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2011 Seniors Season...The Story So Far

Gresford Cricket Club

April

 

16th April—Pre Season Friendly vs. St. Asaph (A) - This game once again provided a useful workout for all. The result; we lost. However, notable performances from Andy Thomas (26 including one huge six) and Alex Ellwood’s wicket keeping are worth a mention.

 

23rd April—1st XI vs Conwy (A) - The opening 1st XI fixture at Conwy started in grey and cold conditions with occasional light drizzle. This, after the driest, warmest March/ April for many years! Skipper Ellwood inserted the home side, who narrowly missed out on 2nd place last season, on a green wicket. Good Bowling and ground fielding as well as some poor catching featured as the hosts declared on 181/8 off 52 overs. In reply, six batsmen reached doubles figures. Sean Richards top-scored with 49 (to add to his 3 wickets in the Conwy innings—a good day!). Other points of note include the valuable contribution of debutant Danny Williams and the glove work of Matty Cree….and the first six by Gresford…..JB! Scorecard

 

30.4.11/2.5.11 2nds vs Llangollen (A)/ Conwy (H) - The bank holiday sunshine saw the seconds play their first two games of the season On Saturday against Llangollen 1sts they were well beaten. After reaching 164 for 9 (Ian Weaver 40 the top scorer). Llan `s reply  of 165 for 5 was reached in just 29 overs. Mondays game at G`ford against Conwy was a much better performance...in all areas. Conwy reached 162 for 9 (Gareth Bell 4 wks, James Williams 3 wks) G`ford`s reply started well with 58 run opening stand between Steve Griffin who retired hurt on 31no, he was well supported by Jack Bunkell (24). Gareth Bell`s 26 and Henry Makings excellent 39no took G`ford to a 5 wk win. (teas were good too!) Scorecards

 

May

 

3rd May—The Midweek XI got their season underway with a resounding win over MP Plumbing. Danny Williams managed to drive the oppositions openers round the u-bend with 3 quick wickets. MP Plumbing totalling 83 off their 20. In reply, the plumbers failed to remove the blockage that was Gresford’s opening pair, Arthur Thomas (51*) and David Baker (36*) - A ten wicket win! Scorecard

 

7th May Halkyn vs 1sts—Morning rain meant a delayed start, G`ford were asked to bat first and after the loss of an early wk, good stands of 69 (J.Bell and C.Ellwood 26) and 47 (Bell and S Richards 47) allowed G`ford to set 198. Bell finished on 73 with Sean Richards reaching his maiden first team fifty in 50 balls! Well done to Sean. Halkyn`s reply never really got going. Four bowlers shared the wks..2 each.....D. Williams, J Bell, S Richards and G Bell (his first at this level). A winning draw for G`ford ( by 106 runs!). Scorecard

 

Meanwhile, at Clappers lane Gresford invited Mochdre 2nds to bat on damp looking wicket. Inconsistent bowling meant the Colwyn Bay outfit reached 227. Matt Daulby was the pick of the Gresford bowlers recording figures of 2/44 off 10 overs. Gresford were immediately in trouble losing 6 wickets in the first 12 overs, however J.Griffin (24) and S.Perry (49*) managed to frustrate the visitors finishing one run short of a point. Scorecard

 

12th May— The Midweek XI beat Carmel by 41 runs at Pen-y-gelli. Gresford struck 112/6 batting first. Craig Morse with a hard fought 34 (inc only 2 boundaries), Jack Bunkell a brisk 18 and Ian Weaver and ‘scampered’ (in his own words) 17* were the main contributors. In reply, Paddy Richards struck with his first ball removing Carmel’s Croatian international Davidovic, on his way to figures of 3 overs 3 maidens 3 for 0! Carmel finished on 71. Scorecard

 

14th May - A double header against Llanrwst provided the captains with numerous headaches, not least the unavailability of players (injuries to the old ones, school matches and exams the young ones and other things as well). The 1st at home were completely out of sorts being bowled out for just 56. Only Craig Morse showed any resistance scoring a patient 25. The bowlers led by skipper Ellwood (3 for26) did rally taking 5 Llanrwst wickets.

 

At Llanrwst it was the rain that won. Gresford manages 103 off 30 overs with Ian Weaver (52no) and Nicky Clare (17) dominating the scoring. Llanrwst were on 70 for 2 when the rain stopped play, however with just a few overs remaining the result was still in the balance.

 

Wednesday saw Gresford host Chester Asians XI, the top of the table clash saw the Asian’s post an imposing 174 (Simon Perry 2-26 off 4). Gresford knew that on a true surface with a short boundary the total was chase-able. Chris Ellwood launched a ferocious assault on the Asian bowlers; smashing 85 not out from just 48 balls, ably supported by Danny Williams who scored 40 in equally quick time. Scorecard

 

21st May

 

1sts vs. Menai Bridge 2nds (A). Big hitting from last weeks midweek match continued into the weekend for both teams. Chris Ellwood continued his fine early season form blasting 65 not out alongside brother Alex who hit 69 not out. The pair helped Gresford to beat the rain and chase down 153 in just 25 overs to beat Menai and the rain! Earlier the hosts had been restricted to 149 (Chris Ellwood 3-22, Sean Richards 4-40 and Jack Bunkell 2-19). Scorecard

 

The 2nds played host to Abergele 2nds. Simon Perry (3-33) and James Williams (12 overs for 40) made sure the visitors made a quiet start to their innings. However some late hitting took the sea-siders to 179. In reply, Gresford lost their first 5 wickets for just 76 and seemed in deep trouble before James Griffin (26no) helped to steady the ship allowing George Morris (64no from 8 overs) to leave the away team well and truly shell shocked. A terrific knock, well done George! Scorecard

 

28th May

 

1sts v Bangor II’s (H) Sean Richards continued his fine form with the ball as he struck three times in the opening overs to reduce Bangor to 6 for 3. Both openers bowled tightly as Bangor’s total after 15 overs was less than 20. Bangor Rallied to 156/9 with Richards returning to finish on 5/21. Chris Ellwood (2/29), Paddy Richards (2/34) and the ’spin’ of Matty Cree (1 wicket) the other wicket takers. In reply, Daniel Williams hit a fine 49, punishing anything loose. Arthur Thomas (50*) and Chris Ellwood (32*) finished the job to move Gresford to 4th in the table. Scorecard

 

2nds v Bethesda (A) Nicky Clare was the star of the show as Gresford made short work of Bethesda. Clare bowled 12 overs picking up 6 for 28. He was supported by Joe Benson (3 wickets) and Gareth Bell, who removed the dangerous Robbie Creek. Chasing down the hosts modest total of 61, Gresford lost only Joe Benson as they won by 9 wickets to record a 9-1 points split. This moves Gresford to 5th in the table. Scorecard

 

29th May

 

Friendly XI v Irby (A) - Arriving 10 minutes before the start meant the Irby team had already had a decent session in the bar. In particular the opening batsmen who didn't let 6 bottles of Corona stop him from reaching 50. Simon Perry came on to make inroads into the Irby top order taking 3/20. Ian Baker continued this good work with 2 wickets. Owain Walker and Cameron Murdoch also bowling well. Irby’s 197 looked like it was going to take some chasing. However, some good stroke play David Baker (31) and Cameron Murdoch (50 ret) set the tone. The tory sounding partnership of David and Cameron however didn’t produce as many cuts as you would expect (sorry!). Simon Perry also retired on 50, leaving the crease with 14 needed off 3 overs. Matt Daulby held his nerve with 5 needed of the last over, hitting a six off the penultimate ball to finish unbeaten on 38. Irby were terrific hosts, providing jugs of beer after the match. This favour will have to be returned in the reverse fixture—I think we’ll need to get saving as they plan to arrive on a coach!! Scorecard 

 

Saturday 4th June

Gresford`s youngsters (10 of them plus MKR!)....the first team travelled to Bersham. Gareth Bell took the first 3 wickets, including the prize of Bersham`s skipper. The remaining wickets were shared to restrict the home side to just 87. Alex Ellwood (48no) and Danny Williams (34no) knocked off the runs in less than an hour!

Meanwhile back at Gresford the seconds were entertaining league leaders Carmel. At 23 for 4 things looked bleak for the home side. However Ian Weaver`s excellent 85 with good support from George Morris (15), Manishe (26) and stand in skipper James Williams (15) allowed  Gresford to set 177 for 9. Carmel`s reply started with Fraser Murdoch bowling their opening bat first ball!! However, the remaining bats managed to take Carmel to a 2 wicket win with James` bowling offering the only real challenge to the away side (he finished with 4 for 39 off 12 overs).

 

Sunday 5th June.—Gresford took a young side to Knockin (9 players aged 18 or under) and bowled well to restrict the hosts to 170 (Tomos Williams with 2 wickets). In reply, Gresford were steady without being spectacular James Griffin, Harry Morris and Sam Cooper all applying themselves well. The game will have provided Harry and Sam with great experience. It also provided Les with his first double figure score since 2007 (or so we’re told!). Gresford finshed their innings 50 runs short of Knockin’s total.

 

Tuesday 7th June— Two teams out on a Tuesday night—madness! Well done to Chris Ellwood and Craig Morse for finding 22 players for two midweek games. Two victories as well—one team overcoming Overton in the Les Tunnah Cup and another defeating Westminster Park in the midweek league.

 

Sat 11th June Following a mid morning hail storm B`sda 1st did`nt hesitate to ask G`ford to bat. After a steady start wks fell quickly (batsmen 4,5 & 6 all for a duck) to the homeside at 54 for 5. Skipper Ellwood then took over with an excellent 78 well supported by the latter batsmen in particular D. Baker (38). A last wk partnership between the old and young Richards` (22) took the score to a respectable 190 for 9 dec off 44 overs. In reply B`sda wks fell regularly with Paddy richards the star performer with 4 wk for 30 runs. A good catch was apparantly taken at short leg!     

 

At Shotton Steelworks ground Corus were asked to bat and posted 202 for 9. James Williams again the pick of the bowlers with 4 wks. The seconds reply was stopped on 184 for 4 with good contributions from Weaver (38) Clare (27), Morris (27), Cruise (45no) and Williams (35no). Sadly they finished just short!

 

Wednesday 15th June— Gresford posted 129/9 against a good Heberians side—Special mention for Jack Bunkell’s batting. In reply, Alex Moreton bowled well to help restrict the home team to 120—a 9 run win takes undefeated Gresford to the top of the table ahead of the return match next week.

 

Sat 18th June The 1sts travelled to Llay and were quickly bowled out for 77 which Llay duly passed for the loss of just 2 wks. Enough said.

 

Meanwhile back at G`ford, the homesides bowlers restricted Castell Alun to 99 all out, James Williams 3 for 11 off 10 the best figures. A 50+ opening stand between Ian Weaver (who finished 44no) and Gareth Bell (27) led to a comfortable 8 wk win with Fraser Murdoch finishing 19no.

 

Sunday 19th June The Sunday Eleven travelled to our `old` friends at Fenn`s Bank. The home side after opting to bat raced to 245 for 5 off 40 overs......bowling figures of the ten bowlers used are not worth publishing! G`ford`s steady reply was led by James Giffin (45) and senior player Dave McCarthy (39). At 100 for 5 off 25 overs a G`ford win looked unlikely. However a stand of 145 in 13 overs between Gareth Bell (77no) and skipper Matt Daulby (42no) gave G`ford an entertaining win......it really was good to watch! 

 

The midweek team kept up their 100% record with a win over Heberians. The win was looking unlikely until Fraser Murdoch (50*) and Paddy Richards (20 odd no) got together to see Gresford home after an early wobble.

 

25th June A disappointing bowling performance allowed Llandudno to reach 194 off 52 overs with only debutant Steve Lloyd showing any control (13 overs 3wks for 21 runs), The 1sts reply started well with Danny Williams (79) and Jack Bunkell (27) taking control. Wks then fell quickly as Llandudno threatened to pull off a shock win. Sensible batting by David Baker (28no) who was well supported by the one armed bandit (Ritchie Eccles) took G`ford to a 2 wkt victory.

 

Meanwhile at Bersham the 2nd enjoyed  (near) 200 run victory. Ian Weaver`s ton and Fraser Murdoch`s 50 led the way ......222 for 4 we finished. Wks fell quickly leaving the Bersham capt with more than one headache (sorry!). Skipper James W finished with the remarkable figs of 5 overs, 4 mds, 2 runs and 5 wks!) Ten - nil!

 

The Midweek XI were victorious over Westminster Park on Thursday. Cameron Murdoch (89*) saw Gresford to 157 and Simon Perry’s 4-8 saw the hosts halted on 47.

 

July

 

2nd July—The 1sts went to Northop as 2nd in the table met 3rd. Gresford made 227/6 declared with Matty Cree (68) and Alex Ellwood (64) finding some good form. Chris Ellwood (25) and Joe Benson (28no) also helped to bolster the total. Northop were always in the hunt with the top 6 making good contributions. However, Paddy Richards produced an inspired spell to send Northop packing for 205. Richards taking 4-35.

 

At Gresford the 2nds produced a fine performance to beat Llandudno 3rds. Batting first Gresford made 248, the highest score for any Gresford team this season. Fraser Murdoch led the way with 70, George Morris a half century and Ian Weaver 42. In reply, Llandudno got to 159 with the bowlers sharing the wickets—Gareth Bell picking up 3/39.

 

On Sunday, the friendly XI travelled to Upton who managed to post 224/4. We have a weak batting line after number 6 they said before the toss. Ian Crumplin and Fraser Murdoch bowled a tight opening spell to restrict the home team. Good contributions from Andy Thomas, Murdoch and James Griffin saw Gresford reach a respectable 198 in reply.

 

Midweek saw Gresford overcome a spirited Gwersyllt side who made 132 batting first. Skipper Craig Morse showing the bowlers how its done with 4-9. Gresford seemed in trouble at 46-4 and their 100% record in danger before Craig Morse (62*) and George Morris (40) got together and put the game beyond Gwersyllt.

 

9th July

 

1sts v Conwy (H). In another top of the table clash 3rd place Gresford took on 4th place Conwy. Steady contributions from many of the Conwy batsmen saw them reach 216. Gareth Bell the most economical of the bowlers, his 12 overs costing 41. Steve Lloyd chipped in with 3 wickets. Gresford lost Ellwood (A), Cree and Williams early on and 40 from Arthur Thomas, and twenties from Morse and Ellwood (C) could not prevent defeat.

 

2nds v Conwy (A) - Captain Williams won the toss and decided to do…..errm….nothing. “We’ll let you know in a minute” he said to the Conwy skipper. The delay—two Griffin brothers lost deep in the Gwynedd countryside! Williams gambled on the pair arriving by half 1 and elected to field. A short boundary and a sunny day meant that runs came quickly. However, Simon Perry came on and strung 29 dot balls together to halt the hosts. At the other end the captain continued his knack of picking up wickets by the shedload, 6-45 off ten, whilst being sledged by most of his own team! Nicky Clare also bowled tightly 1-35 off 12. Gresford showed how easy batting was as they knocked off the 194 runs needed for victory in just 31 overs. Fraser Murdoch in the runs once again with a flawless 69 not out.

 

Friendly vs Gwersyllt (A). Struck by a spate of late withdrawals Gwersyllt fielded a very inexperienced XI. However, it was a good chance for Harry Morris, Sam Cooper and Chris Mullock to get used to the longer format of the game. All did well, Morris (28 and 4 wickets), Cooper (3/16—I won’t tell Neil Ellwood how you got out!) and Mullock, at 13 years old, a half century in Senior cricket. A well made 54, well done Chris. Gareth Bell also made 52 not out and Owain Walker bowled well picking up 2 wickets.

 

16th July

 

1st v Chirk (A). Batting first stand in skipper Alex Ellwood led the way with a half century, however he would’ve been disappointed not to go on and make a ton. Good support from Craig Morse saw Gresford to 136-3 at one point, but a collapse saw Gresford bowled out for 161. This was around 40 runs shy of a competitive total as Chirk reached the total 4 wickets down.

 

2nds v Llangollen (H). After electing to bat on a decent looking track Llangollen were looking to post an imposing total. However, a good all round bowling effort from Gresford saw them bowled out for 81. Nicky Clare 3 wickets, Simon Perry 3 wickets and Fraser Murdoch with 4 wickets the only bowlers used by Gresford. In reply Ian Weaver 30 not out and Rory Benson 37 saw Gresford to a 9-1 victory.

 

21st July—Crunch time for the midweek team as they played 2nd place Chester Asians in a winner takes all clash. Things looked bleak as Gresford were bowled out for just 81. However, the hosts seemed to want to chase down the total in a hurry and lost early wickets to big shots against the Gresford slow bowling. Paddy Richards, Danny Williams and Gareth Bell then bowled tightly to stop the home team firmly in their tracks. The innings closed on 63-9 off 20 overs.

 

23rd July.  1sts v Halkyn (H) The firsts got back to winning ways with a comprehensive victory over Halkyn. Excellent spells from Danny Williams 3-17, Paddy Richards 2-31 and Alex Ellwood 3-18 meant Halkyn were restricted to 156 from 52 overs. Gresford chased the runs down with minimal fuss, Alex Ellwood 76 not out and Matty Cree 45 not out ensuring a 9 wicket win.

 

2nds vs Mochdre (A) - The 2nd team arrived an hour late at Mochdre in what was a 2nd vs 3rd clash. Batting first Gresford were indebted to a first wicket partnership of 130 between Ian Weaver (77) and Rory Benson (57). A mini collapse had Gresford worried until a classy half century from Henry Makings saw Gresford to 235. In reply, Gresford again bowled well as a unit. Nicky Clare (1-34) and Simon Perry (2-27) frustrating the Mochre batsmen. Cruise took 3 wickets at the death to seal a 47 run victory.

 

Midweek v Carmel (H). An opening burst from Paddy Richards and Jack Bunkell left Carmel in a position they never really recovered from with Arthur Thomas and Craig Morse batting well to secure a ten wicket victory.