Match 1. May 1st- Away to Pulborough 4ths
Report - Chris Hazlehurst
A picturesque Watersfield was the venue for the historic return of Manor’s 2nd XI led by a rejuvenated Rooby Murray.
A strong line up, due to the lack of a first team game, were bristling with enthusiasm to get out there and start the season, oh, except Fudgey who rolled up late, wearing shades.
Salt and Hazlehurst were the two trusty steeds sent out to face the, mostly Kiddywinks, might of Pulborough 4th’s. They set about rapidly compiling a whirlwind opening gambit, this approach was quickly tempered as they couldn’t get it off the square. They got moving in fits and starts though, one Caribbean style Salty flick (whoops I accidently typed fluke there) to the rope a highlight, admittedly less Clive Lloyd more Levi Roots.
After batting in the rain for half an hour and coming off for six minutes these two had moved the hand operated electronic scoreboard onto 96 before Hazy (41) spooned one to point. Salty(43) was missing his buddy so gave the boy Rocky his prize scalp. Chris could remember this particular scallywag running around at Pulborough when he was just a boy, I’m afraid he still is Chris.
This blip brought Smith and Baker together prompting Terry Griffin to exclaim, ‘That’s an impressive pair of arses out there.’ Well one of those couple of arses was soon to be parked back in the hutch after Shops, very un-Shopslike, admitted he didn’t mind getting out to a ball like that, it did loads apparently, well at least the bowler agreed with him.
While Dave was bashing eight fours in his 57 in 66 minutes, Beefy showed why he is fave for the 2’s batting cup in spanking a quick 22 (3x4 1x6) before the birthday boy was adjudged LB by new ump silver surfer Ken, who to the amusement of the rest of the team happily informed Beefs he hadn’t given anyone out LBW for 30 years! No ball!
Anyway this brought new boy Brad Hunt to the middle, he looked good and matched Smithy in a breezy 50 run partnership before holing out for 28.
Voicey(13*) and Roobs(6*) quickly saw us declare at 236-6 from 48 overs and it was inside to demolish a tasty tea of cricket bread, crispy things and strawberry brillup.
So to the 4thsters reply, this half is made a little difficult due to some questionable scoring from our young oppo’s, their opener hitting five fours in his 19 an example.
Dick Crown and the skip opened up and it was the former(4-27) who was quickly snaffling away with a couple of long hops proving fruitful, however a run out involving Salty, Roobs and Mr C (yes honest) saw off their man opener.
Boys came and went, one swiped at three Brown pearlers, missed the 4th straight one and proceeded to wang his bat to the boundary. Village.
A bit of amusement was provided by Luckhurst, it wasn’t to be young Lovebird’s day, even though he had been treated to an earlier ‘birthday present’ his catch at point was judged not out by both umpires and most of his team to his chargrin. I thought you caught it Beefs. X
Pulborough’s best bat strode out at number 9 and unluckily set about edging one onto his own snozzcumber when fed up a Fudge pie for din dins. Ow.
A bit more fun in the field was to be had, namely Dorothy Stang prancing back to fine leg impressing with marvellous rendition of ‘over the rainbow’, wrong Dorothy Tel. However the dead nun finished with figures of 1-7, not bad after being smited for four fours by the returning blooded warrior. Note more bad scoring.
Two more wicks were required when Ken showed good foresight in remarking the crease after Rocky surprisingly picked a nice clip off his legs, only to fall to a clean bit of Voicey work behind the stumps giving Spamalot Gunn another well deserved 2-for. His young mate Brad bowled 5 tidy overs too, a Flame boy-esque likeness can only mean good things for the Manor.
The game was up soon after when a wily Ruby(1-7?) claimed he didn’t know the rules, ruthlessly removing Fudgey from the attack after his tenth over, then bringing himself back to castle the Pulborough opening bowler thus claiming a comfortable Manor win by 142 runs.
He duly informed his happy band in the showers the last time he could recall a 2nd team success the millennium bug was rearing it’s ugly head! That came to nothing, surely the same won’t be said of the 2’s charge to the double digit division title!
Off to the Labouring Man for Rooby’s Roobarbarians and a well deserved slurp, with a bit of average checking of 2nd XI stats for good measure. Terry left early though slightly worried he might incur the wrath of the Welfare Officer if he didn’t return the two lads safely home.
An enjoyable first league game of the season, played in good sprits by all bodes well for the rest of the campaign as long as we can get 22 out each week so come on and support your two skippers!!
See you in August
Match 2. May 8th- Home to Three Bridges 6ths
Report - Steve Luckhurst
Our opponents decided to wait until 12 midday on saturday to tell us they had 6 players. Manor gain the 30 points and stay top of Div 10, however, the 11 players for the 2nds were along with the rest of the club somewhat disappointed, as this would have been the first time since 2005 that we had 2 XI's playing. It was a great effort having 22 ready to play. Bodes well for the rest of the summer.
Match 3. May 15th- Away to Ram 3rds
Report - Steve Luckhurst
I guess all the 'boding' of the previous report was a tad premature - with injury/football/other commitments, we were a handful short ourselves this week. Minus 8 points means the 2nd XI are now off top spot in the table!. Here's to two XI's next weekend.
Match 4. May 22nd - Home to Horsham 4ths
Report - Andy Murray
Manor 2’s took to the field for the first time in 3 weeks since the away victory over Pulborough 4th’s with a full complement of 11 players which was a good effort considering the 1st’s also had a match and there were at least another 2 or 3 others that were available, Horsham 4th’s were the opposition. It must be pointed out Manor were fielding at least 3 debutants in messrs Dan Tuppen, Andrew Ferguson and 13 yr old Matt Firkins, I assume Steven Livermore has played if not that’s 4 and also a returning Andy Long for his match in a few years.
The weather was hot, in fact it was the hottest day at the Manor since the last one which apparently was about 8 months ago. The crowd was building in anticipation of a cracking encounter, mostly boosted by parents/grandparents etc of 7 Horsham players who were under 15 but there was also a fair few supporting Manor with family and friends and friend of friends etc etc soaking up the rays, drinking too much wine and being sick! It must be pointed out the Horsham team featured 3 Humphreys who were Dad Brian, Son and captain Josh and Mum (yes Mum) Jo, first for me I must admit!!
Horsham captain Josh called heads correctly and decided to insert Manor on what looked a green (but true) looking wicket, I guess being plastic the manufacturers could have made it any colour but green it was probably to make it grass colour, out strode captain Ruby Murray and Mr C to start the manor innings.
Unfortunately the skip missed a full straight one from opposition skip Josh in the 3rd over to depart for 2 which brought Longey to the crease, he helped steady the ship with Voicey until with the score on 54, Mr C was caught for 21 (passing 500 2nd XI runs along the way) giving young leggy Tye his first wicket of the match, not often you see a leggy bowling from the Potter end but apparently one or two turned up the hill. Ross Garnham was next in and with Longey now into his stride, both batsmen started peppering the boundary like it was a nice piece of rib eye steak ready for the griddle until Ross was C&B’d by Noah Chinn for a rapid 39 (1 x 6 and 6 x 4) with the score on 125.
Brad Hunt came in at 5 but next to depart was Longey when, after a fluid 44 as if he’d never been away, he became Noah Chinns 2nd victim of the day, 134-4. Debutant Dan Tuppen came in at 6, smacked a couple of 4’s, refused an easy single and was promptly bowled next ball ‘doing a Kieswetter’ for 8 by Noah Chinn , 146-5. Another debutant Andrew Ferguson came in at 7 but Brad soon departed for 11 with the score still on 146 when he became Tye’s 2nd wicket of the day.
Sam Gunn was in at 8 but with 3 singles to his name was cleaned up by Tye for his 3rd wicket, 159-7. Young Matt Firkins on debut didn’t last long or trouble the scorers getting caught off the bowling of Vickers, he goes on to the long list of players getting a duck on debut, 164-8. Steven Livermore was in at 10 and he kept Andrew Ferguson company before he was bowled for 8 by Will Chase with the score on 197 but had played an important role in a 33 run partnership.
Tel was last in but the last wicket to fall was Ferguson (LBW to Chase) for an entertaining 32 inc. 2 x big 6’s (one over long on) and 4 x 4’s, I’m sure Smithy’s text to him before the game telling him “not to worry as plenty of people get a duck on debut” got an appropriate response back. Manor finished on what was surely a competitive 216 after 40.4 overs which included 42 extras, the 8 extra overs conceded to Horsham meant they needed to chase 217 from 53 overs.
A hearty tea provided by Tel was tucked into by all, when I say all I mean all and there was so much to go round any family, friends, spectators, passing dog walkers etc were invited in to help themselves, good effort! Mrs Ruby then went in to wash up as we went out to field so big thanks to her, what a fantastic wife I have!
Big hairy Aussie Schadt (think fusion of Andrew Symonds, Tina Turner and Sideshow Bob) and Tye opened for Horsham in their reply with Ruby Murray and Brad Hunt sharing the new ball, Brad soon sent Tye back to the hutch bowling him for 0, 6-1. This brought skipped Josh Humphreys to the crease. He and Schadt steadied things up before Tel had Schadt LBW for 23. Dan Tuppen replaced Murray from the Potter end and soon got his first wicket bowling no.4 Turnbull for 0 and then got his 2nd inducing no.5 Lowis to smack one to Brad at mid on for 2. Sam had replaced Tel at the other end and ended up with 3 for 20 off 9 which included no. 6 Humphreys senior for 8 (caught by Garnham), Zach Chinn at no. 7 for 4 (bowled around his legs) and the skip Josh Humphreys for c&b’d for 53 (his maiden 50).
Young Steven Livermore had by now replaced Dan Tuppen at the Potter end and he was soon in the wickets claiming the scalps of no. 8 Chase for 7 caught by Tuppen at point and no. 9 Vickers for 8, a ridiculous juggling effort by Ruby Murray at short midwicket who, having parried the ball above his head with his right hand, proceeded to juggle the ball from one hand to the other in a vain attempt to catch it before falling to the floor and finally taking the catch with a combination of hands and stomach. Word soon got round there was a new bouncy castle on the Manor and kids were soon cueing up to take their shoes off, pay a pound and bounce on Ruby’s stomach for 5 mins, alright I made that bit up because obviously our welfare officer would never allow it.
With the score on about 140-9 and with probably another (potentially) 20 overs to bowl, a Manor victory was surely in the bag and only moments away, or so we thought! This was before no. 10 (young Hugo Vickers) and no. 11 (not so young) Mrs. Jo Humphreys decided to anchor down to try and hang on for a draw.
Gunn from one end and Hunt (Brad, not “fire up the Quattro” Gene) from the other couldn’t break the partnership as the over’s ticked down, Tuppen replaced Gunn from the leisure centre end and proceeded to beat the outside edge of the bat as he had done all afternoon with some top bowling on debut, even Mrs Humphreys declared after one such delivery it was too good for her. One outside edge flew to Tel at point but he couldn’t take the catch above his head to win the match.
Ruby then replaced Brad from the Potter end with about 9 overs to go to try and force the win but over after over ticked by and it looked like Manor were going to snatch a draw from the jaws of victory. Just when the breakthrough was looking like it wasn’t going to come, it did when in the 51st over, Ruby Murray got one to jag back from outside off stump and castle young Vickers for a battling 8 leaving Mrs. Humphreys N.O on 10, Horsham were all out for 156 giving Manor victory by 60 runs with just 15 ball of the match remaining.
Good effort all round by the Manor, firstly to get to a competitive total and then to bowl and field well making it difficult for Horsham to ever seriously chase down the victory target, 3 or 4 catches were put down which may have ended the match earlier than it did and probably should have done but we kept going all the way until victory was assured. Special mention to Long, Garnham and Ferguson for helping set the total and then the 6 bowlers used who all got in the wickets although Sam’s 3-20 off 9 was the pick, he was also unlucky not to take a catch with a flying effort in the covers that didn’t quite stick.
Drinking time was surely comprised by the match going on for an hour longer than it should have done but the lads will learn, especially when they’re old enough to drink, that just left Tel wondering over post match drinks in the Potter who was the new Dorothy, I don’t watch the programme but I found out later it was Danielle as by then I was also curious.
Hopefully Manor 2’s follow the yellow brick road and turn in many more performances like this through the season.
Match 5. May 29th- Away to St Andrews 3rd
Report - Steve Luckhurst
Rain! - The 2nd XI had the 3rd match of 5 cancelled, this time due to rain, rain and more rain. The call didn't come until mid-day but as it turned out the rain continued through the afternoon too. Be good to get back on the field!
Match 6. June 5th- Home to Felbridge & Sunnyside 3rd XI
Report - Andy Murray
Manor 2’s returned to action at a sun backed Manor after the previous weeks soggy washout at St Andrews to take on Felbridge and Sunnyside 3’s, Manor were fielding 3 debutants inc. Barry Firkins (father of 13yr old Matt) for his first game of cricket in 14 years, 12 yr old Steven Chadwick for his first game in 12 years and Lee Garnham (cousin of Ross), not for the first time this season introductions were needed so everyone knew who each other was, maybe we could get some labels with names on.
Ruby Murray and the opposition skip strode out to the middle for the obligatory flip of the coin which on this occasion was a 50p in case you’re interested , F&S skip called incorrectly and Ruby decided to get everybody in the game straight away by opting to have a bowl, which given the searing heat and the fact he was at least two bowlers down with Brad Hunt and Sam Gunn in the 1st XI, was an interesting choice to make. (NB- Sam bowled one over for the 1st..Brad didn't).
Ruby opened up down the hill and the decision to bowl first looked even more ridiculous when he bowled like a turd against both the left and right handed openers for over after over, very occasionally pitching the ball and even once or twice managing to bowl straight, fudgy thankfully bowled better from the other end.
When the breakthrough came surprisingly it wasn’t fudgy that got it, instead Ruby managed to induce the left hand opener Pelling on 11 to drive on the half volley straight to Lee Garnham in the covers to snaffle his maiden Manor catch.
The next wicket down was the other opener James when Murray bowled one of his rare straight balls rapping him on the pads, the umpire agreed with all the appeals and raised his finger to send him back to the hutch for an enterprising 62 which earlier had included a clear edge to Voicey of Ruby but he didn’t walk and the umpire stood motionless, maybe the LBW decision was his way of making up for it. After bowling 10 overs for 52 runs and 2 wickets Ruby took himself off to die of exhaustion and on came Lee Garnham just a few days after having his plaster cast taken off.
Fudgy then came off for a rest himself after 10 overs for 47 runs but was unfortunate not to take a wicket or two which his spell more than deserved and was replaced by the ever green Terry Griffin. He was soon amongst the wickets when a leg side delivery got some contact off bat or glove and was taken by Voicey, it took a while for the batsmen Chauhan to walk/be given out but eventually he trudged off for 10.
Tel’s 2nd wicket came soon after when their no.5 Turner picked out Ruby at mid on for a simple catch when on 16, Lee Garnham picked up is first Manor wicket when the no.3 Starr on 38 picked out Fudgy at square leg off a hip high full toss. F&S skip Steve Lovell was in at 6 and he steadied the ship with the bad balls being put away. Tel got his 3rd wicket when another LBW decision went Manor’s way with Gowan at 7 leaving the scene for just 1.
Aldridge at 8 didn’t trouble the scorers when he was clean bowled by Terry for his 4th wicket, Manor had clearly learnt from the last home game that if the stumps are put in properly and the gap between is slightly smaller than the ball then there is no chance of Tel clean bowling someone and not dislodging the bails, even more galling was Voicey just watching the ball go past him for 2 byes expecting as you would the stumps to be rearranged and the batsmen being out, anyway that was a different game but I forgot to mention it in that report!!
Lee Garnham had a rest after 9 overs that resulted in 65 runs being conceded for 1 wicket, plenty of wides but this will only improve now his cast is off and can attend nets and play more matches. Lee was replaced by Steven Chadwick who bowled quite tidily in his 4 overs, although he conceded 34 runs there was a lot of promise and he even picked up his first Manor wicket much to his delight (and his Mum and Dad camped on the bank!), J Lovell (Skippers son I assume) batting at 9 couldn’t keep it out and the ball squirmed back onto the stumps with just enough force to dislodge the bails. No doubt Steven was nervous earlier as when I said he was next on at the Potter end he soon disappeared to the leisure centre for the toilet, bless him!!
After 45 overs, Steve Lovell decided to declare (and protect his average) finishing 57 not out with Byrne at 10 finishing 18 not out with the total on 259-8, he clearly thought 259 was enough and was happy to concede 4 overs to Manor. Tel had being sniffing his first ‘Michelle’ for the club but alas it wasn’t to be, he’ll have to be content with 4 for 42 off 12, good effort!
A top Voicey tea was enjoyed by all before Manor started their reply with Voicey and Longey opening the batting, unfortunately the reply had barely started when, with the score on just 10, Longey smashed a full toss straight to Lovell (S) fielding close at short mid on and somehow the ball stuck, Longey trudged off disbelieving for just 1, Barry Firkins came in at 3.
Voicey was his usual belligerent self and Barry was soon settling down, with the partnership on 51 Voicey was bowled by Aldridge for 32 (passing 2,500 career runs in the process) with the score on 62, Ross came in at 4 to join Barry in the middle. Unfortunately 62 for 2 became 62-3 next over when Barry also picked out Steve Lovell at close range to depart for 22, an innings which showed he can be a useful bat for Manor over the rest of the season.
This brought Ruby to the crease to join Ross with both batsmen on 0, they say a little R & R is good for you and Ross and Ruby where soon peppering the boundaries with Ruby clearing the ropes on a couple of occasions off the bowling of Chauhan, his 5th over went for a 6 and 2 x 4’s which meant he was replaced, shame I liked his bowling!
Having put 61 for the 4 wicket and with the score on 123, Ross picked out point to depart for 25 which was a shame as another ½ an hour or so of the R&R show and the opposition skip may have started to worry. Lee Garnham came in at 6 to join Ruby. This partnership didn’t last long as Ruby was bowled for 31 off the left arm over the wicket bowler Pelling who got one to swing/not bounce all that much, 127-5.
Fudgy came in at 7 but Lee Garnham was bowled soon after by Starr for 5, 129-6. Chris Lawrence was next in at 8 but it was Fudgy was next out for 2 getting caught off the bowling of Pelling, 138-7. Young Matt Firkins was in at 9 but Lawrence was next out for 6, 141-8. Tel in at 10 and Steven Chadwick at 11 were both bowled by Byrne for 0, Steven first ball, leaving Matt not out on 1 and ending the Manor inning in 146 off 33 overs therefore losing by 113 runs for the first defeat of the season.
It must be pointed out a very kind lady from F&S did a sterling job helping Voicey by clearing up after tea and doing all the washing up, thanks Mrs Lady.
A few of us then retired back to the Potter for a well earned pint except Matt and Steven Livermore who had a glass of pop as they are minors, not the sort that go down big holes in the ground digging for coal as that unfortunately is now illegal.
After that, all that was left was for Terry to talk scallops, welcome to the club Barry!
Funny, he made his excuses and made a hasty exit soon after that hopefully to be seen again if he can take our conversation!
Match 7. June 12th- Away to Worthing Chipps. 3rd XI
Report - Andy Murray
Manor 2’s took on Worthing Chippendales 3rd’s with another debutant in its ranks namely Steve Davis, right on cue he got his break! Manor were looking to get back on track having lost the previous week at home to Felbridge and Sunnyside 3’s.
Ruby called the coin toss incorrectly and the Chipps skip Paul Wood decided to have a bowl, Ruby wanted to bat first anyway so Voicey and Andy Long opened up the innings.
A fairly gentle start to the innings then ensued with Manor 28-0 of 10 overs but just as things started to pick up Longy was caught for 29 with the score on 59 in the 17 over. One brings two as they say (well Salty anyway) and with the addition of just 1 run to the total and in the same over Voicey was also caught for 15.
Barry was in at 3 and Steve Davis at 4, a period of consolidation took place with Barry keeping the scoreboard ticking over and Davis regularly finding the boundary with some powerful drives and pulls. In the 30 over and with the score on 124 Davis was caught off the bowling of skipper Wood for 39, Brad replaced him at 5.
Having hit a couple of 4’s Brad was bowled by his mate Donaldson with the score on 141 and out strode Hugo at 6. Barry was next out for 28 as he was also bowled by Donaldson, 164-5.
Ruby was in at 7 and he and Hugo put on 20 before Hugo was caught off the bowling of Anderson for 17, 184-6. A further 12 was added to the total before Ruby slashed at a wide one which deflected off the keeper standing up and was snaffled by Donaldson at 1st slip to depart for 19, 196-7. Unfortunately the last 3 wickets went down rapidly with Brown out for 2, Gunn bowled for 0 and Matt Firkins run out for 0 going for a suicidal 2nd run leaving Steven Livermore not out on 1 and bringing the Manor innings to a close at 197 in the 48 over.
This was probably 30 or 40 runs short of what it could have been given 6 or 7 batsmen got in but didn’t kick on with a bigger innings. A tea comprising of spring rolls, samosas, onion bhajis, buttered slices of baguette, pork pies, savoury eggs, scones with cream and slices of strawberries etc etc was washed down by a nice cup of strong tea before Chipps started their reply.
Ruby and Brown then opened the bowling but some erratic bowling from Ruby enabled Chipps to get off to a good start although Brown snaffled Endacott at 2 C&B’d for just 8 with the score on 21. After 5 overs of allsorts that Bertie Bassett himself would have been proud off Ruby took himself off (5 overs for 41) and was replaced by Brad who was looking to make amends against his mates having got just 8 with the bat.
Brown soon got his 2nd when Murray decided to place himself at short leg and no. 3 Cowley plopped one straight to him for just 3, 51-2. This trick was very nearly repeated the next ball when Donaldson fended his first ball up in the air but it fell agonisingly between Ruby and Brown.
Donaldson was next out though when Brad got his own back on his mate having got out to him earlier by inducing him to pick out Ruby at mid on for just 9, 76-3. The opener McKeon was next out for 58 when he was bowled by Brad with the score on 87. Brad then got his 3rd wicket when Laker at 5 got a nick on one outside off stump and the edge was taken comfortably by Longy behind the stumps for 7, 109-5.
This soon became 115-6 when Theodoridi at 6 (having earlier taken 2-18 off 8 when he bowled accounting for both Manor openers [0-11 off two overs before changing ends!]), hit a Brad delivery straight up in the air and was taken by Davis at mid on to trudge off with just 12 to his name.
Daly at 7 was next to depart for 15 having picked out Ruby at mid on off the bowling of Harding who had replaced Hunt due to him bowling his age restricted 6 over spell, 134-7. This soon became 135-8 when Mockford in at 8 also picked out Ruby at mid on (his 4th catch of the match) for 7 also off Harding. Hart at 10 was next out for 4 when Gunn got his first wicket with Davis taking his 2nd catch.
Gunn then wrapped up the innings by finding the edge of skipper Wood’s bat and Fudgey snaffled the catch in the gulley, Wood departed for 0 and the innings was closed at 144 leaving Anderson at 9 not out for 6.
Manor therefore won by 53 runs for their 3rd win of the season out of 4 matches played, good all round performance with various contributions with the bat including Davis on debut with 39, Long with 29 and Barry Firkins for 28. Ultimately it was the bowling and superb fielding that turned the screw on Chipps with Brad finishing with (Manor best I guess??) 4-29 off 6, Harding 2-12 off 4, Brown 2-27 off 6 and skipper Ruby with 4 catches.
Promotion charge is back on track, bring in Portslade 3’s next week.
Match 8. June 19th- Home to Portslade 3rd XI
Report - Andy Murray
Manor won the toss and elected to bat with Voice and Longy opening up, Longy was 1st out for 18 with the score on 40. Davies was in at 3 before departing for 21 giving leg spinner Hills a return catch with the score on 78 which brought Colin McKail to the crease for his first match in a few years. A further 10 was added to the score before Voicey was next out for 27 off the bowling of Piper, Hunt was in at 5 but he was out LBW for a duck with the score still on 88 also off the bowling of (Pied) Piper, he certainly had the manor batters dancing to his tune.
88-4 soon became 97-5 when skip Ruby Murray was caught at square leg off a chest high full toss from spinner Hills, a polite enquiry to umpire Fudge at square left regarding the validity of the ball was met with an outstretched arm stating a no ball, this was met by a strong response from Hills and various fielders claiming it wasn’t a no ball because he’s a spinner so can legally bowl up to shoulder high. Nobody including Fudgie was 100% sure of this so it was agreed that Ruby was out.
Subsequent enquiries post match in to this issue still hasn’t resolved if Portslade’s reading of this is accurate or not, umpire Ken said anything above waist high regardless of the bowling speed is a no-ball, still not sure myself but I would say to Ken, it is definitely not LBW!!
Colin McKail was going strong on his return to match action and was now joined by Liam Durr although Liam was next out for 7 with the score on 122 bring Holgate his first and only wicket. Fudgie was in at 8 and he and Colin put on 36 before Colin was adjudged LBW of Hardy (another fine mess) for a important innings of 41, 158-7.
This brought Sam Gunn in at 9 but he was soon bowled by Hills for 1, 166-8. Steven Livermore was in at 10 and he had 3 to his name before he became Hills 4th wicket, the Hills were certainly alive to the sound of Manor wickets failing, 175-9.
Steve Chadwick came in at 11 but he was the 3rd player to make a duck when he was bowled by Gander which brought the innings to a close at 189 leaving Fudgie stranded not-out for 28.
A Ruby Murray tea without any Ruby Murray on offer (unless coronation chicken counts!) was demolished by all before Manor took to the field to defend what looked a gettable a target.
Nick and Ruby opened up and were soon amongst the wickets, fall of wickets as follows: Colburn bowled Murray 16, Gravett caught Hunt bowled Brown 0, Common caught Davies bowled Murray 5, Funnell bowled Murray for a 1st ball duck, Holgate caught Durr bowled Brown 10, Hills caught Davies bowled Gunn 17, Gravett bowled Durr 4, Gander bowled Durr 1, Howard bowled Hunt 5, Piper LBW Hunt 5 with Vardy not out 0.
This resulted in Portslade being bowled out for 86 off 26 overs and a Manor win by 103 runs, great bowling and fielding effort. Bowling figures were Brown 2-26 off 8, Murray 3-20 of 6 (inc. pulled groin whilst taking 3rd wicket), Durr 2-6 off 4, Hunt 2-16 off 5 and Gunn 1-9 off 3.
Bowling figures would have been improved were it not for the Portslade umpire (their wicket keeper) making up his own no-ball rule due to the bowlers back foot not being on or over the back line, after his 4th no-ball (3 off Fudgie and 1 off Brad) we all decided to investigate with him and he advised why he was giving the no-balls, one of the Portslade batsmen backed up what we were saying that his reason for no-balling was incorrect and their skip apologised after the match!
Fudgie high on energy drinks then requested the umpire reverse one of his earlier no-ball decisions and award a plum LBW decision, it would have been funny if he wasn’t so serious in his request!!
Off to Billingshurst next week with skip Ruby Murray resting his groin injury with Voicey taking on the skippers duties.
Match 9. June 26th- Away to Billingshurst 3rd XI
Report - via his Blackberry - Nick Brown
A gloriously sunny day greeted the Manor 2's heavy mob as they rolled into Billingshurst's delightful new ground. Indeed, such was the
enormity of the facility, that it was necessary to drive from the changing rooms to the boundary itself.
Virgin skipper Owen Voice strode out to the middle with purpose, hell bent on winning his inaugural toss with gusto. Unfortunately, his lack
of experience showed and he was soundly thrashed. Oppo skipper wasted no time in choosing to bat first, clearly not keen at the prospect of
toiling in a field the size of a small county, on the hottest day ever recorded in Billingshurst.
Not to be deterred, the Manor 2's lethal bowling unit set about it's task with clinical and fearsome intent. Backed up by a squadron of well
drilled fielders, the Manor's bowling machine, spearheaded by Nick (Fudge Din Dins) Brown and Brad (The Whippet) Hunt, unleashed a barrage
of deadly fire that the Billingshurst opening bunnies had no answer to.
After 16 overs and with the oppo still scratching around at 100ish without loss, arch strategist Voice decided it was time to go easy on
the frankly inept opening pair by introducing a bowling change. Next up were Terry (Scallop) Griffin and Steve (The Nugget) Davies. More tight
bowling brought a breakthrough, with Tel ripping out the opener for a lucky 99 (after failing to walk earlier in the innings). Stevo Davies
followed up shortly after, sending the other opener back to the pavilion for 50ish. TG 10-2-44-1, SD 6-0-35-1.
Bowling spells then followed for Sam (Gattling) Gunn 6-0-54-0 and
Steven (Livers) Livermore 3-0-17-0. Unfortunately, the tight bowling by the nippers was ultimately unrewarded, leading Fuehrer Voice to make another
bowling change. Hunt and then Brown came back to deliver the coup de grace. As punishing high speed rockets reigned down from both ends, the
Billingshurst middle order were destroyed. Three quick wickets for Fudgie (including 2 in 2 and some short lived excitement at the prospect
of a hat trick) signaled the last rites to the innings, with Billingshurst ending their campaign with a paltry 240-5. Fudger finished with 12-0-44-3, Brad 12-0-38-0.
A short drive back to the pavilion brought an unremarkable tea, although individual bowls of fruit portions were a nice touch.
The game resumed with Owen (Mr C) Voice and Andy (They Don't Like It Up Em) Long striding out to open Manor's account. 25 hours later they were
still there, both sailing past the 50 and crushing Billingshurst's spirit in the process. Long was the first to perish (for 72), as El Capitano Voice looked on from the other end, giving Umpire Brown a running commentary of his rapidly rising score. Next up
was Nigel (I Used To Be A First Team Player) French. Despite being in the twighlight of his career and facing up to the ignominy of being cast
adrift by the first team, he was able to biff a quick fire (career high for the 2's) 56no. However, the action was all taking place at the other
end, as Skipper Supremo Voice laughed in the face of Billingshurst's paltry attempts to claim his wicket. Fuelled by single minded
determination to win the game at whatever cost, Voice gracefully stroked his way past 70, 80 and then 90. As Voicey's maiden hundred for the
club looked odds on, the crowds of spectators grew as passers by stopped to watch, all hoping to see history in the making (well, just one passer
by - regular LMCC II skipper Andy (I Once Bowled Mike Yardy Out) Murray. Disaster struck a few balls later however, as Voice, in a
hysteria of excitement and rampant batting frenzy, perished on 91.
By this time, the opposition were utterly destroyed and it was just down to Barry (Bazza) Firkins to hammer home the winning runs (4no). Cue much
whooping and high fiving as Manor ended with a record breaking (chase) of 241-2, administering an 8 wicket demolition of the oppo.
Match 10. July 3rd- Home to Pulborough 4th XI
Report - Andy Murray
Manor, fresh from their great win the week before chasing down 240 at Billingshurst to win by 8 wickets, returned home to take on Pulborough 4th’s for the 2nd time this season having beaten them comfortably (by about 140 runs) on the 1st game of the season back at the start of May.
Pulborough skip called incorrectly and Ruby, returning to skipper the side having recovered from his groin injury, decided to have a bat. With Voicey away with the other tourists in Malta, Longey opened up with McKail but disaster struck just a couple of balls into the match when McKail was run out without facing after Longey had played one into the covers and called for 2, a despairing dive wasn’t enough to save him and David Livermore raised his finger at square leg, 1-1.
Davies was in at 3 and he and Longey soon got the scoreboard ticking along with the lightening quick outfield ensuring once the ball passed the fielders it generally reached the boundary. Having lost a wicket in the 1st over the 2nd wicket didn’t fall until the 26 over when Longey was bowled by McKilligan for 65 to follow up his 72 the week before, Longey and Davies partnership was 133.
Skipper Murray was in at 4 but with no additional to the score, Davies danced up (or down!) the wicket to spinner Agate and having missed the ball with a huge swing, was duly stumped for 46, 134-3. Boy if he’d connected it would have disappeared but he didn’t so the only thing disappearing was Steve back to the hutch!
Brad came in and 5 and he and Ruby needed to stabilise the ship having lost two quick wickets but that didn’t happen as Ruby played all round a straight one from McKilligan and was bowled for 5 to become his 2nd wicket, 142-4. Brad followed soon after, also for 5, when he was caught off the bowling of McKilligan, 149-5.
Hugo had come in at 6 when Ruby was out and Ben Grover in at 7 to replace Brad, they both found the boundary on regular occasions to get the scoreboard moving along but Hugo was next out for a breezy 30 when he was bowled by Fletcher, 178-6.
Dan Tuppen was in at 8 but he soon departed without troubling the scorers when he was adjudged stumped by Ken off the bowling of Fletcher, 188-7. Judges joined his pall Grover in the middle but they weren’t together for long when Grover was out for an attractive 23 bowled by Fletcher to become his 3rd wicket, 202-7.
David Livermore came in at 10 and he and Judges used up the remaining overs to take Manor to a very competitive 257-8, Judges finished not out for 37 inc. 7 4’s and David Livermore not out on 13.
A Longey fill-your-own-baguette tea was enjoyed by all before Manor strode out looking to finished the job and retire to the Potter, with 7 bowlers in his ranks Ruby could rotate in the hot conditions when required.
Ruby and Brad opened up but Pulborough took a leaf out of Manors books with an early suicidal run out of their no. 1 Gabriel for 2 orchestrated by McKail in the field finished off by Longey, 2-1. No. 3 Mitchell was next out also run out for 14 with the score on 27, this time the fielder doing the damage was Ben Grover with Longey doing the easy bit and taking the bails off.
The score ticked along to 52 before skipped Flower was bowled by Tuppen, who had replaced Murray, for 3. The other opener Wood then became Gunn’s 1st wicket of the match when he was caught by Brad for 13, 73-4. Next out was no. 5 Campbell for 33 when he picked out safe hands Ruby at Mid off to become Tuppens 2nd wicket, 96-5.
McKilligan at 7 who had earlier bowled an unchanged 18 over spell (3-49) become the 3rd run out of the innings not heeding the earlier fielding prowess of Grover, he went for a duck, 100-7.
J Fletcher at 8 was clean bowled by Gunn for 8, 109-7. This soon became 121-8 when Wales in at 6 was also cleaned bowled by Gunn for 8. The 9th wicket went down with the score on 133 when C Fletcher was also cleaned bowled by Gunn for 12 to become his 4th victim. The match was wrapped up soon after when Judges got in on the act by bowling Dormer in at 9 for 7 closing the innings at 138 off 29 overs leaving Agate at 11 not out for 0.
Another Manor win this time by 119 runs, set up by a great batting performance with the bowling and fielding finishing the job, 5 bowled, 3 run outs and 2 catches doing for Pulborough giving Manor their 1st double of the season.
Bowling figures were Murray 0-9 off 5, Hunt 0-23 off 6, Tuppen 2-36 off 7, Gunn 4-38 off 8 and Judges 1-8 off 3. Hugo Harding and David Livermore didn’t get a bowl which was unfortunate but they both contributed with the bat and in the field, they surely would have bowled if further overs were required to be bowled or if we’d bowled first.
Anyway, another great team performance which must surely result in Manor 2 continuing to sniff for promotion.
Match 11. July 3rd- Away to Three Bridges 6th's
Report - Andy Murray
Three Bridges 6th’s........or would have been had they not scratched on us for the 2nd time this season, at least we had a couple of days notice from them this time and not 1 hour, oh well, 30 points I suppose!!
Match 12. July 17th- Home to Horsham Trinity 3rds
Report - Andy Murray
Manor 2’s returned to action for the first time in a couple of weeks to take on Horsham Trinity 3’s for a home match looking to follow up on the victory over Pulbrough 4’s two weeks previous and the 30 points accrued the previous week thanks to Three Bridges scratching on us for the 2nd time this season.
Skipper Ruby won the toss and decided to have a bowl with Nick and Brad opening the bowling, Brad got an early wicket having no.2 Dunning trapped LBW for 8 with the score on 13. Out strode no. 3 Tebb and was promptly castled 1st ball by Brad, 13-2. Opener Thompson and no. 4 Bland then steadied the ship taking the score onto 45 before Nick got in on the act by inducing Thompson to edge behind to Voicey for 12.
Wilde came in at 5 to join Bland but their partnership was anything but as they took the score past 100 and then 150 with both finding the boundary on regular occasions, Bland in particular clearing the ropes on a couple of occasions off Sam. Their partnership was eventually broken with the score on 178 when Wilde was bowled by Hugo for 55 having put on a 133 partnership in around 16 overs.
Soon after with the score on 185 Bland was caught by Rob Slater off the bowling of Steven Livermore for an entertaining 71, no. 6 Fry was next to fall for just 5 with the score on 194 when he was run out by skipper Ruby who swooped with a one handed pick up running round from mid on and broke the stumps with a direct hit at the keepers end, great stuff just like on the tele, no need for 3rd umpire referral!!
Next out was Hinchy in at 7 for just 5 cleaned up by Hugo, 212-7. This soon became 215-8 when no. 9 McMillan was bowled by Steven Chadwick for 8. The 9th wicket fell with the score on 223 when no.8 Mathers was caught by Nick off the bowling of Hugo to give him his 3rd wicket. Captain Woolgar came in at 11 but didn’t last long when he was bowled by Hugo for a duck closing the innings at 235 leaving Crooks not out on 6 which came from one lusty blow. Pick of the bowling was Hugo who finished with 4 for 39 off 6.2 overs although Nick and Brad also bowled well taking 1 for 33 off 10 and 2 for 25 off 7 respectively.
Sam Gunn made his debut as a Manor tea maker although how much involvement he had in making it is unknown, he certainly needs more training in putting the tea out and clearing up after!!
Manor needed a strong start to get the innings off and running but opener Voicey fell for just 8 with the score on 10 when he was adjudged LBW of the bowling of McMillan. Hugo came in at 3 but was bowled by leggie Crooks for a duck, 11-2. This soon became 24-3 when Brad in at 4 was bowled by McMillan for 6. Rob Slater in at 5 was then bowled by McMillan for a duck, 25-5.
McKail who opened with Voicey was watching the carnage from the other end and he and Nick, in at 6, took the score onto 66 before Nick was caught at slip off the bowling of Crooks for 12 (3 x 4’s), 66-5. Skipper Murray joined McKail out in the middle and enjoyed the spinners bowling from both ends with a serious of sweeps both conventional and reverse, a long stride and reach coming in handy.
The score moved along to 82 before McKail fell for 36 when he was bowled by Crooks. The bogey score of 111 proved bad news for Murray when he got a fine edge to the keeper off the bowling of spinner Mathers for 33, bowler and keeper appealed but skipper Ruby was walking. Matt Firkins in at 8 and Sam Gunn at 9 then took the score onto 140 before Sam was gunned out bowled by Crooks for 15 which included 3 x 4’s. Skipper Woolgar brought himself on and with just his 2nd ball bowled Matt for 15, 144-9.
Steven Chadwick was in at 11 but was bowled by Woolgar 1st ball resulting in a 91 run defeat, pick off the bowlers was Crooks who took 4-59 off 17 overs, McMillan finished with 3 for 33 off 9 and skipper Woolgar 2 wickets for no runs off 0.3 overs.
Manor have a free week next week before returning to action back at the Manor on 31st July against the 3rd team of Arundel.
Match 13. July 31st- Home to Arundel 3rds
Report - NO REPORT WRITTEN
Match 14. August 7th- Away to Horsham Trinity 3rds
Report - NO REPORT WRITTEN
Match 15. August 14th- Home to Worthing Chippingdale 3rds
Report - Chris Hazlehurst
Amazingly we managed to get 11 men out for the 2nd team, what with 16 being unavailable kudos must go to team sec reserve extraordinaire Beefy.
OK onto the match, Roobs was off guffawing and gallivanting at a posh garden party supping Pimms with the Queen, so stand in skipper Hazy arrived, after being told the batting order by Beefy the night before, to meet at least 7 team mates he had never played a league game with before.
A bit of boring admin brushed aside the toss was lost and in we went. Voicey and McKail batted in a deluge before Tel realised he was umpiring in a lake and brought the men in or 45 minutes.
The soggy swashbucklers were no sooner plunged back into battle when the firsts turned up to tell us their game was off and we’d be joining them in the pub within the hour, how wrong they were!
O’s and Colin were finding it tough going against the moving (!) ball which didn’t bode well for a Manor line up that can’t have boasted more than 50 combined career runs below number 4 in the order (check that out Beef).(Beefy says 'I did, El Tel has 200+'). Voicey for 8 (32 mins) and Colin for 11 (77 mins) did ok to hang around, the 2nd wicket only falling to the 3rd change bowler , but at 54-2 in the 23rd over things didn’t look too rosy, however after a slow start, and a few wafts, Barry Firkins-of-ale hit his straps to save the innings, hitting their very slow left armer for 20 in an over to sway things our way.
Baz surely would have notched up another deserved ton if he hadn’t tired but 17 fours and a 6 in his 85 wasn’t a bad return.
Hazy (28) and Matt Firkins (mini poly-pin?) (6) hung around a bit but it was new boy James Francis who saw us claim maximum batting points with a sparkling cameo (25 in 15 minutes) including a swotted 6 down towards the roundabout. Apparently his Dad played cricket at school with Salty, thankfully young James thought better than to ask the famed stone-waller for any batting tips! Only joking.
Oliver McKail and Will Stanford both finished unbeaten as the innings ended on a respectable 207-6 from 47 overs.
Steven Livermore then prepared to open the bowling by scoffing a plate full of chocolate fingers while Hazy pondered his other bowling options, there weren’t any so new grandad Tel was called upon to charge down the hill.
Hilariously in Steven’s first over Chipps’ opening bat, who had spent the whole of our innings spouting rubbish sledges, spooned one to Colin for a big fat duck ! 1-1.
I for one by the way was glad to hear no such embarrassment emanating from the gobs of our youngsters in the field.
Stevey L then castled the no.3 in his next over and the impossible dream seemed on! But we were again finger nail chomping as a steady 50 run stand was beginning to look ominous until that man Colly Mac swooped like a heron and demolished the stumps to run out the dangerous looking skipper for 33. More high 5’s quickly followed when Tel (yes he was still going, 13 overs in total!) bowled the opener, who we had tied up nicely, for 11.
Steven Chadwick was super keen and bowled some good stuff but was a bit unlucky to come up against a couple of aggressive types who walloped him for a couple of 4’s, the big bullies! So was replaced up the hill by debut dasher James.
James’ first ball nearly knocked the block off their young keeper, and our slightly older keeper who took a couple of steps back. Two slips were called in to join Mr C as Francis continued to fly in and was unlucky to only end up with 1-19, he did run out Shaggy’s drinking buddy by half a pitch with a pick up and throw, so not too sloppy a debut.
Little Livers came back to triple cook the Chipps along with his young buddy Matt Firkins and what had started out a perceived lost cause ended up a cantering victory as we saw off their tale to win by a colossal 77 runs!!!
A brilliant victory for a seriously inexperienced side sees the promotion charge back on track!
Home