U12s v Newhaven

Why do some teams struggle in the league, but do well in the cup?

I guess we should ask Tottenham really, well at least before this year!

Our u12s certainly seem to fit that description. A season of league struggle against some powerful teams in the top division resulted in just one win, but nonetheless valuable experience for the boys. However, today was the first of three festival fixtures against new and unknown opponents, something to look forward to in itself. Today's opponents a friendly and spirited Newhaven side.

A reasonably warm day at the Nevill for once, and Joey Vance won the toss and put the opposition in to bat.

Connor A and Scott M shared the new ball, and made a great start with a wicket apiece in their opening over to give us the early advantage. Newhaven regrouped led by a fine 42 from their skipper, Liam Poulton and the score was into the forties before Tarun took the next wicket, a top edge taken comfortably by Hugo at slip.

Hugo followed this up with a great pick up and direct hit throw to make further in-roads. He also bowled really well, and was very unlucky not to take a wicket, conceding just 8 runs in his five overs. Connor also only went for 10 runs in his 4 overs to keep control of the run rate. Next was Luke coming down the hill to get the vital wicket of Liam. Clean bowled and well deserved! He's really come on well this year in the under 11s and looks comfortable at the higher age group.

Scott returned, bowling a great line at pace to pick up two more, one bowled and a catch well clung onto by Joe D. Tarun also took two more after an unannounced conversion from pace to spin in his second spell which took his manager by surprise for sure!

Joe D and Joe K both bowled tidily , as did Charlie and Travis. Travis also led well in the field, encouraging the bowlers and bringing good energy to the team. Archie also weighed in with his stock dismissal, dead straight ball of the 'you miss I hit' variety.

So half-time and 121 on the board for Newhaven, a reasonable score which required us to bat well to win. We lost Connor early on to some great bowling by Newhaven's quickie, Katie, who produced a testing spell up the hill. Joey and Tarun were in now, and they batted with great confidence and tempo in the partnership that took control of the game. Some great quick singles (a couple of risky ones as well I must add!) , and some well chosen big shots took us towards our target at over 5 an over.

Tarun was eventually caught and bowled by Liam, and the same player turned one past Hugo's defensive push. Still a bit of work to do, but Scott joined the outstanding Joey to play sensibly to avoid any dramas.

Man of the match was Captain Fantastic Joey. He really does look the proper batsman, keeping out the good balls, rotating the strike, and punishing poor deliveries, finishing on 62 not out.

Still plenty of work to do, particularly in the catching department, but overall a great performance by the boys, and we'll look forward to playing Newhaven in the league next season.