SKIPPER Stuart Dickenson reflected on a chastening afternoon after Himbleton’s bowlers were put to the sword in a seven-wickets defeat at Coombs Wood in Worcestershire County League Division Two.
Despite the Meadow Boys rattling up 254-5, Coombs Wood’s batsmen chased down the target in just 40 overs for the loss of three wickets.
The result leaves Himbleton two points above the bottom two but Dickenson is confident they can take advantage of two home games in a row, with Enville the guests tomorrow (Saturday) and then Kempsey the visitors the following week.
“We did really well to rack up 250 against a good bowling attack but once they started batting it became clear very quickly we probably needed over 300,” said Dickenson.
“Paul Guy bowled exceptionally well, conceding just 35 from his 10 but it was a humbling session for the rest of the guys.”
“We’ve got two home games coming up, both winnable. We have scored 250 plus in the last four weeks, we just need to keep that form going.”
The Meadow Boys were presented with a fantastic batting wicket on a sweltering day at Coombs Wood and had no hesitation in batting first. Ali Pretty (90) and Mike Rogers (33) built steadily after the early loss of opener Richard Sugden. After Rogers was dismissed, Sean Jenkins (18) and Jon Critchlow gave the innings the impetus it needed, taking the score to 157-3 off 40 overs.
Pretty fell in the 46th over leaving Jamie Alford (27) and Dickenson (23) to ignite the end of the innings, taking 45 off the final four overs.
The Meadow Boys soon realised it was going to be a slog in the sun as Coombs Wood’s openers rattled up 74 in just nine overs. Both fell within the space of three balls, courtesy of stunning catches from Alford and Critchlow.
Carl Whyte (64) and Dan Jones (102 not out) then took Himbleton’s attack apart as they honed in on their target.
