The Mogs arrived at Tadworth somewhat surprised to be playing considering the forecast from earlier in the week, however thankfully the rain did not fall although the temperature was more akin to a February afternoon than one in late May.
Andy won the toss, and based on last week's strong bowling performance and the fact that Tadworth wanted to play a 40 over game, inserted the oppo with the hope of restricting the hosts to a similar score to last week.
Joe and Andy Hoad opened up and the skipper got his wish as after 12 overs Tadworth were 30 without loss, with both bowlers unlucky not to have taken a wicket as they utilised the conditions very well, not giving the batsmen any width. Charlie and Jimmy replaced Andy and Joe, and the 1st wicket arrived when the Tadworth opener thought he would take on Tharpy's arm from the boundary and was run out after Andy hit the stumps with a direct hit.
The Mogs were fielding very well in the 1st 20, which ended with Tadworth 69-2, Jimmy getting the other opener caught by Ben at midwicket. The new batsmen realised that they had to up the tempo, and they did this in the next 20 overs, scoring 128 runs in 20 overs for the loss of 4 wickets. Ben ended with 3 catches (should have been 4) and Tadworth finished on 197-6. The Mogs left the field realising that they should have restricted the hosts to a lower score, 30 extra's and a few lucky let off's for the batsmen didn't help.
Tea was good as usual, homemade lemon cake, coffee cake and flapjacks were very welcome, but not as much as the tea as by now everyone was suffering from the onset of frostbite!
Peter Furner and Tom Ovenall (good potential loan signing from Priory) opened the innings, however local knowledge and a touch more luck for Tadworth meant that they were soon back in the pavilion with the score 6-2 after 7 overs. Richard Moss and Ben steadied the ship against some tight bowling and added 60 runs in the next 13 overs before Richard was caught trying to up the tempo for a well made 22. Mike and Jimmy both came and went cheaply and after 25 overs the Mogs found themselves 81-5 needing 117 off 15 at almost 8 an over. Andy Tharp joined Ben, and realising the situation began to put the pressure on Tadworth through quick singles and boundaries. The reintroduction of the Tadworth left arm spinner changed the game in favour of Tadworth however, as Ben was out for a well made 78 after he and Andy had added 63 runs in quick time. Andy was out for 31, and despite Charlie, Joe, Andy Hoad and Will trying to reach the target we fell 20 runs short.
Plenty of Doom was drunk in the new bar, and our hosts congratulated on their win. Huge thanks go to Allan Lewis who resembled Scott of the Antarctic whilst scoring, to John our umpire who I am sure has not stood in such conditions for a while, and the numerous supporters who came along to watch the game, we really do appreciate all of your efforts. We now travel the short distance to Merstham to try to retain the Matthew Lewis Memorial trophy, I understand that it might be warmer (it can't get much colder that's for sure!!) and we look forward to many coming down to enjoy their new clubhouse.
report by Andy Tharp
MWCC Stats