Crusaders vs Trull

The crusaders first away game of the season was at a sun drenched Trull CC. Those there were lucky to witness an early miracle skipper John Ponte winning the toss who after careful consideration asked Trull to bat. Early wickets were required and opening bowlers Matt ‘Hoggy’ Kingdom and Robin ‘Lino’ Liney provided 1 each in their opening spells, both bowling superbly well. Jack Damon on his first appearance of the season bowled beautifully for his 1-26 off 7. Wickets fell regularly including 3 run outs, the fielding being superb. The skipper, after being denied a wicket when what appeared to be a straight forward catch to the deep the ball struck an overhead wire and dropped safely to the ground followed in the next over with a cry of help to the good lord finally picked up a wicket to finish with a persevering 1-45. The Trull innings closed 159 all out. Matt Kingdom the pick of the bowlers with 4-17 off his 8.

Tea followed…..

The Crusaders innings never got going at one stage being 13-4 with Toby Stone retired hurt after being struck on the chin. At this stage a total of 30 looked a long way off especially with the tail starting at 7 !!!! A super knock of 32 by Matt Kingdom and a few small bits and pieces took the score to a meagre 76 all out to record a comfortable loss.

With only 3 senior players in the team, all the young lads that played must be given a lot of credit for their positive attitude and desire to play for the badge, it was a privilege to captain them all.

Man of the Match – as tempting as it was for the skipper to be so, for winning a toss at last !!!! there was only one player it could be…..a career best 4-17 and 32…….Matt Kingdom.