Sport So close to a win for villagers
Airmyn 192-9
Patrington 156-9
Airmyn recorded a satisfying winning draw against a Patrington side who have come out on top rather too often in recent meetings between the two sides.
Perhaps the confident noises coming from the away dressing room before proceedings began were to some degree understandable therefore, but either way the sentiments proved to be somewhat misplaced.
Airmyn's reliable openers, Smith and Holah, again gave the Percy side a solid start of 46 from 12 overs before the latter was trapped low for 26.
Once again, the whole side gained confidence from pair's opening stand, and this was no better demonstrated than by an excellent innings from Rich Stevens (38) who continues to play with much of his former aplomb.
As Patrington's frustration grew, they permed their bowlers in an attempt to make the second breakthrough, but Smith has looked largely immoveable this season and was so again as he passed yet another half century.
Indeed, he was responsible for his own downfall in the end, mis-cuing a poor full toss, but his 59 had helped Airmyn to 107-2. Gav Clark joined Stevens and between them they added 32 from four overs to add real impetus but when both fell in quick succession, Airmyn's innings began to peter out somewhat and further wickets fell.
Flurries from Thomson (16) and Roper (14no) did drag the side through a very sticky patch, finally allowing them to close on a defendable 192-9.
Patrington's innings began in like fashion to Airmyn's with a 41 opening partnership and Brooks looking in good form.
Two wickets in an over from Thomson were just what Airmyn needed, but Patrington are not the type of side to roll over, and another 40 partnership left Airmyn erring on the frustrated side as drinks were taken. Indeed, the visitors were still very much fancying their chances at 93-3 with 18 overs remaining.
However, the crucial introduction of Holah into the attack swung the game in his side's favour with a three wicket burst in four overs, including the removal of Brooks for 49, and a smart catch behind the stumps by Drakeley. In fairness, Patrington's middle order looked in the mood to go for the victory despite being 104-6, and some lusty blows from Guy and Collinson maintained their outside chance of victory.
Thomson, though, showed all of his experience to take 3 more scalps in a six wicket haul and leave the visitors hanging on for a losing draw at 156-9.
This week Airmyn entertain South Holderness, looking to maintain their winning run, and with a completely full first 11 available for the first time in several seasons, they should have every chance.
Published on 4th September 2008 in Sport.
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