St Andrews University Staff & Postgraduate Cricket Club

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University of St Andrews 2nd XI, 11th April 2015

The 2015 season started with a familiar tale to– not enough batsman scoring runs in the face of a reasonable target. However, there was much to be encouraged about from the bowlers.

Choosing to field first, Dave and Alyn showed little rustiness in opening spells of 5 overs each as the students were reduced to 25-3, Alyn having the honour of taking the first wicket of the season.  A double change brought Ben and Phil into the attack without reward as the 4^th wicket pair constructed a sensible partnership of 80. However, the introduction of Angus and Francis saw a tightening up of the scoring rates as the two set batsmen were dismissed, Dom taking the first catch of the season off Angus as he bowled a 6 over spell to take 2 for 13  

After a foray from James, Dave and Alyn came back to complete their spells at the death– with Phil taking a high catch off Alyn to give him figures of 3-29, and Dave with a clean bowled to end with 2-31. Some good work in the field by Phil led to the 9^th wicket falling to a run-out and the students officially ended on 180-9.

In response Dom fell early, overcome with the excitement of hitting a boundary on the offside. Ben and Ross kept ticking along and took the score to 30 before Ben stumps were ingloriously destroyed  for 16. With Francis showing some admirable discipline the score was helped along to 81, and the partnership reaching 51, before Ross holed out for a well-made 45, starting a collapse of 7 wickets for 19 runs as spinners ran through the remainder of the batting line-up – Francis and Alyn both falling to excellent catches behind the wicket.

Overall some good performances and hopefully the brisk wind and low temperatures worked in clearing out any cobwebs.

University of St Andrews 2nd XI, 15th April 2015

The second part of the staff-students double-header ended with the same result, but a far closer game.

Again fielding first the staff bowled tightly with Alyn and Phil opening the bowling – Phil taking a long awaited wicket early on with Paul taking the catch at the second attempt, whilst Alyn was unlucky to see a catch go down off his bowling. The bowlers kept chipping away at the 3rd XI batting line-up whilst sometimes nets colleague James kept the scoreboard ticking over at the other end without ever taking the game away from us– Dave taking the third wicket courtesy of a catch by Alyn.

Stan displayed customary guile and student-sledging ability, taking 2-13 off 4 overs and seeing a couple of catches put down, whilst Pat came back well after an erratic first over to take two wickets, both clean bowled, as the students were unable to make a late charge – finishing on 119 for 7 as Phil came back at the death to remove the students’ top scorer – Stefan taking a fine steepling catch after he was unlucky not to take a wicket in an exploratory over.

After an early wicket Phil and Stan took the score to 35-1 before Phil played one shot too many after a swashbuckling start. Dom fell to his first legitimate ball but Stan and Paul steadied the ship and put on 45, Stan in particular playing with freedom and finding the boundary regularly on his way to a half-century whilst Paul offered good support.

Despite Paul’s departure the Staff were looking good for victory with the score at 97-4 but the obligatory lower order collapse, despite some big hits from Andy and stout resistance from Stefan, saw the last 6 wickets fall for 18 runs – although some controversy over LBW decisions marred the denouement as the student umpire got overly trigger happy , with an overly optimistic appeal even being withdrawn after it was given out.

A good close game where a combination of dropped catches, interesting umpiring and lack of calm under pressure saw us come away without victory.

Glenrothes, 19th April 2015

The pre-season friendlies ended with another defeat against a strong Glenrothes outfit at our new second home in Dunfermline.

Fielding first St Andrews go off to a good start with an early wicket   - Dave the beneficiary of the LBW decision. A further couple of chances were put down as catching yet again didn’t back up the bowling. However, on an artificial pitch with a quick outfield runs began to come quickly – the batsmen not afraid of hitting through the line and going aerial, with another catch going down when Francis came into the attack. With Francis and Josh both bowling tightly (Josh going for just 27 in his 6 overs)  the scoring rate slowed down considerably, and Francis was rewarded with an under-edge behind – Ross taking a good catch,

Soon after Angus took a wicket in his first over Dom taking a low catch at short cover. This, however,  brought the overseas amateur to the crease who aided a very quick 103 partnership, both he and the opener clearing the boundary by a considerable distance at times,  before falling to Stan’s flight for a quick 50 – Ross completing the stumping. Some more hitting down the order was ended with a deserved 2^nd wicket for Francis – Graham completing an excellent catch under a very high ball, before Dave finished the innings with another wicket to leave Glenrothes on 278-5, with the opener unbeaten on 143.

Ross and Josh opened up in comfortable style, Ross in particular keeping the scoreboard ticking over as they pair put on 50 before Josh fell to an excellent catch by the wicketkeeper. Ross carried on in partnership with Stan, making his 50 out of  the 73 scored up until that point, but was then LBW to the Glenrothes spinner to leave the staff at 81-2.

Dom gifted the spinner another wicket as he holed out on the boundary, Paul was bowled soon after and Graham was unfortunate to be run-out with an excellent direct-hit as the staff stumbled to 106-5. However with Stan batting obdurately with brief glimpse of strokeplay, Alyn came in and proceed to annoy the overseas amateur by being dropped behind. Some discussion of the batsman’s technique followed before Stan responded by hitting two boundaries off the over. Alyn fell after a well-made 13, and then Francis was unlucky to get a first-baller, an excellent catch being taken in the gully. The game ended with Stan unbeaten on 36, dropped from the last ball much to his amusement and the bowler’s frustration.

A good game against a team with a couple of players too strong for us but we didn’t help ourselves again with dropped chances in the field letting the bowlers down. Some encouraging batting from Ross and Stan bodes well.

Stoneywood Dyce, 9th May 2015

StAUSCC finally started off their league with a game away to Stoneywood Dyce – with the ground located at end of Aberdeen airport’s runway.

With Stoneywood batting first and the score at 41 off 3 overs the rate was soaring and things were looking bleak before Phil made two important breakthroughs – Dom taking the catch behind both times, although the first somewhat unorthodoxly between the legs. This did not stop the Stoneywood onslaught, however, as they progressed to 110 off 12 overs with the ball flying over the boundary frequently. The introduction of Angus immediately put the brakes on and brought reward, with the dangerous Mills chopping on, before a calmly taken run out and Dave pinning the new batsman LBW for a spell of 3 wickets in 4 balls to leave the score at 110-5.

With Stan bowling 3 maidens in his first 4 overs and Angus completing his spell with great economy - his 9 overs going for just 19 runs, the StAUSCC attack began to pull the run-rate back to a more reasonable level as Stoneywood consolidated their swift start. Al returned to take a wicket after an expensive first spell before the batsman started to accelerate towards the end of the innings with a 7th wicket partnership of 89.

Phil returned with further success, finding an excellent yorker length to bowl two batsmen in three balls, unfortunately then not able to hang on to a caught and bowled chance that would have completed a five-fer as Stoneywood finished on an imposing 269-8.

Dom and Al opened against some brisk bowling with swing on offer – Dom falling for 2 before and Al and Stan began to show some more comfort. Unfortunately Al fell clean bowled for 9 as he looked to launch a boundary, leaving StAUSCC at 18-2.

With the opening bowlers having been seen off and the score advanced to 29 a move towards respectability seemed possible. However, a collapse against the change bowling saw the last 7 wickets fall for 10 runs as the ball continued to swing and keep low - as shown by all of the wickets falling bowled or LBW. Pat was left not –out with his attempt at a match-winning double-century sawn off in its infancy.

Four bowling points in the bag, with Phil returning his best figures for the club.

Dundee University Staff, 13th May 2015

A first win of the season in a T20 friendly against our Dundee counterparts. Bowling first StAUSCC were soon on top as Dave removed the dangerous Ramlingam for a duck. With all the seamers finding some swing and assistance Dundee were reduced to 16-5 in the 10th over– Phil taking 1-4 off his 3 overs, Angus 2-6 off 3 and Rebekah taking 2-10 off 4 overs on debut. Some good catching by Angus – one at slip off Rebekah and one off his own bowling – made sure that StAUSCC took advantage off the conditions.

The slow bowling proved more to Dundee’s liking as they recovered and made their way to 76 off their 20 overs, although Sam did chip in with a wicket in his spell, Paul taking the catch.

StAUSCC started slowly in response as the Dundee opening pair bowled accurately to leave us at 8-2 off 9 overs –Dom and Paul both going for ducks. However, with some change bowling that was more the our liking Stan and Sam put on a valuable partnership of 30 before 2 wickets in an over brought Dundee back into the game – with Stan following soon after for 23 and the score at 49 for 5 off 16 overs and 28 needed for victory off the last 4 overs. However, Phil, after hitting a first ball boundary, and Dave, saw the side home with some sensible batting and running – getting the required runs with 3 balls to spare to complete victory in a game that was perhaps closer than it should have been.

Norwood, 17th May 2015

St Andrews picked up their first league win of the season with a convincing performance against Norwood. After choosing to bat first Norwood made a solid start, seeing off the opening bowlers and advancing to 44 without loss. However, the introduction of James on debut brought immediate reward as he took a wicket with his first ball. The second wicket fell with no further addition to the score – Phil removing the dangerous Deshmukh for 31.

StAUSCC cranked up the pressure with James and Phil delivering 5 maidens in 6 overs at one point, Phil gaining reward with his second wicket as the Norwood no. 3 attempted to hit out with Ben Reiss taking a well-judged swirling catch – his first of 3 catches in the innings. Then some excellent fielding straight after drinks from James T at square leg removed the Norwood no. 4 and left them at 66-4 . There followed a remarkable spell of bowling and fielding from StAUSCC as Norwood were to lose their last 6 wicket for 1 run in 6 overs as Dave was brought back into the attack, responding with two wickets, and James finally gained reward for constantly beating the bat - finishing with two wicket maidens to end with figures of 3-13 off 9 overs, including 5 maidens. The innings was wrapped up in the 30th over as Ben Reiss proved too quick for the tail – also picking up a wicket with his first ball before his sixth led to a run out - Phil with the direct hit to add to his two earlier wickets.

After an excellent tea Dom and Al opened up chasing the 71 for victory. With no scoreboard pressure they were content to wait on the bad balls as they put on 34 for the first wicket in 11 overs, both dispatching anything short and looking comfortable against the Norwood opening bowlers. A change did bring a wicket, Al bowled for 12 by a good ball that straightened. However, there were no further alarms as Stan settled in with a partnership of 39 with Dom in 12 overs - Dom finishing things off with consecutive boundaries to end on 36 not out, with Stan finishing on 16 not out.

An excellent performance with the ball, although still some dropped catches in the field, backed up by sensible batting to see us to a well-deserved victory.

Kinross-shire, 23rd May 2015

StAUSCC took away 12 points from their trip to Loch Leven after a close defeat to Kinross.

Angus took an early wicket with a caught and bowled, but then Kinross set about the bowlers, putting on 125 for the second wicket at 6 an over. However, Phil’s return to the attack saw the important breakthrough, James T taking an excellent catch to remove JJ Ross off a top edge. With no further addition to the score Stan took a simple caught and bowled chance to reduce Kinross to 133-3 and get StAUSCC back in the game. Phil was unfortunate to see two drops off his bowling in the next over as StAUSCC looked to turn the screw but instead allowed the score to reach 194 as Kinross continued to take advantage of anything loose.

In the 31st over James C managed to dislocate a toe during bowling - meaning a trip to A and E and StAUSCC down to fielding with 9 men for the remainder of the innings. However, Dom came into the attack to replace James and took the important wicket of the Kinross top-scorer – getting one to hit him in the helmet before taking a sharp caught and bowled chance next ball. This wicket opened up an end and StAUSCC responded by taking the last 5 wicket for 22 runs – Dom with another caught and bowled, Angus picking up his second, Dave taking a wicket first ball back thanks to another catch by James T, and Stan finishing off the innings against the tail.

Dom and Ross opened and took advantage of any bad balls to progress along comfortably at 4 an over. However, the stand was to end on 56 as Dom gloved one behind to fall for 22. The middle order then didn’t last long as 5 wickets fell for 16 and a traditional StAUSCC collapse looked on– Stan bowled attempting to sweep before the left-arm spinner took a hat-trick spread over two overs to reduce StAUSCC to 72-5. However, Phil provided an able ally for Ross as the pair put on 70 and started to put the pressure back on Kinross with boundaries beginning to come more frequently despite a number of men patrolling the outfield. The stand ended with the score on 142 as a mix-up saw Phil run out – a mishap repeated soon after to James T as well.

Ross continued on to add a further 20 with Dave before eventually falling for an excellent 94, out of 166 scored whilst he was at the crease, as he continued to try and attack and was out stumped. A couple of tight overs saw the required run rate creep up to 10 off the last 5 overs and despite some good looking shots from Dave and Angus, and a cameo from the returning James C , StAUSCC were bowled out 37 runs short with 15 balls remaining.

A good batting chase based around an excellent innings from Ross and partnership with Phil.

Strathmore, 30th May 2015

A battling batting performance but ultimately another defeat against a strong batting team who were in the league above last season.

After Strathmore won the toss they settled in to put on 80 for the 1st wicket at just over 4 an over, with StAUSCC unable to force any clear-cut chances. The 19th over brought a breakthrough with Dave taking an excellent catch off Angus to bring the overseas amateur to the crease. A run out removed the other opener as Phil provided yet another direct hit this season. Angus was unlucky not to gain more reward against the new batsmen, a dropped catch and two edges not going to hand in the same over, whilst James almost claimed a run out with a direct hit. This was to prove momentary alarm for the Strathmore batsmen as they settled in to pile up a large partnership. Although all the bowlers delivered occasional threat the batsman were quick to pounce on anything short, and an alarming number of wides also added to the total. With the Strathmore no. 3 reaching his century off the last ball off the innings, and in the penultimate over pulling off a ‘Dilscoop’ off Phil, Strathmore finished on an imposing 291-2

After a tea replete with excellent home-baking Dom and Ross set out to open the response. Ross was unable to repeat his heroics of the week before falling early and Dom was left to make the early running, making 37 of the 50 scored for the first three wickets as the rest of the top order held up an end . Phil, in a rich vein of batting form, gave some more impetus with some crunching boundaries as he and Dom put on a partnership of 30. However Phil, for 18, and Dom, for 49, fell in quick succession to leave the score at 80 for 5 in the 30th over. Resolute batting all down the order meant we were able to make our way to 3 batting points with 25 runs coming off the last 5 overs to get to the third. Dave showing some form with 28* whilst James, Stefan and Fahad all contributed by injecting some urgency into the strokeplay and running - in particular Dave and Stefan in adding 27 together.

Another pleasingly resolute batting performance in the face of a large total to take 4 points away from a team who will undoubtedly be challenging for promotion.

DHSFP XI, 7th June 2015

Proper cricketing weather for a change and a very satisfying victory with contributions from all concerned. Having been put in, Ross and Al made sedate progress against accurate bowling - Al unlucky to play on looking to move the score along. Dom and Ross enjoyed another productive, hard-running partnership, getting through the senior bowlers and only limited by some excellent fielding and field placing by Dundee. Once Ross had departed and Stan had perished to shooter, we were at a rather sedate 68-3 at drinks, however James Crooks and Dom soon tucked into the change bowlers and put on a splendid 84 in 14 overs, both departing looking to accelerate as the 40th over loomed. With a base set, the late middle order contributed 30 runs in a late flurry with Sam finding the boundary and Francis looking imperious when he (eventually) hit the ball.

Another fine tea consumed, StAUSCC went out for the second innings with confidence high(ish) that 186 would be too much for Dundee. So it proved with Al and Phil moving the ball well at pace, inducing edges and errors from the top order - a wicket each being just reward. Dave replaced Phil at the road end and promptly produced a wicket maiden, followed two overs later by being narrowly denied a hat trick. This was an improvement on his day, having started it chest deep in a large bin, searching for his car keys.... Although a few wides crept back in to our analysis, the bowling was generally very testing - Angus swinging the ball and Stan back in decent rhythm - and they were backed up by sound ground fielding and catching - Al held two - Francis and Phil took one apiece.

A pleasing 25 points collected against very pleasant opponents who played in a very good spirit.

Falkland, 10th June 2015

St Andrews welcomed Falkland back to town on a glorious evening with a good, friendly match and a satisfying win. The Staff fielded first - Josh returning from his intensive training spell in Germany with an early wicket and Graham had the dangerous May very well caught by Lewis at extra cover. All was going swimmingly when Al held a good caught & bowled to dismiss Nellies, however some brutal hitting by Avin Yadav - well supported by the Falkland middle order - and generous assistance from E. Xtras meant that Falkland quickly accelerated to a competitive 145-6. A tiring Yadav was dismissed in peculiar fashion off the last ball - Phil hitting him "amidships" and the crumpling batsman clattering his stumps with his bat on the way down.

A brisk turn around saw Josh and Ross sent out to open - facing a mixture of youth and experience in Falkland's varied bowling attack. Both struck the bad ball well, piercing the field and were progressing at a steady 7 per over until Ross was dismissed for a solid 33 by the deserving Robertson. Andy kept the rate going until he was unfortunate to glove one to the keeper, allowing Paul to supply able support to Josh whose 50 came at a increasing rate - keeping the target just in sight despite some tight late innings bowling from Hunter and Yadav. Paul and Josh put on a hard run partnership of 38 until Paul was run out by a direct hit from the deep - Graham came in to supply the necessary support for Josh to close the match out with a flurry of boundaries - finishing on 81, his highest ever individual score.

Perth Doocot XI, 20th June 2015

A stirring batting performance saw StAUSCC to 10 points on a sunny day in Perth.

After choosing to field first some tight bowling early on from StAUSCC saw Perth reduced to 38-2 – Angus and Stan with the wickets However, the third wicket partnership moved along steadily until the 30th over and then began to attack the bowling on their way to a partnership of 164. A couple of tough chances were put down but otherwise the fielding was good – Stefan in particular doing some fine work on the boundary, Francis showing off his full array of diving stops and Paul providing a direct hit to run out the Perth centurion. Francis was unlucky not to gain reward for some hostile bowling, whilst Pat delivered an economical spell. However, all the bowlers were to suffer towards the end of the innings as Perth attacked with gusto - Dave showing excellent economy in finishing with 2-30.

Dom fell early in response but Jamie and Stan pushed the score onto 62 until a friendly full-toss was helped to deep square-leg by Jamie as he fell for a well-made 34. Paul helped Stan put on 45 before being bowled for 21 as he attempted to push the scoring rate along.

Another partnership of 45 came in quick time between Stan and Graham, but Stan fell shortly after completing his 50 with Graham on 31 from 27 balls. Graham was only to face 2 more dot balls in his innings as he powered his way to 76 off just 51 balls – in partnership first with James and then Francis- as they made an excellent chase of the batting bonus points of offer. In the end, 2 boundaries in the last over from Graham saw maximum batting points gained, although he was then unfortunately run out.

Another good batting performance in the face of a large total.

Largo sixes, 21st June 2015

On Sunday a trip to the Largo Sixes tournament ended in victory – Alyn and Francis powering a run chase in the final after some fine bowling from Lewis had restricted the Largo team. Highlights of the earlier games included an unbeaten opening partnership between Stefan and Lewis to defeat Madras.

Dundee University Staff, 24th June 2015

St Andrews University Staff retained the Ferrier Cup with a convincing win against their counterparts from Dundee University. The cup, played for every year since 1987, has now been in StAUSCC hands for 3 years.

After arriving in some fairly miserable conditions, it was decided to try and get the game in anyway – shortened to 20 overs. Dundee were unfortunate to be asked to field first in the worst of the conditions, whilst the majority of StAUSCC sat safely under cover.

Josh fell early before Ross and Stan progressed the score steadily onto 51 – Ross in particular showed good form and displayed some excellent straight drives on his way to 26. His wicket sparked a mid-order collapse to 60-4 but Paul and James combined well in a partnership of 25 – showing some good shot placement and harrying the field with some good running. James fell for a well-made 14 to leave Dom and Alyn time to hit a boundary apiece and push the score up to 104-6.

The weather thankfully improved slightly for StAUSCC’s stint in the field – and, after an initial onslaught from the Dundee opener, Stan made a double breakthrough in the 3rd over – bowling the opener before Pat took a safe catch at mid-off two balls later. Alyn responded well to an expensive first over with a maiden, and was rewarded with 2 wickets. In between times Josh and Ross effected a simple run-out chance that they made to look complicated – Dundee losing their 5th wicket for 42.

Dave and Josh both took wickets early in their spell, Ross and James taking the catches, to quash any chance of a recovery and it was left to Angus to take the final glory – bowling the last two batsmen to leave StAUSCC victors by 38 runs

Norwood, 27th June 2015

StAUSCC claimed another victory despite some top-order difficulties chasing a low total.

Norwood were put in to bat and started aggressively - an early attack from the opener saw 10 scored off the first two balls of the game and the score had moved on to 36 off 7 overs without StAUSCC making a breakthrough. One opener did retire hurt after some solid blocking but it was left to Francis coming on at first change to take the first wicket – his extra pace hurrying the batsman into a top-edged pull which was well-held at fine leg by Phil.

Some excellent work by Graham, coupled with some interesting running by the batsmen, saw the opposition skipper run-out without scoring and StAUSCC back on top. Norwood then put on a partnership that progressed the score to 82 – but never managed to get on top of the StAUSCC bowling, helped by an economical 6 over spell by Phil.

Josh and Stan then ran through the remainder of the batting line-up, the last 6 wickets not contributing a run as Norwood collapsed to 88 all out. Stan took the important wicket of the obdurate Tait with one that kept low, whilst Ross took two catches behind off Josh who caused problems for the batsmen once he found his rhythm. Stan ended the innings with wickets off consecutive balls to resurrect his reputation for hovering up the tail.

In response the top-order were unable to deliver a good start as some attempted aggressive shots and running left StAUSCC at a shaky 12-3. Stefan did fine work to steady the ship and move the score on to 26 before falling. Stan continued on his way after an early let-off, with Dom providing support in a partnership of 36 which took StAUSCC to within sight of victory. With Dom falling LBW it was left to Josh to come in and dispatch the Norwood change bowler to all parts in a quick-fire 17 not out – Stan taking the winning single after earlier passing 50.

Another valuable 25 points in the league.

Crusaders, 3rd July 2015

Blessed with stunning weather the Staff team enjoyed a very pleasant match against the touring Crusaders team - mostly youngsters with a few wise old heads to keep them right. Their huge tour bus disgorged at least 50 people as players and supporters spilled out onto the ground with the visitors providing two umpires, several scorers and at least 14 players who rotated on and off during the game. The Crusaders batted first, attacking the new orange ball with inevitable Australian gusto, slashing hard through and over the infield, mostly behind square. A number of half chances went begging in the field, notably off Rebekah's first ball and the Aussie batsmen generally enjoyed themselves as the St Andrews bowlers were shuffled with differing degrees of control and success. Josh proved the most troublesome bowler - both for the batsmen and the wicket-keeper as Dom took a nasty blow to the face fielding a late swinging delivery. With Dom away to Minor Injuries and most of the blood washed off the outfield the game continued in slightly subdued fashion with some improved catching and bowling keeping the tourists to a perfectly respectable 163-7, Patrick with three wickets and Phil with two.

The Australian bowling proved to be accurate and effective and with Ross falling early and the batting order looking a little thin, runs were hard to come by. Debutant Daniel Earnshaw looked to hit hard but was tied down and despite some rather un-Australian generosity in the catching department, wickets fell at regular intervals - two to the deserving Jack Le Brun who looks a decent leg spin prospect at the age of 14! Graham's hard-hitting form flourished briefly in the presence of his own Fanatic supporters Club but he was one of two stumping victims and the innings drifted to a close with James and Rebekah stranded a mere 92 runs short of victory!

Dom returned, sporting a splendid eye patch, in good time to offer a few words of thanks to our visitors and we exchanged some tokens to be added to the trophy cabinet, when we get one!

Perth Doocot, 8th July 2015

A sunny summer evening in Perth for a T20 friendly saw a convincing victory for St Andrews over what turned out to be a rather young Perth team, very different in make up to the one we faced in the league a few weeks ago.

With Captain Hook, sorry, Captain Bransden absent following his injury against the Crusaders, it was down to Vice-Captain Pass to lead the way for his troops, and it all started very well as he called correctly at the toss, opting to field first.

Stan opened up and by clean bowling the opener first ball he was quickly claiming a rather dubious hat-trick, having taken two wickets with the last two balls he bowled in a previous game. Phil quickly picked up a wicket at the other end, the remaining opener gloving a well directed short ball behind to Ross who completed a good catch. A poor start by Perth got worse as Frank came into the attack, and after struggling to locate the batsman's half of the wicket with his first couple of balls, fired in a full and straight delivery which earned an LBW decision. Stan completed his spell with another wicket, bowling the opposition captain and leaving Perth on 14-4 from 9 overs.

Patrick replaced Stan and bowled a tight two over spell with good rhythm while young 'guest' player Rehman (Perth had a 12th man, St A only had 10, so we were given a player) surprised his former teammates on the boundary with some quick pace and decent bounce before collecting a well-deserved wicket of his own breaching the batsman's defensive prod. 20-5 became 21-6 as Lewis got in on the wicket-taking act, the Perth player slapping the ball straight to Stefan at mid-wicket. Andy, Sam and Stefan all got some confidence-boosting overs under their belt as Phil shuffled his bowling attack round, Stefan taking the last wicket courtesy of a stumping by Ross. Angus came on to bowl the final over (leaving Ross as the only St Andrews player not to have a bowl) and looked to add variety with a selection of googlies, wrong-uns, leggies, flippers, zooters and whatdyacallthems. Sadly (amusingly?), the small child at the other end had other ideas and took Angus' over for 7 runs, including a lovely lofted straight drive, Perth closing on 52-7.

A quick turn-around saw Ross heading out to bat with yet another opening partner, in the form of Lewis. Ross caressed his first ball to the boundary and then set about scoring 1s and 2s to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Lewis proved an able foil, the highlight being a glorious square drive to the point boundary for 4, before Ross called Lewis for a tight single - the resulting run out leaving St Andrews on 30-1 as Lewis departed for a solid 11. Ross retired shortly after on 25* leaving Andy and Angus to wave their bats outside off stump for a few balls before some good running, led by Angus, and hitting saw SAUSCC almost to the target. The loss of Angus to another run out and Andy to a catch could not derail the victory train, and an agreement was struck up for St Andrews to bat out the 20 overs no matter what, allowing Sam and Stefan some valuable time at the crease, finishing on 69-3 from the 20 overs.

All in all, a good-spirited victory where everybody was able to contribute and hopefully a confidence boost ahead of the weekend visit to Strathmore in the league.

Strathmore, 11th July 2015

A trip to Forfar saw St Andrews feeling rather hard-done to to come away with a 6 point haul following a battling and committed performance against a Strathmore team who had cantered to victory in the game earlier in the season.

Strathmore won the toss and opted to field first, meaning makeshift opener Angus was sent out to the crease with Alyn. Met with some accurate bowling the early scoring rate was slow, but Angus did his job of blunting the opening attack before falling LBW. Joined by Stan, Al began to try to push the scoring after a watchful start, unveiling a couple of savage pulls and nice drives, before pushing a catch to mid-on not quite getting hold of another straight drive to fall for 25.

James C and Stan set about building a platform against the home off-spinners who controlled the run-rate well, waiting for the moment to launch an attack. Unfortunately the planned attack was derailed almost as soon as it began as Stan was caught and bowled by South African T. Le Roux - a quite brilliant (and almost unbelievable) diving effort plucked millimetres from the turf. This brought Frank to the crease with just a few overs remaining - a cue for James to unfurl shots all round the ground, notably sweeping the spinner McDonald for boundaries and reaching a well-deserved half-century. Some good hustling in the last couple of overs saw St Andrews pass the 150 mark to secure 4 batting points, James holing out off the last ball for a fine 65.

After tea, which scored highly in quality and quantity, but lost marks for the poor social etiquette of some opposition players jumping to the front of the queue, St Andrews set about defending a total which was thought to be 30 or so runs light.

Phil opened the bowling with a tight accurate spell, passing the edge three times in the first over, and Frank bowling with good pace at the other end. The first wicket fell as Frank got one to leave the opener just enough to tickle the top of the off stump. Whilst delighted with the wicket, this brought tormentor-in-chief Le Roux to the crease, with the memory of his 100 against us earlier in the season fresh in the mind, and he was quickly into his stride, taking 18 off one over from Phil.

Frank was replaced by Al who was finding a good length outside off stump and induced an edge from the remaining opener to James C behind the wickets. Le Roux continued to attack against Stan and quickly brought up his 50 with some powerful (and unorthodox at times) hitting as Strathmore accelerated towards their target

A moment of controversy very nearly changed the game. Le Roux attempted to paddle-sweep a ball from Stan, the ball hitting a combination of pad, body and arm and ending up in the gloves of James C. Unsighted, the umpire called 'not out' and the batsman stayed put, much to the visible annoyance of Stan. However, revenge came immediately, the next ball pinning Le Roux LBW as he fell for 64. Al (2-28) picked up another wicket to conclude an excellent spell, bowling the number 5 to leave Strathmore 4 down with about 50 still to score.

However, despite spells from Phil, Angus, James C and Rebekah, and a couple of dropped catches/missed opportunities, the 5th wicket pair shakily survived to see Strathmore home to victory and deny St Andrews any more bowling points as the rain began to fall in the gathering gloom.

A good game against a nice bunch of people, showing that we can compete with one of the better teams in the league and one that would have been very interesting indeed with another 30 runs on the board.

DHSFPXI, 25th July 2015

Having arrived in Dundee during the monsoon season, the St Andrews team immediately set about pronouncing their verdicts on the weather, ranging from “a touch unpleasant” to “apocalyptic”. Eventually the rains cleared enough that the covers could be rolled off the pitch at Dalnacraig and a reduced 35 overs a side game was agreed upon, with St Andrews winning the toss and choosing to bowl first.

Phil started very well, extracting significant swing to open up the innings with a wicket maiden. Not to be out done, Dave then responded with a double wicket maiden, leaving the score at 0 for 3, with all three wicket to fall being bowled. The batsmen manage to negotiate the rest of both Phil’s and Dave’s spells, despite continued good movement for Dave and some sharp bounce for Phil. Al and Josh were brought into the attack and despite some wayward bowling from both ends, both produced wickets. Al, having been hit over his head for six by Blair Smith replied well with a probing line, rewarded by 3 catches, two caught behind to Ross including a nonchalant one handed grab of a fast low ball, and one to a very surprised looking Stan at slip.

With the threat of rain ever-present, Stan was introduced to the attack and bowled a brief tight spell before rain final did intervene and the covers were rolled on for an early tea. After the rain break, Stan continued and spin was brought on at the other end in the form of James, who struck immediately with a stunning one handed caught and bowled, producing a significant amount of pain for his hand, and something bordering on admiration from the rest of the team. Some aggressive hitting from the numbers 9 and 10 produced a frustrating partnership, with a number of chances going just over the fielder. The partnership was broken as Dom held onto a good chance at long on off James. Dom, having now got the hang of catching, decided to wrap up the innings by taking the final catch, again off James, unfortunately it was hit nowhere near him, so he instead succeeded only in flattening Stefan as he held the catch at long off, wrapping up the Dundee innings for exactly 100.

Josh and Alyn set about building a swift but sensible reply, running well between the wickets and putting pressure on the field. Ross’s impatience to go and bat himself was soon rewarded as Al fell LBW to the left arm spin of A. Ahmed. Stan came in to join Josh and Ross was now only one wicket away from getting to bat himself. Josh and Stan continued calmly until Josh was bowled for a well-made 31. Stan fell to the last ball of Ahmed’s spell and James came in to accelerate the scoring. Adrian briefly joined James to complete the chase, but did not face.

Overall, a good bowling display despite some wayward deliveries followed by a sensible run chase.

Largo, 30th July 2015

St Andrews lost a close game to Largo on Wednesday – with it being impressive to play at all given the seemingly non-stop rain.

After a few travel issues leaving the staff with only 8 men at the start, Dave battled his way through the monsoon to strike with the first ball of the match – James taking a catch at midwicket between two large puddles. Phil was unable to get any grip on his run-up, and Josh suffered similarly, allowing Largo to make a swift start following the early setback - and 100 was raised in the 11th over, with Dave manfully bowling his 4 over-spell straight through. After an exploratory over from Stan, Dom and Christian came on to stem the flow of runs and rip the heart out of the middle-order, helped by the retiral of F. Khan. Christian’s wicket-to-wicket bowling tied the scoring down and Dom was the beneficiary as Largo attempted to attack at the other end - a good catch by Paul off a high-one.

James and Lewis provided spin options, and both were impressively tidy with the wet ball – James with a wicket through Paul’s second catch, and Lewis removing Alex Anderson LBW. A fiery over from Fahad was followed by Dom coming back to bowl the last over and pick up another wicket – Paul taking his third catch of the innings as Largo finished on 132 – an impressive comeback from StAUSCC after Largo’s start.

With the rain continuing Josh and Stan opened up steadily before Stan was pouched by Alex at extra cover off a crunching drive. Josh then fell for a run-a-ball 22 – the highlight being pick-up over midwicket for 6 – to leave the staff a 30-2 in the 6th over. With guest player Cas and Paul taking time to bed in the required rate steadily increased but some good acceleration kept StAUSCC in the hunt as the score progressed to 77 in the 15th over soon after Cas was run out with a direct hit. Fahad provided good support as Paul began to accelerate with a couple of excellent boundaries in a partnership of 37. However, the loss of both in quick succession as the opening bowler returned in gloomy conditions derailed the chase, and despite a handy 5 run penalty bonus for the ball hitting the helmet, the chase ended ultimately short.

Perth Doocot, 2nd Angust 2015

St Andrews notched up consecutive league wins with an ultimately convincing, but at times nervy, victory at home to Perth.

Choosing to bowl first StAUSCC made, after four attempts to deliver the first legitimate ball, an excellent start. Some hostile bowling from Phil led to an ill-advised cut shot that was excellently snaffled in the gully by Stan. This was soon followed by a caught and bowled as the dangerous Armstrong got a leading edge back to Phil, and a caught behind chance to give Phil the first 3 wickets in a spell of 3-8. With Dave getting his first wicket Perth were left at 18-4 and StAUSCC were on top.

However, with a few loose overs Perth began to up the rate and look slightly more comfortable, progressing the score onto 54 with no further loss. Stan was brought on for a change of pace in a move that immediately paid dividend – chucking one slightly wider as the batsman advanced for James to complete the stumping.

Al began to bowl a tighter line and straight after drinks was rewarded with a wicket - Phil taking a good catch in the outfield, before Al jagged one back to get his second wicket lbw. With James coming out from behind the stumps to replace Stan (who bowled a 7 over spell for just 11 runs) he was to take a wicket courtesy of a catch by Stefan in the covers – despite Stefan proclaiming halfway through that he couldn’t see the ball. Dave came back on to finish the innings, Dom taking two catches behind the stumps, as Perth were bowled out for 108.

After a tea resplendent with smoked salmon and cake-based goodness, Josh and Al set out to the job in hand. With both calling through some swift runs, the benefit of some extras, and Al pulling one impressively to the boundary, a good start was made until one ambitious single too many saw Al run-out for 14 from just 13 balls.

Stan and Josh continued to bat grittily on a pitch that was seemingly getting worse and proceeded to take us to 44. However, a clatter of wickets sent nerves through the assorted crowd as Stan, Paul and Josh (after battling away for a valuable 17) all fell LBW, with James being clean-bowled in between to leave us at 66-5. Callum showed some good intent and helped steady the ship with the second longest stay of our innings as he made his way to 14 before being bowled by the returning opening bowler. Dom and Sam then put on 32 in the highest partnership of the innings - Sam showing impressive grit as he blunted the increasingly agitated opening bowler, as well as hooking him away for some more runs to the total. With the introduction of Perth’s 5th bowler a flurry of wides either side of a full-toss helped to the boundary saw the target come quickly into site. Finally, with 3 left to win, Dom drove one through the covers for four to complete the job.

A good team performance with the bat in difficult conditions – Josh doing well to hang in there, and Callum and Sam helping to guide the chase home – to back up an excellent opening spell from Phil and some good catching all round.

Forthill, 5th August 2015

St Andrews lost a close game to Forthill on Wednesday, chasing in almost complete darkness.

StAUSCC opened the bowling with their equivalent of the Australian attack – the short hostile stuff from Stan, and the wayward left arm of Josh. Stan saw off the two Forthill openers – one bowled, the other caught, with James taking a catch at slip, after being moved to the right spot the ball before. Phil took a good catch at mid-off after a waist high full toss from Josh was flat-batted to him. Patrick then entered the attack and tested the batsmen outside the off-stump, Alyn taking a caught-behind after one was nicked. The batsmen then began to settle in, and the scoring rate increased, as the gloom settled in. A small shower led to a brief interlude as the covers were brought on.

As it got gloomier, James and Lewis provided spin options towards the end for the second week in a row. They again exercised some nice control, but were unfortunate to finish wicketless, as Forthill finished on 130 for 4, with the number 3 batsman McConnachie ending on 57*.

A combination of clean striking from Alyn and wayward bowling from the Forthill openers saw St Andrews off to a good start. Both openers played hook shots from head-high beamers, as it got darker. Josh was bowled behind his legs and Stan arrived at the crease. Him and Al continued to score quickly, until Al was bowled off his pads for a run-a-ball 25. 12 of Stan’s 13 runs came from three 4s cut backwards of square, before he became the only St Andrews batsman of the innings not to be bowled – brilliantly caught by a diving slip. Paul and Stefan joined the group of batsmen to be bowled for low scores as coming out to bat became increasingly difficult as the light deteriorated. This, however, did not stop James playing a lovely straight drive for four down the ground on his way to 14 from 10, as Adrian played himself in at the other end. Once James fell, Patrick joined Adrian at the crease, and both hit the ball into gaps and accelerated the St Andrews rate, as umpires, fielders, and batsmen struggled to see the ball. Patrick fell in the penultimate over, and Adrian provided a few big hits in the final over, one going for four as none of the fielders moved, but it was a little too late as StAUSCC finished 16 runs short, with Adrian not out on 19.

Forthill, 8th August 2015

St Andrews recorded their biggest ever league win on Saturday with a crushing victory over Forthill to hold on to third in the league.

After being put in to bat StAUSCC made a free-scoring start – with Josh taking 3 boundaries in the first over. However, both openers had gone by the time the score moved on to 33 – Josh bowled for 17 and Al pulling one to square leg. That was the be the last joy for Forthill though for another 173 runs as Ross and James put together a huge partnership that took the game way beyond the opposition.

After a circumspect start, the runs started flowing for both and they soon forced the field back to allow them to take runs without risk whilst still scoring at 5 an over. Only the attempts to up the run-rate even further caused wickets to fall – Ross being stumped for 71 which included 7 boundaries as the score went to 206-3. A brief innings from Stan was notable for him running consecutive ‘3s’ and by this point James had completed a chanceless hundred – finally ended caught on the boundary for 107 from 117 balls with 11 boundaries.

With the score at 230 for 5 it was left to a swift partnership of 34 between Dom and Jamie to take the score to 250 and beyond - Dom being run-out coming for a risky second off the penultimate ball of the innings, having made 30 off just 15 balls.

An excellent first over from Phil set the tone for the innings as he beat the bat repeatedly with pace and movement. After he and Dave both opened with maidens the first wicket came clean bowled, soon followed by the second as a hurried pull shot was excellently taken running back by Ross. Dave safely pouched a thick edge at short third man and Phil’s 4th wicket came from another outside edge taken by Dom at first slip - he was finally rested after a 7 over spell that brought 4 wickets for just 1 run –with 6 maidens. From the other end Dave gained reward by beating the inside edge for another bowled as any chance Forthill had of chasing the total was blown away.

With Stan on at first change he made an immediate impact, before Al’s first ball was put down in the slips. However, he had a wicket by the end of the over, Sam taking the catch at square leg - and followed this up with a second wicket, a quicker one rushing through the batsman to bowl him. Stan finished the game off with figures of 3-12 as Stefan completed an excellently judged catch in the outfield.

An excellent all round performance with everyone contributing – but James, Ross and Phil leading the way.

Falkland, 12th August 2015

An enjoyable game against a friendly Falkland side saw STAUSCC losing by 35 runs under blue skies (and in a swarm of midges).

Fielding first, Francis and Angus opened up against a couple of Falkland’s first XI players with anything pitched up being dispatched straight back down the ground, or to the short boundary on one side of the wicket. Francis found a good line and length to bowl a tidy spell with some real pace, beating the bat on occasion. Angus, playing his first game after a lengthy break, showed some rustiness at first, but settled into a nice rhythm by his third over, also inducing a play and miss. Falkland retired their opening pair as Patrick came on to bowl an excellent spell probing outside the off-stump, his four overs going for just 11, which, in the context of the game, was a fantastic effort. Numbers 3 and 4 were also both retired as we entered the final 4 overs. Lewis took our first wicket, bowling the number 6 and Graham took a wicket in the final over courtesy of a good catch at mid-off from Patrick. A very solid fielding effort, including a couple of good stops on the boundary from newcomer Paul L kept Falkland to 132 from their 18 overs – the game reduced as no-one wanted to end batting in the dark like at Forthill last week.

Phil and Paul S strode to the crease to open the STAUSCC innings in a new-look opening partnership, but after cracking two boundaries in his first four balls, Phil was bowled for 9. Sam and Paul put on 27 for the second wicket before Paul got a good one from the Falkland bowler and was castled for 8. Wickets fell at regular intervals as Graham (8) and Sam (11) got out whilst trying to increase the scoring rate. Francis smote a few blows to the short boundary and Stefan manfully ran the singles to get Francis back on strike as plenty of runs were plundered from the final couple of overs, but STAUSCC were never up with the rate faced with some energetic fielding and young, enthusiastic, accurate bowling. Francis ended with an unbeaten 24* and Stefan on 6*.

Overall, a good run-around and chance for a few guys to spend a bit of time getting back into the swing of things as the last three crunch weeks of the league season come around. We have no more Wednesday friendlies lined up at the moment, so thanks to everyone who has turned out to play a game for the team on a Wednesday this year!

Kinross-shire, 16th August 2015

Another sunny day, another home game, and another victory for STAUSCC - although this win saw the home team stumble over the winning line, rather than the altogether more comfortable victory that had looked on the cards for long periods of the game. A 4th consecutive win and 5th in the last 6 league games maintains the push for a 3rd-place finish with the visit of Stoneywood-Dyce and a trip to Forthill all that remains.

The decision of the groundsman to cover the wicket on C1 was vindicated as a good looking strip, with something for bowlers and batsmen alike, greeted both captains at the toss and doing enough to convince both to revert to type - St Andrews bowled first.The decision of the groundsman to cover the wicket on C1 was vindicated as a good looking strip, with something for bowlers and batsmen alike, greeted both captains at the toss and doing enough to convince both to revert to type - St Andrews bowled first.

Phil opened with a maiden, hoping to continue his good form of recent weeks, but was left to play the support role as James Crooks tore through the Kinross top order. James, only opening the bowling as Dave had arrived late due to car trouble, took the prize wickets of James J Ross LBW (4) and soon followed it up next over by bowling Taylor for 0 as the two batsmen who scored 50s against us earlier in the season were accounted for significantly earlier. James was not done there - a second wicket in the over courtesy of an excellent pouch high above his head by Patrick saw off Watson, and when James bowled Conway, Kinross-shire were 8-4 and James had bowled a triple-wicket maiden. By the time both openers finished their opening spells, beating the bat on numerous occasions and unlucky to not be further rewarded, Kinross-shire had made it to 14-4 from 13 overs.

Al replaced James and settled into a nice line, taking advantage of the rebuilding job being done by opener Weir and keeper Lopez to keep a lid on the scoring rate. Bowling his 9 overs straight through, Al returned figures of 2 for 4, with seven maidens and just the one run coming off the bat. Al's first wicket came when Stan took a sharp catch at gully, and his second bowling Murdoch with the score progressing to 50-6. Dave and Francis both bowled some testing lines from the other end beating the bat, whilst the increasingly confident Weir was beginning to pounce on anything slightly short to punch square of the wicket.

Phil returned and claimed his first wicket, bowling McCreanor with a full one after a couple of wayward balls short and down leg had started his spell, whilst Stan replaced Al. Roe joined Weir at the crease, and after inexplicably allowing his first ball from Phil to hit him on the body without moving, he played the support role, shepherding Weir to a well made half-century. James came back on to finish off from the Sports Centre end looking to complete a five-wicket haul, but it was Stan who made the breakthrough, bowling Weir (69) and J. McCreanor in consecutive balls. Hat-trick ball successfully negotiated, there was just time for Al (just getting fingertips to a chance) and Phil (doing a Herschelle Gibbs) to just miss opportunities to give Stan a third wicket, allthewhile allowing James C a crack at the number 11 in his final over - the fourth ball doing the trick, Ross taking a skied chance to give James figures of 8.4-2-24-5.

After a tea where, believe it or not, there were too many sandwiches, supplemented by a pair of excellent cakes and other treats dropped of by the newly-married James Threlfall following his wedding the day earlier (congratulations James), STAUSCC set about chasing 118 for victory. Al fell early, mistiming a pull shot to square leg, but Ross and Stan combined nicely to set a good pace, consistently piercing the infield for comfortable 2s. However, just as the middle order were considering another slice of cake whilst enjoying the batting on show, both Ross (caught at slip for 16) and Stan (played on for 19) fell to put two new batsmen to the crease as the Kinross slow bowlers/spinners began to apply some pressure. When James C miscued straight up in the air on the off-side for just 4, STAUSCC were 54-4 with the run-rate slowing.

Dom and Paul S kept things ticking over for a while, compiling a steady 24 run partnership before Paul watched the ball trickle agonisingly into his off-stump having rebounded off both pads first. 78-5 became 83-6 as Dom was stumped trying to use his feet to the spin of JJ Ross and things on the boundary edge were becoming tense. Needing 35 to win off 13 overs, Francis and Phil ran hard at any opportunity and took advantage of a couple of lives from the fielding team to slowly ease St Andrews to within 11 runs of the target when Phil played back to one that stayed a little low and was bowled by the impressive Weir for 11. It was left to Dave to enter, smite a mighty blow straight down the ground for 4, and leave again - but that one shot did the damage, allowing Stefan to calmly play out a maiden before Francis hit the winning runs through cover to end unbeaten on 18 from 56 balls and see his side home.

A very pleasing result with more than a little tension in the end, but these were the kind of games we were finding ways to lose last year so it was nice to squeeze over the line with every single player doing something in the match to contribute to the victory again.

The day's entertainment was not yet complete, as one team member (who shall remain nameless) discovered he had misplaced his house/office keys. A thorough check of all kitbags, changing rooms and the tea room yielded no success, so Patrick ordered a sweep of the ground. All 11 players spread out across the pitch akin to a police line searching for evidence of keys, perhaps to be located on a good length outside off-stump, but sadly to no avail.

Key-search abandoned, it was time to hit the Whey Pat and dissect the number of permutations as to how we could have maybe contrived to possibly lose the game in slightly different circumstances on another day...

Stoneywood-Dyce, 23rd August 2015

StAUSCC’s run of league victories was halted at 4 by the league champions Stoneywood Dyce, but not before a fine performance had given brief sight of victory.

Being put in to bat on a green-tinged and damp pitch, Alyn and Ross set about their task of blunting the Dyce opening bowlers – something admirably achieved as only one chance was given in a partnership of 26 in a shade under 20 overs - eventually Al was out caught off a full-toss but not before he had done the job of making it through to the change bowlers. Ross was also unable to make the most of the change bowling, lbw to leave us 31-2.

Stan started with good intent before a mix-up saw him run out stranded mid-pitch without his bat and Dom came in to join James with the score on 45. The pair proceeded to put on the biggest partnership of the innings, making the most of the friendlier offerings of the spin bowlers as they put on 32 together, gradually accelerating before James edged a cut behind for 18. Frank continued to show his good form but was clean bowled by the returning opening bowler, who also accounted for Phil - though only after Phil had made him even more irate by smearing him for 3. Dom fell run out coming back for an ambitious second in the last over having made 34 off 45 balls, before Dave became the third run out of the innings – going off the last ball as he and Pat attempted to take a bye.

A couple of early boundaries from Conradie saw Stoneywood off to a quick start but James continued his reinvention as an opening bowler with an excellent 9 over spell, with Dave offering tight control at the other end, as Dyce were reduced to 48-4. James ended with a 4-wicket haul, ably backed up by some fine catching – Francis taking a leading edge at cover, Al with a diving effort at point, James himself with a caught and bowled, and Dom with a one-handed grab at slip.

StAUSCC continued to bowl tightly with no further reward until Phil returned for his second spell and soon gained a wicket – hitting the batsman with a short ball before clean bowling him next ball with one pitched up. James then took a catch low-down at midwicket off Al, who again bowled tightly and beat the bat consistently, to leave Stoneywood at 78-6 and still 35 from victory. Unfortunately that was to be the last wicket, with some shots just looping over or past fielders StAUSCC were unable to make another breakthrough.

An excellent team performance again with some gritty batting, good bowling, and excellent fielding .

Forthill, 30th August 2015

St Andrews finished their league season with another convincing victory, despite a spirited late fightback from Forthill.

After being put in to bat Al fell early before Ross and Stan showed some excellent awareness and running on their way to a 50 partnership as StAUSCC ticked along at about 5 runs an over. It was a surprise when Stan fell, hitting one straight back to the Forthill spinner for 13. James opened his account with a glorious back-foot cover drive and was moving along easily at a run a ball whilst Ross was continuing to rack up runs as he passed 50, manipulating the ball into the gaps well as the score progressed to 124-2.

However, quick wickets saw StAUSCC dragged back to 144 -5, James with a fine edge behind to fall for 28, Dom beaten by his own ineptitude, and Ross pinned lbw to end his excellent innings of 67 off just 80 balls. Paul and Francis both started cautiously as they consolidated – but ended up with the third 50 partnership of the innings, made in 13 overs. Francis continued his good form before he was bowled by the returning opening bowler for 24 as the last 5 overs saw the push for quick runs – Phil hitting a quick 13 before being run out coming back for a second, and Paul falling off the penultimate ball off the innings as he played on, finishing with a well-made 27 including a couple of excellent sweeps to the boundary. Pat ensured we reached 225, finishing his innings with a strike-rate of 100…

In response Forthilll started comfortably enough against the opening bowlers after losing an early wicket to a run out – Al with the fielding. They had moved on to 33 off 8 overs before an unfortunate incident saw one of the batsman hit on the head with a full ball, causing him to retire hurt . After a delay for the arrival of the ambulance Dave ripped out the middle order in a superb spell of bowling – rewarded for targeting the stumps with an lbw and two bowled, as well as getting one caught at slip by Dom. Al bowled tightly from the other end and gained success with the removal of the Forthill number 3 who had been progressing along despite the carnage at the other end.

Angus and Pat both settled into tidy spells, Pat taking the 8th wicket courtesy of Stan’s continuing good catching form at gully to leave the score at 76-8. However, once Forthill passed 100 their no. 10 batsman began to take the long-handle approach - depositing Stan’s 2nd over for 20, before hitting Phil and James for boundaries on their return to the attack. With the run-rate required falling to under 8 an over at one point, Phil and James thankfully turned the screw with some more frugal bowling, backed up by some good fielding from Angus. As Forthill tried to keep up with the rate another run-out saw their captain removed - Alyn again doing well. Fittingly Dave returned to finish the innings off with the big hitting Girolami well caught by Francis in the deep to give St Andrews the win, and Dave a five-fer.

A good end to an excellent season, with St Andrews securing third in the league.

Dollar, 6th September 2015

StAUSCC found themselves in the usual position of bowling first in their penultimate game of the season. With a shortened 35 over match, the opening bowlers Reiss and Dilley bowled well and with control - restricting both batsmen’s scoring opportunities. In the 8th over, Frank made the breakthrough - rewarded after 20 consecutive dot balls with a jaffa taking the top of off-stump. Frank and Ben’s spells ended with the score at 16-1 (10 ovs). Frank showing exceptional figures of 5-5-0-1.

The change in bowlers brought more scoring opportunities, though these were thanks to the number of extras rather than runs off the bat - Graham and Luke initially struggling to control the swing on offer. The second wicket eventually fell to Graham with a low full toss chipped straight back to him, 34-2 (15). Runs continued to accumulate before Pat managed to break the 44 run partnership between Dollar’s numbers 3 and 4, leaving the score on 78-3 (25.1). The last 10 overs saw wickets fall with regularity thanks to James T; 4-0-12-3 (getting some wicked spin that often did for both batsmen and Ross behind the stumps!), Pat; 6-0-22-2 and Dominic Paris Bransden; 1-0-1-1 (in a vain effort to sneak up to the top of the leading wicket takers). Innings break 107-8 or 109-8 depending on which bit of the scorebook you look at! A compromise of 108-8 was the total to beat. 3.11 rpo to win.

Catches for Stefan x2, and Graham.

An excellent tea brought some excellent spectators in the form of Graham and Frank’s friends and extra Dalton’s - who seemed to bring enough alcohol along to start up St Andrews newest bar. Openers Josh and Ross began the seemingly straightforward chase, getting off to a slow start due to Josh’s shin splints and Ross’s incapability to score at a strike rate of more than 25 at the beginning of an innings; 6-0 after 5. The scoring rate increased (not that it could really decrease!) with both Ross and Josh beginning to find gaps and running well, until Ross was unlucky to be caught at 2nd slip after being parried by the wicketkeeper for 25. Stefan’s short stay at the crease was ended by one that kept a little low, and brought Frank into bat. Josh and Frank put on 15 together, before Josh was given out to the same bowler who Stefan (1) fell to LBW for 23, 68-3 (22). Needing 41 from 13 overs and with the expansive Dalton and Dilley there was no panic among the STAUSCC players or the supporters (mainly as half of them didn’t really know what cricket was, other than a good excuse to sunbathe and booze. Some of the supporters hadn’t heard of cricket either). Unfortunately Graham didn’t last long, falling for 2, which as his mother pointed out, “wasn’t very good”.

Ben (3) and James (3) both participated in good partnerships with Frank before being bowled, 103-6 (33.5). Needing 6 from the final 7 deliveries, Frank levelled the scores and Fahad was unfortunate to be stumped dancing down to try and pierce the infield for the final run. Dom promoted himself expecting to take all the glory, but managed to wander past one that bowled him round his legs (déjà vu anyone??) 108-8 plays 108-8. Unfortunately the opposition weren’t accommodating to the suggestion of a super over!

Largo, 13th September 2015

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