U14 A v Oakham

Result: Lost by 71 runs

Review: Gale force winds did not make for easy cricket playing conditions. Ably marshalled by Simon Holme, Felsted put in a competitive performance in the field to restrict a powerful Oakham batting line up to 137-6 off the allotted 25 overs. Some of the out-cricket was brilliant and Will Stonham almost pulled off the ‘catch of the century’, diving full length to his left to try and grasp the ball one handed. A few overs later, Sam Hanikene took an excellent catch running back at mid off, off the bowling of Charlie Sturge. Another highlight was a brilliant pick up and throw by Stefan Warner at fine leg to achieve a run out. Simon Holme and Charlie Sturge in particular bowled tightly despite the unhelpful conditions and only in the last five overs of the innings did the Oakham batsmen really begin to dictate terms. Unfortunately, the Felsted top order was blown away in the first 8 overs and there was no way back once the scoreboard read 18-5. Some injudicious strokes did play a part in the collapse, but equally credit must be given to the Oakham pace attack who maintained a really full and attacking length, putting the Felsted batsmen under a great deal of pressure. Charlie Sturge and Sam Hanikene then shared a good partnership of 33 for the 6^th wicket but the damage had already been done and when Charlie perished, rightly trying to move the score along, the end was nigh and Felsted were eventually all out for 66.