Chapelfield v Drayton 20th July 2008

Chapelfield 178 Drayton 111-6 Both Saturday teams were abandoned mid match this weekend, due to the heavy localised showers which struck Norfolk so attention instead turned to the UEA on Sunday where Drayton took on Chapelfield. Playing on the third pitch at the UEA (with some extraordinary undulations which conspired to throw batsmen, bowlers and fielders off balance), both sides were also faced with a strong wind and, despite being mid July, a distinct lack of sunshine and warmth. That Drayton were defeated in itself is not a massive disapointment (after the start to the season, fielding a side, giving youngsters experience in match situations and enjoying cricket are the primary goals), however bowling 36 wides and 3 no balls is inexcusable by any side. Therefore, instead of restricting Chapelfield to a manageable total of around 140, Drayton were instead chasing 179. Highlights in the field for Drayton were some impressive bowling from Rob Raven (1-35 from 10 overs), Ryan Pointer (2-17 from 6) and Mat Norman, who overcame a difficult start to take 4-45 from 10. Wicketkeeper Jason Trett also took 3 catches, and young Tom Barnes in particular took the eye with a gutsy display of ground fielding..

In reply, Tim Woods and Philip Wright gave Drayton a solid base, however when both fell in quick succession it always looked a tall order for Drayton to chase down 179, especially with Jason Trett rendered unable to bat. Tony Gregory rolled back the years, combining deft flicks with some lusty blows as he guided young Tom Radford to his first runs for the club. Following Radford's dismissal, Rob Raven survived a strong LBW shout first ball (and the potential of what would have been a third successive golden duck), and went on to score a rapid 14. Captain Warren Kedge, like Raven facing a hattrick of golden ducks, also survived and was looking in good touch - playing some fine straight drives when the match drew to a tame conclusion. Despite the heavy looking nature of the defeat on paper - this was a performance with many positives which need to be built on in the remainder of the season - and with more discipline in the bowling this can be achieved!