Marsh got back on track with an excellent win against a strong Witney Swifts side on a lovely day at the Gibbon.
Swifts chose to bat first on a good track and made full use early on as Charlie Fisher (76) and Jason Seacole punished anything loose, which was made worse, as Marsh (much like the Rob Green) had problems with their handling! Runs came at a steady rate as Swifts looked to put on a big total and at 119-0, Marsh looked for a much needed breakthrough with Crossy and Stevie on the attack. Crossy removed Seacole (44) to get the ball rolling and Marsh never looked back as G-man and Stevo bowled with accuracy to build pressure and take wickets. Swifts were dismissed for 181, with Steve (3-34) and Grant 6-27 returning figures which were to prove vital after Swifts got off to a flier.
A splendid tea was taken, courtesy of the lovely Mrs Chambers, who provided a wonderful array of savouries I must say. I am informed that even Duke sampled a samosa!! Jacob provided good entertainment by finding a handily place coupled of goalposts (the stumps) to play footie against in the centre of the field, which interupted Jules’ fine tea eating display!! Marsh took to the field with the ever reliable opening pairing of Ollie J and Joe. The boys got us off to a steady start, setting a nice platform for the innings. With Ollie going for a useful 20, Joe and Wayne took the innings forward as Joe showed his array of shots through both sides of the wicket. With Wayne gone for 16, Stu (43no) and Joe took Marsh to victory with unbeaten stand of 91. Joe narrowly missed out on his maiden first team century with a majestic 95no, showing his class along the way, whilst really cementing his place as one of Gibbons dangermen at the top of the innings.
A great win was followed up by a lovely bit of tucker courtesy of Marcelle and Jackie (thanks very much ladies), as Marsh settled in to watch the footie, whilst the kids enjoyed their popcorn!
Marsh looked to carry on the good work against Hook Norton on Sunday in the second part of our doubleheader this weekend. Sadly, we were beaten by the weather with the game nicely poised for a good finish. Marsh batted first, posting a good score of 216-4, with Wayne (64) and Stu (47) the main protagonists in a fourth wicket stand of 105.
After a few rain breaks and much deliberation, the constant flow of rain put pay to the game with Hooky 114-1 off 26 overs, but with Marsh building up a head of steam both sides fancied their chances of a positive result, but it wasn’t to be! Marsh took 10 points from the game and a good haul of 40 for the weekend, taking us to fourth place and 7 points off second spot.
Also great to see another new addition (Alex) join the ranks. Welcome along Alex.
Look forward to next weeks game at Letcombe.
Stu
