That’s a fine performance in the field though as once again the side failed
to live up to expectations when brandishing the willow. Usual number 11
Marc Connolly was promoted to open the innings when Salfords were invited
to bat first by the hosts.

Salfords made a rapid start putting on 46 in the opening 6 overs but when
Tony Palmer was removed and then run machine Rob Besley fell for two the
advantage in innings swung in favour of Claygate. A repeat of last weeks
middle order collapse, Steve Harrington (18) aside, left Salfords clinging
on for dear life but then Ian Catt who batted with great style for a fine
33  joined together with Connolly who made a classy 58 to lead the Salfords
recovery. Still despite the previous pairs efforts Salfords were woefully
short of runs but the 31 added by Dave Lancester and Mark Wood at least
added some respectability to the score as the innings ended on 172 for 8 at
the end of 45 overs. Lane and Vincent picked up four wickets a piece for
Claygate.

Claygate made a steady start but couldn’t really breakaway against some
tight bowling particularly against the accuracy of Graeme Stewart who
conceded just 12 runs off his opening spell of nine overs. Although runs
were scarce Salfords were becoming frustrated that they couldn’t make a
breakthrough. Suddenly though wickets started to tumble with a good mix of
tight bowling and excellent ground fielding.

Ian Catt was busy at gulley as he snaffled three smart catches. Nelson’s
111 struck for Claygate as they lost their sixth wicket at that fateful
score and despite the brave efforts of Vincent (26) Salfords marched on to
victory.

Tony Palmer was the pick with three wickets including a fabulous caught and
bowled to wrap up the match by a 26 run margin in favour of the visitors.

Scorecard at www.salfords.play-cricket.com