in and Patel joined Trevor Coote in a partnership that threatened to create another famous victory against the odds.
Patel laid into the bowling with the enthusiasm of someone a quarter his age and dished out the sort of punishment he had suffered as a bowler earlier in the afternoon. His flashing blade took him past his 50 in double-quick time and reduced the Walthamstow attack to trying to bounce him out. Unfortunately, the tactic worked and Patel edged a bouncer, the third in one over, to the grateful wicketkeeper. He had added 98 in 12 overs with Coote and on his exit Brentwood needed another 34 in four overs. Bainbridge struck a couple of lusty blows to keep the game in the balance but when he fell in the penultimate over, the chase was over. Coote batted out for the draw and remained undefeated on 36.
Brentwood host Fives and Heronians on Saturday.
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16th July
Brentwood 3rd XI - 263 all out in 49 overs
Fives and Heronians 3rd XI - 153 for 8 in 49.3 overs
Match Drawn
Report by Ken Lingwood
Table toppers Brentwood played host to bottom-placed Fives.
Having won the toss, Fives surprisingly asked Brentwood to bat, making any victory for the home side all the more difficult on an excellent batting track. Brentwood's start faltered in the third over as Shane Surujbally was caught at cover. Fellow opener John Morgan was joined by 16 year-old Neil Wicks whom by his own admission has been struggling to find form this season. He was however to prove most emphatically that although form may be temporary, class is very much more permanent. He was soon in his stride playing shots on both sides of the wicket. He moved serenely passed his 50 and in turn had two 80 run partnerships with both Dean Goddard and Owen Myers.
Brentwood's run rate was at a good rate, in contrast to the over rate of the visitors who were demonstrating their depth of ambition early on. Wicks continued apace and was to complete a chanceless century. Brentwood increased further the run rate which in turn allowed Fives to take a number of wickets. Wicks fell for 113. Fives' Captain Keith Coleman finished with figures of 5 wickets 2 maidens for 67 runs from 16 overs.
Brentwood were bowled out in the 50th over for 263.
It was clear that Brentwood had to win to remain at the top of the Premier League. Captain Lingwood elected to retain the old ball and opened up with the slow inviting bowling of Ash Patel and Dean Goddard. Fives had to strive to win this game having elected to field, so it was a great surprise to see that the Fives top order seemingly had no appetite for the delicacies on offer from Goddard and Patel. 14 overs had passed with the score at not even 2 an over before the first wicket fell. Brentwood's hopes were further raised with two wickets in two balls the very next over from Patel.
By now it was clear to all that survival was the only target for Fives. Brentwood continued to toil away, the bowling was very good, so too was the ground fielding, however, this week Brentwood lacked a recognised spin bowler which was clearly a problem. Try as they might the hosts could not prise enough wickets to bowl Fives out. The game finished with Fives and Heronians making 153 for 8 from 49 overs.
Brentwood now second in the League by three points are at home this weeks to Upminster.
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23rd July
Upminster 3rd XI - 256 for 8 from 52 overs
Brentwood 3rd XI - 208 all out in 47.4 overs
Upminster won by 48 runs
Report by Ken Lingwood
Brentwood 3rd XI's title aspirations took yet another blow, with a poor all round performance against an Upminster side who displayed enough fighting spirit and quality to avoid relegation should they continue in the same manner.
On winning the toss Upminster elected to bat on a good pitch and lighting fast outfield. It became clear that as Upminster rode their luck and with wickets hard to find, containment was the order of the day. Owen Myers continued his fine form in opening the Brentwood bowling attack. He was unfortunate to finish his opening spell with only the one wicket. Sooner or later Myers will run through a top order opposition and return with a hatful of wickets.
Myers opening partner was the veteran Ash Patel who bowled with his usual accuracy. In an effort to take a few wickets and slow the fluent collection of Upminster runs the Brentwood skipper turned to his two young leg spinners Chris Boon and Dayan Gulrajani. A decision he was left to rue as the Upminster batsmen laid the pair to waste. Wyatt in particular hit a number of big boundaries in his very own agricultural style.
Upminster were scoring at will and a score of 300 plus was on. With Patel toiling in the heat from one end, Mark Donkin was introduced into the attack. He made an immediate impact by removing the dangerous Wyatt and opener Thompson for 65 and 48 respectively. The run rate began to slow as Donkin and Patel bowled economically. The overs ticked by wickets fell, Upminster declared after 52 overs with 256. Patel finished a marathon spell of 23 overs taking 2 wickets for 86 runs. Donkin 12 overs, 3 wickets for 51 runs.
In the end Brentwood were pleased to restrict the score to 256 and were optimistic for victory with their strong batting line up. Upminster had other ideas as opening bowler Bobby Mack took 2 quick wickets in the 3rd over. The second of which was a sensational catch at gully by McNeela to remove the in form Mahadeo. The catch was to set the tone and standard of fielding that severely restricted the Brentwood scoring options. David Smith and Trevor Coote were unable to pierce the field and the runs dried up.
Coote was bowled by Mack for 17. Captain Lingwood strode to the crease with much work to do. He knew it but unfortunately so too did the Upminster skipper, who brought on the slow inviting bowling of left armer Pete Williams. Lingwood was comfortable against the medium pace as he and Smith looked to accelerate the score and endeavour to claw back the earlier slow scoring. Williams was not to Lingwood's liking as he was bowled for 14. Dean Goddard was soon to follow, again to Williams. This brought Mark Donkin to the fray fresh from his successful bowling stint. He set about the Upminster attack with abandon with many a majestic shot. His 50 came up off of only 29 balls. Brentwood were in the game if Donkin could shepherd the strike and more importantly retain his partners. Despite his best efforts Donkin was left on 63 not out as Upminster scuttled the Brentwood lower order all too easily. Brentwood were bowled out for 208 with 5 overs to go. Upminster's Pete Williams returned figures of 10.4 overs 5 wickets for 34 runs.
Brentwood have now slipped to 3rd behind South Woodford and Hornchurch. They travel to Hainault and Clayhall this coming Saturday where a win is required to get their season back on track.
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30th July
Hainault & Clayhall 3rd XI - 163 all out (45 overs)
Brentwood 3rd XI - 119 all out
Hainault & Clayhall won by 44 runs
Report by Ken Lingwood
Brentwood suffered a second successive defeat away to Hainault & Clayhall, a result which will see them lose further ground in their now unlikely quest for Premiership glory.
Brentwood won the toss and Captain Lingwood had no hesitation in inviting the hosts to bat on a distinctly uninviting batting track. Opening the seam bowling were two 16 year-olds, Owen Myers and Jamie Battu, who both bowled well in their six over opening spell. Battu was to make the breakthrough taking the wickets of both opening batsmen.
Runs were hard to come by as the evergreen Tony Prior and Ash Patel were introduced into the attack. Both were to take wickets in their second over. Brentwood were in the ascendancy as wickets fell at regular occasions, all the bowlers contributed with a share as none of the Hainault batsmen could settle into an innings of substance. They were to be bowled out in the 45th over for 163. A total that was thought to be par for the course on such an ill-prepared wicket.
In reply Brentwood's opening batsmen Tony Jones and John Morgan were measured and watchful against a very good Hainault attack. However, both were to be bowled by the excellent left arm swing of S. Chhokar, who was to destroy the Brentwood top order by clean bowling the first four batsmen. The worrying trend for Brentwood continued, as batter after batter threw their wicket away when occupation of the crease would have lead to victory. Only 16 year old Owen Myers offered any real resistance with 36. The second highest score for Brentwood were 19 extras as they were bowled out for a very disappointing 119.
Brentwood have fallen to 4th place and 20 points off the lead. Victory this coming Saturday against Gidea Park & Romford is essential so as to put a stop to their current free fall.
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6th August
Brentwood 3rd XI - 204-8 (52 overs)
Gidea Park & Romford 3rd XI - 71 all out
Brentwood won by 133 runs
Report by Ken Lingwood
Brentwood's opening bowler Peter Bainbridge produced his finest Brentwood performance as he destroyed the visitors' batting line up, his 15.5 overs delivered 8 wickets including a hattrick for only 27 runs.
Brentwood and GPR, both desperate for a win to reignite their respective title challenges, met at Brentwood. On winning the toss Brentwood were invited to bat on a good wicket. GPR opened up their bowling attack with Paul Winmill and S. Riley, regrettably Riley injured himself after only three balls and was replaced by the evergreen Andy Jenner. Brentwood made a steady and watchful start as opening batsmen Neil Wickes and Tony Jones set their stall out to build a firm foundation to the Brentwood innings following the teams recent poor performances with the bat.
Jenner was producing considerable movement and lift as his took the top three Brentwood wickets, including that of Tony Jones who had made a good 64. Brentwood were 119 for 3 after 30 overs and in a good position to make a daunting total. Unfortunately, Brentwood's middle order once again displayed their soft underbelly as within the next ten overs the score was to only moved onto 137 yet a further 4 wickets were lost. Not for the first time Ash Patel and Trevor Coote were brought together with much work to do, they took the attack to the GPR's experienced but weary bowlers. As the run rate increased the GPR confidence waned the first target of 175 was reached then an unlikely 200 was in sight. Despite the loss of Coote for 24, Patel continued to entertain, he was to finish with 43 not out as Brentwood's comeback was completed as they declared on 204 for 8 after 52 overs. Jenner was to finish with the excellent figures of 25.3 overs, 7 maidens, 6 wickets, for 96 runs.
GPR were dealt a severe psychological blow in those last 10 overs as Brentwood pulled themselves from the brink to post a competitive score, conversely Brentwood were full of confidence and were displaying a determination missing in the last three weeks. Peter Bainbridge and Tony Prior took the new ball, both were to find their rhythm instantly, pressure was further applied as the Brentwood skipper set a field not seen since the West Indies of the 70's and 80's.
Bainbridge was first to strike in his second over, Prior followed with one of his own in the next. Bainbridge was to take a further three wickets in his next 4 overs. GPR were holding on with Jenner in particular showing his experience in defence.
Harry Jones was introduced into the bowling attack, he was the game's youngest bowler by around 30 years yet bowled once again with a control way beyond his years. Brentwood's captain Lingwood attempted to rest the in form Bainbridge for what he thought would be a second spell later. Bainbridge pleaded for another over. Lingwood gave in and his loyalty was rewarded in the most remarkable way as Bainbridge claimed his hattrick and effectively ended the GPR effort in the very next over. Two overs later Bainbridge took his 8th wicket, the match and 20 valuable points.
Results elsewhere meant that this win was vital to keep in touch, a repeat performance this coming weekend is required as Brentwood in third place visit second placed Hornchurch.
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13th August
Brentwood 3rd XI - 279-3 declared (45 overs)
Hornchurch 3rd XI - 201-5 (35 overs)
Match Drawn
Report by Ken Lingwood
With the weather almost certain to play a big role in this encounter of the 2nd and 3rd placed teams, it was of great surprise to Brentwood that they found themselves invited to bat. The outfield was very quick and the batting surface good as Brentwood made a good steady start. Surujbally was first to fall in the 17th over with the score on 81. Brentwood's good start was further enhanced as Tom Childs joined opener Tony Jones. Jones had made a fine 62 before falling LBW to Hornchurch skipper Francis Baptiste.
Tom was joined by his father, Dave Childs, and increased the scoring rate with a fine hundred partnership taking the score to 207 in the 38th over. By now the promised rain had arrived. Despite conditions Brentwood batting was imperious as young Tom Childs made his 3rd XI maiden half-century only to be run out for 71 by a straight drive deflected onto the stumps as he backed up.
Captain Ken Lingwood joined Childs Snr. but before he struck his first blow the rain became heavier and forced the players off. Play was delayed for 50 valuable minutes during which time tea was taken. Brentwood had made 208 for 3 wickets from 36 overs and were in control of the game. Their innings continued after the rain break. Dave Childs moved his score along to a fine 72 not out and Lingwood providing a short cameo for a quick fire 32 not out, as the declaration was made after 45 overs with the score on 279 for three.
Rain was never far away, it was imperative for Brentwood that the match was completed as they were the team to gain most from this fixture already having gained maximum batting points. For a match to be deemed complete 25 overs must be bowled in the 2nd innings. Brentwood started their attack with the heavy rain soaked old ball, in tandem with a couple of old soaked bowlers, Tony Jones and Tony Prior. The old ball is difficult to score with and Brentwood hoped that false shots would be induced. The tactic was proved correct as Jones bowled the dangerous Brooks in his second over, a decisive moment, as although a large total to make Hornchurch had the armoury to reach it and the in-form Brooks was key.
Wickets were difficult to come by in the ever darkening and wet conditions, it was touch and go whether Brentwood would be able to bowl their 25 overs. The rain stopped but the light was very bad, as Brentwood took a further 4 wickets. Hornchurch batted sensibly in the gathering gloom with Bannister completing a fine century. The match was drawn (10 points for Brentwood and 5 for Hornchurch), Hornchurch finished on 201 for 5, and remain in second place 4 points ahead of 3rd place Brentwood. South Woodford remain top of the Premier League by a large 24 points with 4 matches left.
Brentwood travel to Woodford Wells this coming Saturday.
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20th August
Woodford Wells 3rd XI - 324-6 (52 overs)
Brentwood 3rd XI - 286-8 (49 overs)
Match Drawn
Report by Ken Lingwood
Brentwood travelled to the Wells in the hope of starting a run of victories in the last four fixtures that would go some way close to winning the Premiership title.
Upon winning the toss the Wells chose to bat on a good wicket, fast outfield and very short boundaries. Openers Mays and Patel got off to a good start despite the attentions of Brentwood's opening salvo of Peter Bainbridge and Jamie Battu. Runs were flowing frequently as Brentwood failed to take the necessary early wickets. Bainbridge was to strike first by bowling Patel, but Mays continued apace punishing anything wayward. He went on to make a fine 81 before becoming victim to a fine spell of bowling from young off spinner Harry Jones.
With solid foundations set, the Wells played with increased purpose with Ash Patel suffering most in the early stages of his spell, as the boundary was found far too regularly. Patel was just about to be removed from the attack when with the penultimate ball of his supposed last over Wilkinson again endeavoured to find the gardens, only to offer up a towering chance that Ken Lingwood was only too relieved to find nestling in his hands. Patel was reprieved. Amazingly in Patel's next over the Wells skipper Tim Caban tried also to find the maximum only to once again fire the ball straight up into the clouds, and once again Lingwood found himself circling underneath it and safely taking it.
The succession of wickets slowed the run rate, that was until the arrival of 14 year-old S. Khan who in tandem with first Shah and then Waller took the attack to Brentwood's medium pacers. The last ten overs were hard to bear for Brentwood as Khan put them to the sword, he was to finish on 62 not out and the declaration came with the Wells on a formidable 324.
With the pitch and conditions still run-friendly Brentwood were confident of victory despite the daunting total. A fast yet wicketless start was required to build the foundation essential in such a run chase. Although the Wells were unable to take the early wicket they kept the run rate down below the asking rate.
As Brentwood openers tried to push the score they offered up the inevitable chances which were duly taken by the Wells. The Brentwood top order offered little resistance as wicket after wicket was given away. The Wells were looking to secure a 20 point win as the 7th Brentwood wicket fell in the 27th over with the score on 111. All that Brentwood could hope for was to scrap for any batting points they could muster. However, Ash Patel and Peter Bainbridge - Brentwood's numbers 8 and 9 - had other ideas, as both dispatched the Wells attack in a fashion that put their top order batsmen to shame. Bainbridge fell just short of his maiden half century, his 42 coming off just 28 balls. Bainbridge and Patel had been racing along at over 10 an over, a rate which if maintained would have brought the most unlikely of victories.
Patel continued to tear into the Wells attack, his bat like a light sabre cutting and slashing the ball to the boundaries, he brought his hundred up and went onto 119 not out from only 76 balls, a remarkable performance that denied the Wells their victory and - with Bainbridge - brought pride to an otherwise abject Brentwood performance.
Brentwood now find themselves 45 points off the top with only three remaining fixtures.
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27th August
Brentwood 3rd XI - 182 all out
Wanstead 3rd XI - 183-7
Wanstead won by 3 wickets
Report by Ken Lingwood
Brentwood entertained a Wanstead side that find themselves in the uncharacteristic position of staving off relegation. For their part Brentwood's faint title hopes required a collection of 20 points and results elsewhere going in their favour.
On winning the toss Brentwood were invited to bat first, openers Captain Ken Lingwood and Tony Jones were soon parted as Lingwood fell to the first of veteran seam bowler Dave Smith's 8 wickets in the 5th over. Brentwood's hopes of posting a high target were diminishing as the damp wicket was more helpful to the bowlers. Brentwoods top order batsmen were struggling to cope with the early seam movement. Tony Jones once again proved his quality as he manfully deterred Wanstead's best efforts until he fell for 42. The returning Chris Lawless also put up stiff resistance and was looking comfortable until he too became a Smith victim, falling for 44. Brentwood found themselves 132 for 5 down in the 37th over.
Regrettably for Brentwood, instead of pushing on to a total of over 200, they once again demonstrated their inexplicable lack of application in the middle order which has haunted them all season and prevented them finding a League position that their ability should justify.
Dave Smith was in his pomp as a Brentwood collapse ensued, not even last weeks hero the mercurial Patel could stop the rot, as Brentwood were bowled out for 182 in the 50th over. Smith finishing with an 8 wicket haul.
With conditions still seamer friendly, Brentwood were confident of creating problems for an underachieving Wanstead batting line up. Brentwood started well as the in form Bothma was run out, he edged a ball to 3rd man and was coming back for a second run as Yoda Patel ambled after it, his wizened body belies the fact that Patel has a laser like arm. Bothma was run out by some distance .
Wickets fell at regular intervals as Brentwood's bowlers and in particular Peter Bainbridge made life very difficult for Wanstead. At 7 down with 13 overs to play Brentwood were the favourites. Wanstead's number 7 Graham Webb and Captain Martin Pluck had other ideas as they repelled all that Brentwood could throw at them. Bainbridge in particular having changed ends was unplayable, yet still could not breach the Wanstead defence. Webb in an effort to stay away from the dangerous Bainbridge played aggressively at one end leaving Pluck to keep out Bainbridge. Despite Brentwood's best efforts they couldn't break the partnership. Webb moved past his half century eventually finishing on a fine 66 not out. Pluck was also unbeaten on 15 as they reached victory with an over remaining.
Wanstead's victory moves them to Premiership safety, whilst Brentwood's faint title hopes have ended.
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3rd September
South Woodford 3rd XI - 235-7
Brentwood 3rd XI - 237-3
Brentwood won by 7 wickets
Report by Ken Lingwood
An overdue excellent all round performance by Brentwood saw them ease their way to victory over South Woodford, who despite being comfortably beaten won the Premier League title as elsewhere Hornchurch's late season capitulation was completed by their second successive nought point game.
On winning the toss South Woodford elected to bat on a flat wicket and quick outfield. Owen Myers opening the bowling for Brentwood gave his teamates the perfect start with two wickets in his first 2 overs. Myers at 16 has matured well the season and looked to at last get his just rewards for a successful campaign. Despite this excellent start South Woodford recovered as Craddock and Joplin made a recovery. As the new ball zip diminished Captain Lingwood took the pace off the ball by introducing 3rd XI debutant Matt Searson and veteran Tony Prior into the attack. Both bowling with accuracy and experience. South Woodford's run rate slowed as they took few chances. Searson in particular was proving most frugal as he toiled in the high temperatures for a full 13 overs before the uncaring Lingwood decided to rest him. His 13 overs although wicketless leaked only 45 runs. Harry Jones replaced the gallant Prior who was clearly suffering in the heat. Jones and Searson kept the run rate well below par, as both Joplin and Craddock gathered their runs in a sedate manner. Clearly South Woodfords tactics were to make sure of maximum batting points, anything beyond that was a bonus.
Myers came back into the attack and immediately took a further 2 wickets. Try as he might Myers was unable to collect his 1st 5 wicket haul, finishing with match figures of 10 overs 1 maiden 4 wickets for 52 runs, an excellent return.
Joplin fell for 82 and Craddock completed an excellent chanceless 101 before being run out. The declaration came in the 51st over with the score on 235.
In reply Brentwood opened their reply with the in form Ash Patel pushed up the order and the out of form Shane Surujbally. Both were to prove the old adage that form is temporary and class is a little more permanent. Patel was bowled for 7 whilst Surujbally played responsibly and with a good deal of concentration. He settled into his innings and soon began to find the boundry as his confidence grew. He was joined by Chris Lawless and the pair laid the South Woodford seamers to waste. Despite surviving an appeal caught behind Lawless went onto complete an entertaining 108. Surujbally looked back to top form only to fall short of his 50 by 2.
The game was there for the taking for Brentwood as Skipper Lingwood joined Lawless, a hundred was required with 24 overs remaining. Lingwood was however well aware of his teams middle order failings this season and played with caution collecting his runs at an even pace. The pair worked well together and soon brought the game to a succesful Brentwood conclusion with 12 overs to spare. Lingwood seeing his team home undefeated on 40.
The comfortable win over the League Champions for the second time this season, makes painful reading for a Brentwood Skipper who sees his side scrapping for a meaningless second place rather than sweeping all before them.
Congratulations to South Woodford who have played by far the most consistent cricket this year. Brentwood's last game of the season see them visit Walthamstow.
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10th September
Walthamstow 3rd XI - 151-7 declared
Brentwood 3rd XI - 155-2
Brentwood won by 8 wickets
Report by Peter Bainbridge
Brentwood brought the curtain down on Ken Lingwood's eight-year captaincy in winning style on Saturday with an emphatic victory that clinched the runners-up spot in the Essex League Premier Division.
Lingwood's reign had taken his side from Division Two to the brink of the Premier Division title for two successive years, a commendable feat, yet his side know they had every chance to send him off into retirement this season with the top prize in his bag. Lingwood has chosen to devote his Saturday afternoons to the old man's game of golf, although occasional guest cricket appearances are threatened when hopefully his famous words of encouragement will again echo round the Old County Ground.
As well as matching feats in the league table, his successor, more importantly, has the task of maintaining the spirit and sense of fair play that have been the hallmarks of the Lingwood years. His example has usually been followed but for those weak few who have chosen to ignore it, hopefully the respect for the opposition evident during the Ashes series will persuade them that the Lingwood way
really is the best.
The successor will perhaps be able to encourage better fielding performances than the one which allowed already-relegated Walthamstow to get past 100 on a sodden pitch at Buckhurst Hill. Seven chances went begging as Brentwood watched Walthamstow edge their way to what might have proved an awkward total against a reasonable attack.
Peter Bainbridge enjoyed conditions reminiscent of those from his moist northern roots by taking five for 45 from 20 overs. Owen Myers bowled a tight opening spell without reward, and there was one wicket apiece for Rob Coote and Harry Jones. The Walthamstow innings, in trouble at 30 for four, was held together by 14-year-old Richard Baughen making his first senior fifty. It ended with thunder and lightning circling the ground as if the gods were showing their unhappiness at Lingwood's retirement, or possibly the mediocre fielding.
The rain that fell during the tea break fortunately swiftly disappeared, allowing the Brentwood openers Dean Goddard and Roger Mahadeo to start promtly and make hay. Goddard led from the front, a position he might have to get used to next season, and was in imperious form, smiting 23 in one over before being forced to depart for 42 after being adjudged lbw with the score on 81.
Lingwood strolled to the crease with his characteristic Viv Richards-esque gait for an innings dripping in poignancy but perhaps overcome by the occasion, took a swing at a straight delivery, missed and was bowled for 13. If Walthamstow had realised the circumstances, they would surely have recalled him and proceeded to bowl half-volleys and long hops until he hit the winning runs. Instead, they bowled half-volleys and long hops to new batsman Chris Lawless, who, along with Mahadeo carved the ball to all corners. The target was quickly overhauled and the Lingwood reign officially ended at 5.54pm. Lawless was unbeaten on 25 and Mahadeo on 68, a fitting way to sign off from the season's two leading batsmen.
Lingwood's exuberant captaincy will be sorely missed by a side unhappy that they were unable to send him off with the title. Brentwood finished 14 points (234 to 220) behind South Woodford, a side they had twice beaten, and were left ruing missed opportunities earlier in the season.
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