Surrey Edge Closer to BACD Semi Final

Jul 4, 2010

On Sunday 4th July, having endured an horrific coach journey, the Surrey BACD team travelled up to Essex knowing that a win would almost surely secure them a semi-final spot. Surrey arrived at Garon Park for this much awaited match full of confidence having displayed fine form in the last few matches. However, with reduced availability, the boys were up against a tough and improving Essex side.

Surrey couldn’t have started any worse losing openers, Lodge and England’s Stenning, in the first 5 overs and at 16-2, Green and Akmal had a job to do. With some lusty blows and sensible running, both notched up good 30’s and at drinks, the boys were 100-2 after 13 overs and looked set to build up a huge total.

Sadly batsman came and went and Surrey lost 8 wickets for 29 runs in a batting collapse to rival no other with Essex's Walker claiming 5 of Surrey’s batsman. Essex bowled well and were in the box seat at the halfway stage.....but it is a funny old game…..

Surrey bowled beautifully at the start but to no avail and Essex lost their first wicket in the 9th over with their score on 24. Then the curse of the dreaded drinks break struck again and brought a tirade of wickets. Stenning and Green picked up 3 a piece and the return of Bahar brought 2 beautiful wickets. Then it was the turn of the Essex batsman to come and go with only young Ronnie Jackson showing any resilience with a good 20 not out.

But, Surrey held their nerve and gained victory by 35 runs!  Both teams played well and contributed magnificently to a great match at a great venue.

For Surrey now, a win against Isle of Wight next week at Plough Lane (11th July) will confirm their semi-final place in the BACD cricket league.

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