KEMPTON CRICKET CLUB MATCH REPORT

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Another 40 over match was called for and after the Long Ditton skip called incorrectly Mackay decided to insert the opposition on what looked to be a good track. What a difference a week makes as Ks got off to a great start with Joel on the money from the start. The tone for the afternoon was set when Ellis took a great one-handed catch in the gully to dismiss the Ditton opener. Hendo chipped in to dismiss the No.3 and with tight bowling (17 coming from Joel's 6 overs and 18 from Mark's 8 overs), great fielding we kept the run rate down. Mackay (1-21 from 8) and Makwana (1-17 from 6)came into the attack and continued the tight bowling. With the track taking spin a double change Loveridge and Ward came into the attack and both saw immediate success. Danny posting figures of 3-4 from 5 overs (! including Danny bowling Ditton's No.8 with a beamer) and Andy returning 3-24 from his 5 (including a no bowl and a half tracker that he apologised for while the ball was on its way to the batsman). This bowling display had Ditton all out for 107 from 38 overs.

One note on another great fielding display, helped when you can have your covers patrolled by 3 from Ward, Porter, Blair and Loveridge. There were a few chances that did go to ground: chances that are teething problems before the cup and league starts.

For such a low total it can be difficult to get motivated and once again Ks made tough work of the chase. Ellis lasted two balls and each of the top four failed to get into double figures. Fortunately the calm head of Charlie (21) and Hendo (24 n.o.) steadied the ship with Joel joining Hendo to complete the victory with Ks scoring the required 108 runs of only 22 overs. We were fortunate to have 18 byes in the total that made the case easier.