Chitika

Monday 30 May 2011

Vouchers

Please send your Tesco and Sainsburys vouchers to me as soon as possible - they need to be counted and sent off by the middle of June!

They really do make a difference people, so get them put in the relevant box at the club!

Sunday 29 May 2011

29.5.11 - U16s v Bognor

Worthing 144 for 3 off 25 overs beat Bognor by 40 runs, 104 all out after 24.1 overs

An overcast morning with the very occasional light shower saw Worthing start the game after being invited to bat by the visitors. After an early loss, some expansive hitting from Harry Dunn, 30 no, Daniel Stuart, 30 no and Nick Ballamy, 32no, generating a total of 17 boundaries between them, saw three successive retirements as Worthing eased passed the 100 mark in the 20th over. Joe Ashmore was the pick of the Bognor bowlers going for just 16 off 5 overs trying to keep a lid on things, but some sprightly runs from the bats of Ollie Carpenter, Sam Wookey and James Allen towards the end got Worthing's total up to an impressive 144 for just 3 down at the close.

Bognor got off to sticky start and were already 3 wickets down in the 5th over as Bradley Lewis opened up with an impressive first spell. Alex Cooper lead a fine rearguard action for Bognor claiming his own retirement score, but the introduction of Mason Crane's leg-spin was the catalyst for the demise of the lower order. Cooper returned in the late innings but when he was out for the 10th wicket for 33, Bognor's total was still 40 runs shy of Worthing's. Bradley and Mason shared the same figures of 4 for 16 off 5 overs, capping a good all-round performance by Worthing in the field.

Scorecard

28.5.11 - 3rd XI v Barns Green 1st XI

Another game where the result should have been so different, but in a cricketing version of Groundhog Day (With B. Murray occupying numbers 1 to 7 of the Worthing batting line up), the runs just weren't forthcoming.

The visitors were inserted by skipper Jim Aylen and his decision was well justified as they were rolled for just 134, but even that was a little more than they should have got with a last wicket stand of about 30.

And so it proved costly as Worthing's batting collapsed to just 118, and that was partly down to some stubborn resistance from Dan Stuart.

The talent is there but the batters are going to have to start firing soon.

Scorecard

28.5.11 - 1st XI v Bexhill

The previous week's defeat to Ifield was quickly sent packing as the team got back the winning formula against a youthful and useful Bexhill side, freshly relegated from the Premier league, and hence without the services of Monty Panesar this season.

The visitors won the toss and elected to bat, but struggled to get on top of an accurate Worthing attack on what appeared to be a batter-friendly surface and outfield. Tim Hambridge was the mainstay of the Bexhill innings with a watchful 109, with Andy Lutwyche belying his veteran status to claim 4 for 56 from 21 unchanged overs, most of the runs coming through back square leg off Hambridge, and Benn Challen continued his good form with the ball by taking 3 for 43. Bexhill finished on 187 for 9.

In reply Ben Chambers once again proved difficult to remove with 58 valuable runs, with contributions from skipper Michale Gould (24), Challen (25) and the returning Darryl Rebbetts (33), but it was left to Andy Reid and Lutwyche to take the hosts over the line with an over to spare and 4 wickets in hand.

Worthing return to the promotion positions after a week's absence.

Scorecard

28.5.11 - 2nd XI v Pulborough 2nd XI

Worthing consolidated their position as league leaders with a four-wicket victory at Pulborough. The highlight was a superb spell of 9 for 49 from Stuart Carter (he joins Paul Westlake and Andy Lutwyche in the "9 for" club), as the home side collapsed from a promising base, led by skipper Paul Allen's 61, to be dismissed for 154, inside 39 overs. After Worthing had been reduced to 32 for 3 in reply, Carter then joined forces with David Rogers in a commanding partnership of 115. A late flurry of wickets made the final margin of victory slightly deceptive.

Scorecard 

28.5.11 - 4th XI v Barns Green 2nd XI

Morning all Juggernaughts out there, welcome to Sunday morning and Juggernaught FM.
Well, we keep on rolling on. On a non typically May day we went to play at tricky opposition Barns Green. We took a depleted side from previous weeks and had two strike bowlers missing and 2 main batters. We spoke about a plan and we favoured chasing down anything Barns Green could set based on it being a good track. We talked about establishing, quickly, a plan against each opposition batter and executing that plan.
Barns Green got off to a flyer. We realised that, today, length wasn't the priority it was going to be line. Barns batters punished anything with width and did it well. Barns young opener proved quickly why he is a new talent and has scored heaps this season already. Worthing started tightening up the line and it proved the key. from 51-0 they were 4 down within a few overs. At this point I must congratulate Barns Green on their fairness in umpiring and giving what they see. We have experienced too many games where this is not the case leading to the wrong attitudes being applied. This was a game played in the best spirits and made it very enjoyable to be part of. barns kept chipping at the score and forming little partnerships that got them to 214 but I thought this was a low score for the quality of this pitch and because of our efforts to take wickets throughout we took 4 overs so had 49 to chase them down.
After an EXCELLENT tea we started the chase. We spoke about the getting at least half the job done at no more than 2 down then we'd be in full control. Lloyd seemed a little disconnected and played a lazy shot, by his standards and drove a full toss to cover. After last weeks fantastic innings I think this week Aaron thought he'd get the job done on 15 overs and after a couple of positive shots off their opening spinner fell to a loose shot by his standards. Matt P played across a straight one and before we knew it we were 3 down for not many. It was great to have Matt Martin back and Matt and BC formed a partnership that did the main work. Matt batted very sensibly, taking runs when offered and solid in defence. We got to within 45 when he unfortunately fell. That brought Rob Cool in. Rob took a couple of overs to take a look and then with only about 20 needed bludgeoned 13 off one over to take us home 4 down.
It was a good learning curve today. We learnt how to bowl on a flat track. We learnt that line was key. With the right line we could choke and frustrate the batters which paid dividends.
Not everyone got to play what they would deem as part of the team effort but they certainly did. Jake Robinson (the arm) patrolled the sweeping boundary superbly. Even got his body in the road of one that could have smashed his teeth out. Sam Greenrod also fielded with aplomb. He also learns amazingly quickly. After one piece of on field coaching to help the fielding he applied it for the rest of the innings after being shown once. He's like a computer the way he can absorb information and process to apply it. Fielding should not be underestimated. It saves runs, takes wickets, applies pressure and contributes to winning and losing. The Juggernaught remain top of the league after today so everyone will be gunning for us which in turn will give us a new set of challenges here on in. I have every confidence that we will rise to the occasion and will continue to make it a memorable season.

28.5.11 - 5th XI v Rustington 2nd XI

Back to winning ways in a good match on a very windy day that could have gone either way. An unpredictable pitch not helping batting for either team.
 
We started by losing the toss and being put in to bat.
Things didn't start well with Glenn Harris out fourth ball. But J.Quintais (17 from 41 balls) was looking good until he got a ball that kept low. A.Bastable (30 from 94 balls) played steadily and kept the innings together. N.Harris (12) out from a good quick stumping and was a bit unlucky. A.Squires (30 from 43 balls) settled in and helped get us back into the game. The other wickets fell at regular intervals and we ended up 130 all out with the lower order doing the job to get us to 4 batting points. J.Walker taking (4 for 20).
 
We knew we had to be aggressive in the field and put good pressure on Rustington early who had 50 overs to bat needing 131 to win.

Greg Harris was back on form taking a great (7 for 23) including catches from N.Harris and A.Squires from balls skied from top edges. J.Belton (1-34) bowled well keeping the pressure on to support Greg. J.Westlake (0-7) came on near the end and bowled well and created another run out opportunity which Greg took well to get the last wicket. C.Mann batted well (34 from 64 balls) put up the only real Rustington resistance. Everyone did their part and fielded well to create the pressure required and we ended up bowling Rustington out for 65 to secure a great victory and another 24 points towards our title campaign.

Scorecard 

Tuesday 24 May 2011

21.5.11 - U10s v Broadwater

Worthing were outplayed by an extremely professional Broadwater outfit. The winning margin of 170 runs did not flatter the away team. However, we enjoyed the game despite the poor weather and there were moments of encouragement which the under tens will be looking to build on over the coming weeks.

Sunday 22 May 2011

21.5.11 - 2nd XI v Ifield 2nd XI

A convincing win for the 2s again. Having won the toss skipper Justin watts put Ifield in and was rewarded for this decision when his bowlers rolled them for 127. Wickets were shared around with Paul Westlake taking 4 for 40, Harry Dunn 3 for 29, Bradley Lewis 2 for 8 and Stuart Carter 1 for 45.

The winning margin could have been a lot larger than the 6 wickets it actually was due to some rash shots, but the victory margin was convincing enough and the march up the table has now reached the summit, where the side intends to stay no doubt.

Scorcard

21.5.11 - 4th XI v Serendib 2nd XI

What another great day for the 4ths. against tricky opposition we came home convincingly with 9 overs to spare. It proved to be another awesome team performance with a number of candidates for man of the match.
After lending lloyd the 'lucky' £1 he proceeded to win the toss and insert the opposition. The wicket looked good. We spoke about the importance of hitting the right length and to stay positive as partnerships on this track will be formed. Adam B hit the deck hard and was rewarded with a wicket in the first over. he induced another mis timed hook from the opener and a smart catch was taken. A partnership was then formed. Serendipity always looked like they wanted to score quickly. After a few high scoring overs the pace was changed and the introduction of the Spin twins of Oxley and Cool was implemented. Obviously Cool and Oxley are at the opposite ends of the age, fitness and talent pool but I'm sure Mr Cool will begin to learn! Serendipity struggled against the spin and pace taken off the ball and a strangle hold was applied. Chances were being presented constantly and on other days we would have dismissed them much sooner. After a couple of contentious decisions going against the Juggernaught what was impressive was how we stayed on the job of bowling them out which was job done in the 46th over with Nick taking his 6th wicket. Serendipity had no answer to this young man and could only try to defend or blaze an attack which ended up in their demise. To dismiss Serendipity for 196 on a good track was a great effort and well deserved.
After a 'focusing' chat to the team emphasising the importance of building a base in which to knock off the runs oh how the openers took that seriously. By his own admittance Aaron had a mixed day behind the stumps and looked a little tired. But man how that didnt show in his batting. Serendipity will probably posses one of the better overall bowling attacks in this league but Aaron batted with a fluency that was beyond his years. He mixed defence with attack perfectly and before we knew it we were in excess of 100 for no wicket with Aaron on a very deserved 50. I've never liked drinks breaks when batting and this proved true as shortly afterwards Aaron was out. Matt Payne added to the target but we did then lose two quick wickets. Matt being caught behind an BC playing a very rash and unnecessary shot giving us that little wobble. But again its impressive how everyone is chipping in. Robbie Anderson came in and with a partnership with Lloyd, who himself was cramping up but continued to finish the job, saw us within 4 runs when unfortunately for him got run out. No worries though within 2 balls lloyd strikes the winning runs and we get home 4 down and with 9 overs to spare. A very well earned 30 points and top of the table. We have been playing very well and as a team. We have had no outstanding stars but a great team all contributing to the game. this game was obviously led by Nick Oxley, Aaron Tugnutt and Lloyd Osland but only with the support of the rest of the Juggernaught.
Brilliant game and efforts folks. Hard to give one person the man of the match but Lloyd is tipping it for him taking responsibility to see us home. But I have to keep Aaron and Nick in there too.

Scorecard

21.5.11 - 3rd XI v Scaynes Hill 1st XI

Still chasing their first win in this division, the 3rd XI held out for a draw. Having bowled first we bowled out the hosts for 242 with James Aylen the star bowler, claiming 5 for 33, well supported by Dave Leader (3 for 76) and some economical stuff from Martyn Swift (1 for 49 off 14 overs) and Joe Westlake (1 for 14 off 7 overs).

The batting was dominated by Leader who hit 71 on his return to the club, but bigger contributions were required from other senior players if we were to threaten the opposition's total. We finished on 207 for 8.

A win is not far away, and improvements are being seen every week.

Scorecard

21.5.11 - 5th XI v Felbridge and Sunnyside 3rd XI

A few regulars out so having won the toss Worthing elected to field. The innings started well with a few early wickets going to J.Belton (3-34). A.Pelling scored 101 for Felbridge until he was bowled by Alex Anderson (1-28). Other wickets fell to Greg Harris (1-66), Harry Reeves (1-24) on debut for Worthing, and Sam Wookey (1-15)
Felbridge ended up 206-7 declared.

Worthing then had 46 overs to bat for the win but unfortunately our unbeaten run this year has come to an end, along with the top of the table position. We lost the top three cheaply, but player of the day Marc Hinton continued to impress and tried his best to get us some batting points. He faced just 42 balls and hit 10 fours on his way to a great 56, well done to Marc on scoring his first senior 50! Great to see a youngster performing well and showing the seniors how to do it. A shame no-one was able to stick with him as he was clearly batting well. Alex Anderson did manage to put up some resistance at the end getting 7* from 16 balls. Unfortunately Worthing were all out for 93 meaning we picked up just 4 points from the match, whereas Horsham Trinity take over the number one spot in the league picking up another 30 points.

We'll have to get back to winning ways next week against Rustington 2XI in what is always a great match!

Scorecard

22.5.11 - U15s v Findon (MCC National Cup)

Worthing 101-3 after 20 overs beat Findon, 85-9 after 20 overs, by 16 runs

Worthing U15s moved into the County Quarter-Finals of the ECB U15 National Cup following a 16 run victory over local rivals Findon at the Manor. Put into bat, Worthing's innings was under some early pressure before Aaron Tugnutt took the game to the Findon attack. Scoring an unbeaten 50 including eight 4s, Aaron spearheaded the batting with some fine stroke-play. Aaron's effort was well backed up by Robbie Anderson who scored 22 in quick time towards the end off the innings and together with some excellent running between the wickets, got the home side up to a total of 101 at the close.

Sam Greenrod wasted little time in getting into the Findon top order taking 3 wickets in his opening 3 overs; his spell ultimately proving decisive in the match. James Allen and Jamie Packer continued the onslaught taking 2 and 4 wickets respectively and Aaron capped and all-round performance bagging two catches and two stumpings behind the sticks. Findon's Lawson provided a fine reposte hitting a creditable 31 but when he succombed with the total on 79 the game was all but over. Another good win for the Worthing team with highlights in all departments of the game.

Notable Performances:

Batting: Aaron Tugnutt 50 (Retired Out), Robbie Anderson 22 Not Out
Bowling: Sam Greenrod 3o-0m-8r-3w, Jamie Packer 3-0-22-4, James Allen 3-1-6-2
Fielding: Aaron Tugnutt 2 catches, 2 stumpings

Scorecard

Saturday 21 May 2011

21.5.11 - 1st XI v Ifield

Pitch gremlins got into batsmen's minds in this one. Having won the toss Ifield chose to bat first on a dry and very dusty wicket that was given very poor marks by the umpires. The home side made 146 with Tom Chambers taking 4 for 23, Benn Challen 3 for 23 and Ollie Rogers 2 for 43, with the wicket misbehaving in patches.

Worthing's batting reflected a wicket that was ridden with demons, despite Ifield's lack of usage of those particular demons. A poor batting display was 34 runs short of the victory target with batsmen generally getting themselves out cheaply. Only a 46 run partnership between Andy Lutwyche and Luke Vinter for the ninth wicket made the score respectable, Lutwyche top scoring with 27 and Vinter 15.

Some of Ifield's committee seem to think that the confidence gained from this result will give them the impetus and confidence to challenge for promotion. They are mistaken - they will end up mid-table on home form alone.

Scorecard

Wednesday 18 May 2011

Champions League Final

There will be a BBQ and those who wear a Barcelona shirt will get a free pint (or equivalent).

BBQ from about 7.30pm.

Monday 16 May 2011

15.5.11 - U16s vs Goring

The U16s came up short in their opening game of the season against Goring, having fought well in the field to keep the opposition down to97 for 7. Martyn Swift and  Bradley Lewis opened the attack with some consistent bowling and a couple of early wickets keeping the score  down to14 for 2 after 8 overs. However, Goring's middle order took command of the  innings and steadily amassed a total with some credit on  what was a less than even batting surface. A couple of dropped chances  helped their cause but in general, the fielding was  good including a fine diving catch by Aaron Tugnutt behind the stumps helping James Allen to 3 wickets during a fine 4 over spell. With less than 100 on the board, this should have been an eminently gettable total.

The openers got Worthing off to a breezy enough start, seeing 20  on the board after 5 overs. However, the departure of Harry Dunn saw the Worthing  innings settle into the doldrums as Goring's bowlers took hold. The next  6 overs produced just 14 runs and as Worthing continued to struggle,  wickets started to fall. A combination of self-imposed survival, poor  shot selection and lethargic running between the wickets best described as occasional, lead to an  irretrievable position. A valiant effort by Mason Crane almost snatched  victory from the jaws of defeat as Worthing's batting and running  between the wickets at last began to impose itself but in the end it was  too little too late. Winning matches such as these will require a bit more effort and attitude in the batting department.

Notable Performances:
Bowling: Martyn Swift 4-3-2-1, Bradley Lewis 4-1-8-1, James Allen 4-0-14-3
Batting: Mason Crane's frantic 11 in the death throes, Not much else.

For those who want to remind themselves of the agony you can see a selection of pictures from the match via the link below.

http://www.worthingcc.com/U16_v_Goring_15th_May_2011

14.5.11 - 5th XI vs Three Bridges 5th XI

Third game of the season with us looking to remain top of the table. We thought the day started well as we got what we wanted from the toss despite losing it. Three Bridges batting first Greg (3-28) got stuck in to 3 early wickets. First change the skipper (1-28) took the 4th and it was looking like we could have another average chase on its way. But Steve Brown (128) and R.Stewart (39) got their heads down and batted well to get Bridges on top. Jack Westlake (2-27) into the attack and quickly picked up a wicket caught behind by Marc Hinton. Alex Anderson (0-31) bowled well on 5th team debut and deserved a reward but got nothing. James Belton (1-48) back into the attack got a late wicket with Josh Quintais (2-25) bowling well to get us maximum bowling points. Bridges finishing 266-10 from 48.3 overs.
 
Worthing chase began well with Glenn Harris continuing his good form getting 40. Quintais played well getting his first worthing half century (55). Neil Harris kept the innings going strong with 60 but fell near the end to Brown who continued on from his good performance with the bat taking (4-32). The middle order fell cheaply, and Squires going for a duck chopping on from a ball round the throat putting us in the position we could not go for the win, determined to get maximum batting points and restrict our opponents we got to 200 and kept going for the draw. A great resistance from the strong Worthing tail got us there. Belton 9 from 30 balls, Sam Wookey 9 from 28 balls and Westlake 1 from 14 balls saw us through the last 10 overs to finish 233-9.
 
Overall a good performance from Worthing, on a very hard and unpredictable outfield against tough opposition in more ways than one, and a result that puts us top of the table on our own as Horsham Trinity also got a draw, but only picking up 11 points to our 15.

Sunday 15 May 2011

14.5.11 - 3rd XI vs Three Bridges 3rd XI

After losing the toss and being asked to bowl, we bowled very well, with Martyn Swift taking early wickets and being backed up very well by Jack Stuart, Joe Westlake and Dan Stuart, we had Bridges 65 for 7. But Luke Johnston and Thair Liaqat dug in and put on a partnership of 106 and put a competitive score on the board. We then batted and unfortunately lost too many wickets and did not have anyone who could hang around.

The one that got away I fear!

Scorecard

14.5.11 - 2nd XI vs Lewes Priory 2nd XI

This can only be described as a convincing win by a margin of 151 runs. Having been put in by the visitors the Worthing top order made hay on a good batting wicket and a lightning outfield. Dave Marshallsay's 107 not out was the lynchpin of the innings, but he was well supported by Dave Rogers' classy 52 and Justin Watts' hard hitting 77. With the score at 293 for 3 after 37 overs, skipper Watts opted to declare to give his bowlers the chance to get Lewes out.

The bowling was dominated by veteran seamer Paul Westlake as he gained career best figures of 17.5-4-48-9 and joined the "9 for" Club. A terrific effort by everyone, but Marshallsay and Westlake can be particularly pleased with their afternoons.

Having got so close in the previous two games, it's great to get a win under the belt.

Scorecard

14.5.2011 - 1st XI vs Lewes Priory

Another win for Michael Gould's men and in impressive style too. The batting order had a different look to it due to Darryl Rebbetts dropping out after the birth of his yet to be named daughter (lack of commitment was the general consensus). Gould opened with Ben Chambers, the former getting a breezy 63 and making it three half centuries in a row for the new skipper. Chambers batted through for a gutsy 71 not out. Andy Reid got an opportunity at number four, making the most of it by getting a wristy 56 as Worthing, having been inserted by the home side, racked up 235 for 4.

In reply the home side looked good as the openers put on 72 for the first wicket in good time, but Benn Challen made the breakthrough and from that point there was only going to be one winner. Challen ended with figures of 4 for 54 and the evergreen Andy Lutwyche took 3 for 48 to seal the victory, although some bizarre running by Lewes' number 6, Rashid Khan helped them along the way.

74 points from a possible 90 and equal top of the table with Haywards Heath.

Scorecard

14.5.11 - 4th XI vs Rosehill Taverers 1st XI

Well the juniors continue to show improvement and an efficiency that opposition are completely under estimating. On a sunny day in East Brighton Lloyd won his first toss of the season. After a warm up and a chat Lloyd added his piece by saying the opposition thought they were playing a colts team and would get loads of runs. I think now they realise the talent of the juniors! This is good for us because it acts as a great motivator and also puts the opposition off guard.
On a very helpful, bowler friendly pitch, Rosehill were looking, throughout their innings, to be positive and ultimately cost them dear. It was always going to be a wicket that as a batsman you were never truly in on. There was always that demon ball that could undo you. We were happy with their approach as it also meant we were always going to be presented with chances. The first 3 chances were all generated by the ever improving Adam B. Bowling with some zip and on some variable lengths drew their opener into a rash hook, taken very smartly by Nick followed by a full toss driven to short extra (my life flashed before me before protecting my face and taking a catch!). Rosehill do possess a very accomplished striker of the ball so we called his hand and placed Nick on. albeit a couple of lusty shots were hit. Nick drew him down the pitch beautifully and Aaron tok a very smart stumping. Rosehill after this had no answer to the spin of Nick and it was a matter of time before we picked up regular wickets. Sam Greenrod came on to clean up the tail and we had succeeded in bowling Rosehill out for 123. We also didnt drop any catches which is also why they only got 123. Aaron deflected a tricky edge off his head. The fielding was strong and energised.
After tea we spoke of the importance of patience in knocking these off. In previous games here the scores totalled 122, 122-9 and 123 so there are banana skins if we didnt concentrate knocking these off. Lloyd and Aaron set about knocking them off, waiting for poor balls and chip away at the score. They had almost got to their second 50 partnership of the season when Lloyd nicked one behind. Matty Payne continued with Aaron, chipping away to get us within 20. Naturally there was going to be a little wobble as this was the wicket type but the wobble was only 2 wickets and we saw ourselves home 4 down.
A fantastic innings from Aaron held the innings together. he batted with a real maturity and patience tht suited the conditions perfectly. He thoroughly deserved a fifty but fell 7 runs short.
A great team effort that leaves us now joint top of the league. Looking at other results this league is wide open. The eventual winners will be the team that stays together and plays the most consistent cricket of which our first 3 games have shown.
We continue to learn and develop well so opposition teams should be running scared.

Scorecard 

Sunday 8 May 2011

7.5.11 - 2nd XI v Glynde 2nd XI

This was the one that got away by all accounts as Worthing chased 226 to win at Glynde. Worthing were cruising at 140-ish for 3 until a collapse led to them hanging on 9 wickets down.

The pick of the bowlers for the visitors was Stuart Carter whose seamers got him 5 for 66 and Shane Felton grabbed 2 for 67 on Glynde's small ground. Dave Marshallsay batted well for 58 and Carter contributed 42, but too many batters got out too cheaply.

That's two games that really should have been won now, and two draws to show for it. It's an encouraging start for the side on their quest for promotion.

Scorecard

7.5.11 - 4th XI v Billingshurst 3rd XI

Another closely fought game for the 4ths that just went the other way. Everyone for the last two weeks has fought, as asked, until the game is done. After scoring what proved to be about 30 runs light, we almost pulled another game out of the fire. This time Billingshurst were on the receiving end of the resilience of the 4th eleven.

On a indifferent day, Lloyd lost his second toss of the year and we were duly inserted for the second game. Unfortunately unlike last week we lost a couple of quick wickets. Aaron was first to go but one of 'those balls' that as a batter you're going to get and not be bale to do to much about. the wicket was helpful to the bowlers who stuck it just back of a length. We lost regular wickets without any really meaningful partnerships which culminated in being bowled out for 143. Rob Cool hitting Worthings only six (very lusty despatch of a full toss) and Adam's ever increasing maturity were the innings of note. After a hearty tea we did chat about the importance of giving this everything we have. Every point is worth scrapping for. we highlighted that our first season resulted in promotion but by 1 point only. Man how we fought. Adam B is settling into a tricky opening bowler, hitting the deck hard while shaping it away. He'll prove a lot harder to handle when the wickets get harder. Jamie P fitted in as Adams opening foil very well as predicted. Shaping the ball away. It wasnt long before Jamie got his just deserts with two very well earned wickets in the last over of his spell. A little lull after the first two wickets was pushing the game away from us. The introduction of Nick Oxley and Jack Dunn, although not instant was a turning point. Jack put his last weeks frustrations behind him and bowled with a plan and a smile. Nick's second spell also rewarded more but not before the debutant Sam Greenrod came an and took a vital wicket that opened the gate for more quick wickets to follow. We fielded with energy and desire. A solid game for Aaron behind the sticks culminated in hom taken a very sharp leg side catch off Nick. Wickets were falling, Billingshurst were chipping away at the runs. In the end we just didnt have enough and Billingshurst ultimately got home to a deserved win, not that we wouldnt have deserved it if we had nicked it. It was a great game, played in the correct spirit. Notice must also go to the Billingshurst skipper for maintaining a cracking game whilst also matching Worthing for having the juniors futures and opportunities as the main drivers. It resulted in a very good, close game and albeit we lost, we have a lot to take away and should take equal credit for the quality of the game.

What we can take from this is we have some very able juniors coming through and the more we play together the more we will settle. The most important thing is we stay together as we demonstrated on Saturday. Teams should worry about us as we have depth, variety and a great team ethos. Next few weeks should be looked on with real excitement.

Scorecard

7.5.11 - 5th XI v Pulborough 3rd XI

A good match on a damp and difficult pitch to continue our strong start to the season with Marc Hinton performing well with the gloves for his first stint behind the stumps this year from about the 15th over, Neil Harris for taking a catch out in the field without his gloves for a change, and Jack Westlake also impressed on debut bowling well and deserving wickets that unfortunately didn't come.

Thanks to Andy Culver for doing a good job umpiring for us.
Greg Harris opened the bowling well as always taking 4 wickets for 15 runs from 10 over's with 5 maidens. His caught and bowled was brilliant diving one handed to his left.
James Belton opening the bowling from the other end was on the spot creating chances taking 2 wickets for 28.

Then came the first change bowler and 5th team debutant Jack Westlake, expecting good things Jack delivered from ball one, unfortunate not to get a wicket as he bowled well with great line and length throughout making life difficult for the batsmen, his 6 over spell going for just 14 runs.
Continuing with youth replacing Greg, Sam Wookey came into the attack giving the ball good flight and troubling the batsmen deservedly taking 1 wicket for 24 runs...a shame the captain couldn't hold on to a skied shot to give Sam another wicket.
Captain Squires then into the attack and hoping to make up for a fielding error took 3 for 23, well done to Marc Hinton as he took a great stumping which added to an already impressive performance which included a catch from Sam Wookey's bowling.
Last bowler into the attack Glenn Harris bowled well but Joe Doorman was in by now and got hold of a few, Glenn finishing with figures of 0 wickets for 20 runs...again a skied shot which was heading in the direction of the captain went down as I only just made the ground, sorry guys.
Fielding was good throughout the innings with the exception of a couple of dropped catches, the team working well to build pressure and help the bowlers take wickets.

With 131 runs required for the win Bastable and Quintass started the chase, both did well eating up deliveries to see off most of the opening pressure. Quintass then fell LBW, soon followed by Bastable.
The two Harris' that saw us most of the way home last week were then at the crease but Neil got a good ball early in his innings bowled for 0. Glenn Started to look good and settled into his innings. Marc Hinton next in but after a good shot for 4 he hit one in the air from a ball which bounced surprisingly, out caught. Squires up next but after hitting a 4 back over the bowlers head got a good ball and continued the collapse. Ian Wookey in and did well to steady the ship with Glenn putting the game back into sight. Up to the Harris brothers and Greg did his usual hitting it to all parts including dishing out a dislocated finger and a lump to the head to Pulborough bowlers, his 25 nearly saw us home.

Sam Wookey in and after being there at the end last week went one better and hit the winning runs. Fantastic knock from Glenn Harris of 50* was just what we needed and gave him back to back 50's!

A great team performance and all worked hard to get us our 2nd win of the season putting us top of the table with a maximum of 60 points, lets hope we can continue our good form into next week and the rest of the season.

Scorecard

7.5.11 - 3rd XI vs Dome Mission

Dome Mission set an imposing target of 275 for 8 at Horsdean with the pick of the bowlers being Patrick Morgan (3 for 35), Bradley Lewis (2 for 43) and Luke Barnes (2 for 46) on his return to the club. Joe Westlake picked up the other wicket.

Worthing reached 160 for 9 with Dan Stuart and Joe Westlake hanging on to claim a draw. Morgan and Lewis starred with the bat scoring 52 and 45 respectively but they lacked enough support to challenge Mission's total.

Another tough game for a side with a mixture of youth and experience but they are warming to the task and actually did well considering the players who were unavailable!

Scorecard

Saturday 7 May 2011

7.5.11 - 1st XI v Glynde

Worthing posted an impressive score of 259 for 4 having won the toss and batted first. Benn Challen's 133 (leg-side biased due to a heavily loaded off-side field) and Michael Gould's 81 (extra cover biased, where else?) being impressive against some good bowling at times, although Gouldy was given a life or two early on.

Glynde made 182 for 9 in reply, although their quest for maximum batting points made the game closer than it could have been. Andy Lutwyche picked up 4 for 38, Challen 3 for 40 and Ollie Rogers 2 for 47 (including the top scalp of Joe Adams) in a commanding draw where only the home side really looked like winning. Rogers won the Literary Cup for the day as he and Glynde skipper Dominic Shepherd had an interesting cricketing debate on the merits of the referral system and the future of the umpires' authority when it comes to decision making in the game, at least that's what I assume they discussed.

44 points from two games: can't grumble.

Scorecard

Tuesday 3 May 2011

2.5.11 - U15s v Arundel (MCC Cup)

Worthing prevailed against blustery conditions and a strong Arundel fightback in what proved to be an exciting finish. Arundel elected to field and saw Worthing make slow progress with the score reaching just 31 after 9 overs. However, an Aaron Tugnutt onslaught yielding 18 runs in the 10th gave the innings some much needed impetus which was later helped by some aggressive running between the wickets by Ollie Carpenter, Harvey Von Biel and Ollie Parker added a priceless 19 runs in the last two overs. Worthing closed out on 103 runs for 7 wickets after their allotted 20 overs; a creditable but perhaps slightly modest total.

Arundel got off to bright start and were already passed 20 runs after 4 overs without loss. However, a run-out in the 5th immediately prompted two further wickets from Martyn Swift who cleaned bowled Arundel's 3 and 4 in quick succession. A quiet period followed and with Arundel on 43 for 5 after 10 the game looked beyond them. Nonetheless some improvised batting helped by some occasional loose fielding and wild throwing gave Arundel a foot hold. But inevitably, in the chase for runs, two further run outs resulted and Arundel finished 9 runs short on 94 for 8. A good win for the U15s in their first game this season against last season's WACA League champions.

Notable Performances: Aaron Tugnutt 37, Martyn Swift 2 for 17. A special mention also to Sam Greenrod who took his first wicket for the team.

Scorecard

Monday 2 May 2011

30.4.11 - 2nd XI v Haywards Heath - Dunny's Disaster

We kicked off our season at home to newly relegated Haywards Heath. Tough start but we had a good team so fancied our chances! We won the toss and chose to bat on a decent wicket. Dunny and Chuckle opened the innings and we got off to a solid start until Chuckle run himself out, a moments hesitation cost him. Stu Carter next in went cheaply and when Dunny fell to a caught and bowled we were 3 down for 50 odd. David Rogers was looking very good but Tom Lund seemed to have come to the wicket with a stick of celery!!!! However they put on 73 when DR was out having scored 54, a top innings. The skipper came to the wicket with Worthing looking slightly precarious at 124-4. Lundy soon followed DR back to the pavillion so we were looking a bit shaky. Wattsy was looking in decenet nick and with some mini partnerships with Mossy and Samrat he passed 50 and was last man out for 68. Worthing 226 all out. A good effort for first game of the season. Tom Chambers and Shane opened the bowling and buildind pressure as Haywards Heath moved to 30 without loss. TC and Shane then picked a couple of wickets and Haywards Heath were wobbling a bit. We then introduced Harry Dunn, making his 2nd team debut, and he bowled beautifully taking his maiden wicket in his first couple of overs. Stu Carter replaced Shane from the top end and took 4 very quick wickets and with Harry chipping in with another one Haywards Heath were staring down the barrel at 90-9 off 30 overs. This is when Tim Dunn really came to the party. Their number 11 edged his 1st ball to Tim at 1st slip who managed to drop it!!! They then blocked out for another few overs until Shane came back on to bowl and dropped a very difficult caught & bowled. They continued to frustrate us but our chance came with 3 overs to go and Harry Dunn back in the attack. All the fielders were around the bat and Harry bowled a great delivery, the number 11 got a leading edge looping it in slow motion towards the chairman. What happened next will be remembered for the rest of the season. Tim managed, without question or argument, to drop quite possibly the easiest catch in cricketing history and off his own son's bowling!!! Therefore enabling Haywards Heath to bat out the last 2 1/2 overs for the most improbable draw. A really good performance from us and very promising for the rest of the season.

Wattsy

Scorecard               

Sunday 1 May 2011

30.4.11 - 3rd XI v Broadbridge Heath

Following our promotion to Division 3 last season, we faced Broadbridge Heath 1st XI. The toss was won by Broadbridge Heath and they elected to field. It was tough going on what was a slow pitch and also some straight bowling from Broadbridge Heath. Richard James knuckled down and hit a fluent 42 and he was helped out by Ed Wyeth who hit a very good 62. Wickets were falling to easily around them and some poor running cost us 3 wickets. We got to 149 all out which was a fairly competitive score.
When we took the field, one of the our debutants Martin Swift opened the bowling and had an excellent first 6 over spell taking 1 for 13. He will be one to watch this season and he will certainly be taking a lot more wickets. Another debutant Joe Westlake also had a very impressive 6 over spell also taking 1 for 12. they both bowled extremely well and certainly fitted in very well. Unfortunately a couple of dropped catches cost us the chance to win the game, Alex Case from Broadbridge Heath who ended up 51 not out came in when they were 65 for 6 and he and N Charman steadied the ship with what was to be the winning partnership.
It was a pleasing game and great to see the youngsters who came into the team do very well.

Scorecard 

30.4.11 - 5th XI v St Andrews 3rd XI

A winning start for Adam Squires' men as they beat St Andrews by 7 wickets. Greg harris' 4 for 18 and Jack Stuart 4 for 30 ripped the heart out of the St Andrews innings, with skipper Squires collecting 2 for 16.

The reply started with the loss of two early wickets but Glenn Harris (53) and Neil Harris (31*) got Worthing there.

A solid start for the team!

Scorecard

30.4.11 - 4th Xl v Broadbridge Heath 2nd XI

A fine win for a youthful side with a number of players getting their first taste of senior cricket.The runs were shared around with Lloyd Osland scoring 54 and Aaron Tugnutt 29 opening the innings in his first senior game. Barry Cool hit 49 before Adam Bardouleau (32*) and Dan Stuart (25*) saw the side post 215 for 5.

In reply Heath managed just 146 all out with Nick Oxley, Barry Cool and Lloyd Osland the main destoyers, but Oxley's 4 for 30 from 11 overs in his first senior game needs special mention.

A great team effort!

Scorecard

30.4.11 - 1st XI v Haywards Heath

The first game of the season and a few new faces for the Worthing CC. Michael Gould won the toss and elected to bat on a green but hard surface. Gould smashed 56 (mainly through extra cover!) and Darryll Rebbetts also hot a half century as the visitors posted 201 all out - a score that was felt to be a bit below par, but could have been worse had Andy Reid not chipped in with a valuable 26 late on.

Heath looked to have the game sewn up as overseas player Matthew Junk was going well, but he was out on 97 and their innings fell apart with Benn Challen (5 for 48) and Luke Vinter (3 for 45) the pick of the bowlers. Worthing got over the line by 13 runs and pick up 30 points.

A great start to the league campaign!

Scorecard