Long day in the field as Sinjun biffer makes hay

It was with some apprehension that the team travelled to Balham for this fixture, as last year it proved to an unpleasant experience for the Llamas. It is positive to report that this year the game was played in a sporting and good-natured atmosphere, more reflective of a cricket match.

Aaron lost the toss and SGCC opted to bat first on a good wicket, with the boundary in close. The opening bowlers Mike Coxon (1-43) and Josh Thomas (0-52) beat the bat on numerous occasions without success, however it was a Matt Weekes who claimed the first wicket with a fortunate run out. SGCC had put on 72 for their first wicket. Simon Morris (3-48), Matt Weekes (0-28) and then Sam Gregson (3-43) took over the bowling duties and wickets fell at regular intervals. SGCC were 128 for 6 and the Llamas were very much in the game. The SGCC number 7 batsman Faheem Abbas made his intentions clear when he hit a six from his first ball. He went on to make a matching winning 93 runs, through controlled but aggressive striking of the ball. The 7th wicket partnership put on 135 to change the course of the game.
There were catches for Morris, Thomas and Chris Hudson, but a number of chances were missed.
SGCC ended their 45 over innings on 281 for 8.

Although SGCC had posted a big score, with the boundary in so tight, Priory felt that they still had a chance. Brijesh Patel and Sam Gregson opened the batting and made a confident start developing a partnership of 69 before Sam Gregson was bowled for 24. Brijesh Patel was bowled shortly after for 42 runs, followed quickly by Matt van Staden who was run out for 1. Unfortunately the collapse had started with only Felix Tiley (11) and Mike Coxon (10*) getting into double figures. Priory were all out for a below par 131.

Priory are away to Normandy on Saturday as we seek our first win of the season.