Runs shortage in a special year

Published on 12th June 2008 in Sport

Carlton opener Paul Wright shows the makers name in making 30 of his side's moderate total of 145, not enough to prevent defeat against Beverley Town. (12-06-24 GT)

Carlton Towers I 145

Beverley Town II 149-4

Carlton Towers suffered yet another defeat although with other results going their way they remain second from bottom of Division Two, with their next match at Bolton Percy who are only six points above them.

It was a case of the batsmen still not running on all cylinders as they failed to make any impact.

Only Paul Wright, Mark Spetch and Martyn Denby, who has played only a handful of matches in the last two seasons and this only his second of the year, made over 20, supplemented by 33 extras and no other batsman making double figures.

Paul Wright was pivotal to the early order though, featuring in three partnerships of over 20, before he was out for 30. Mark Spetch remained at the crease to provide some desired stability, although he fell for 21, after having put on 33 for the seventh wicket with Martyn Denby, whose 29 at least provided some element of respect.

The last three wickets fell for a total of nine runs to set a modest target of 145.

The first Beverley wicket fell with the score on five, but this was the only bright spot as the next three partnerships produced scores of 56, 52 and 56 respectively, to bring about a six-wicket success for the visitors. Tim Smith made 33, Paul Best 35 and Paul Fleming an undefeated 44.

Carlton Towers' 150th year on the field of play is proving to be a giant millstone around its neck. Whilst a relegation battle is the stark reality, the standards set over the years can be trusted to put the team in control of its future destiny.

Division Five B

Cawood II v Carlton Towers II

Disappointment for the in-form seconds who suffered a blank Saturday at bottom club Cawood due to a damp pitch.

Forthcoming fixtures

Thursday, June 12

Snaith and District Evening League

Carlton Towers v Hensall.

Saturday, June 14

Hunters York and District Senior Cricket League - Division Two

Bolton Percy v Carlton Towers I.

Division Five B

Carlton Towers II v Whitkirk II.

HPH York Vale League Division Five

Carlton Towers III v York R.I., to be played at York R.I.

Sunday, June 15

Edward Readman Memorial Trophy Round Two

Carlton Towers I v Bridlington.