MATCH REPORT - COLTS Under 11

Match played on Sunday 23rd May 2004

Blackheath Under 11 (241) lost to Godalming Under 11 (272) by 31 runs

There were lots of positives for us in this game, not least the beautiful weather, and in the end we were only two "if only"s away from victory. "If only" our first two pairs hadn't lost 5 wickets between them (at a cost of 20 runs), and "if only" we hadn't allowed the second Godalming pair to take so many quick singles (about 15) then things would have been very close indeed. These are two things for us to work on before next time.

Thomas Richardson captained well. He used his voice on the field very effectively to make it clear who was in charge and to keep his fielders alert without overdoing the volume or talking rubbish, as so many adult captains do nowadays I'm afraid to say. This is a difficult skill. Keep at it, Thomas.

Batting:-

Innings of the day came from Stanley Verkaik, who defended carefully against the quickest, most accurate Godalming bowler before hitting out against the lesser bowlers for a total of 9 runs. Ben Hodges also deserves a mention for two beautiful pull shots for 4 through square leg, as does Sam Dobson who's stylish offside play, with beautiful high elbow, will soon start earning him lots of runs. Alex Goddard was disappointed to lose a couple of wickets but actually he has the best defensive technique in the team, which will eventually pay dividends.

Bowling:-

Bowling analysis of the day belonged to Toby Webb who bowled 2 overs, took one wicket and didn't concede a run, apart from one wide. Ben Hodges is the genuine inswing bowler in the team. Keep bowling left-arm over the wicket Ben, not round, and you WILL take wickets I assure you. Harry Giles also bowled a wicket maiden. Most improved bowler of the week was Luke Matthews who was a bit erratic last week but this time came back with much more rhythm and accuracy, together with some bounce and pace.

Fielding:-

Fielder of the day was Robert Moorcroft who was lively and alert throughout, reading the game well and always throwing in quickly and to the right end.

Finally, all-rounder of the day was Matthew Parton. Playing only his second match he was only out once (better than most of them did when they started), bowled a very tidy over and worked efficiently in the field where the ball seemed to follow him around.

I'm looking forward to the next match on Friday June 4th.

Regards,

Graham