The 2016 season drew to a close with our annual trip to Tilford.
Winning the toss and batting first on a green wicket, Geoff dug in after the early loss of Stu as Tilford's two left armers made the most of some bounce in the wicket and gentle movement through the air. Ably assisted by Nigel, they put on 125 in the next 30 odd overs on a wicket that was not easy to score on.
Geoff was eventually dismissed for a hard earned 88 and Jem's late barrage saw us post a competitive score.
After a good tea, Jonny and Jason bowled well as the openers struggled to get the ball away. A smart stumping by Max made the early breakthrough we needed.
The other opener "dropped anchor" seemingly intent on surviving against Jonny whilst the number three looked to be more positive (and the hosts best chance of challenging our score). A sharp catch from Max saw him depart as Jason was replaced by Jem.
After a flurry of boundaries, Jem turned the game firmly in our favour with a hat-trick including a sharp one handed catch off his bowling and Stu taking a catch at short leg on the third ball.
Stu, fielding short, took a heavy blow on the head from the opener, thankfully the helmet took the brunt of the force to save serious injury.
Matt and Bomber tried without success to take wickets before Jonny and Jason returned as the overs ran out.
Their opener finally picked out Justin after over forty overs of defiance as our hosts held on for a draw.