90 not enough vs 42s
HCC vs Marchmont 2s, 14th May 2022
Match Sponsor: Spice Pots
Haddington's strong start to the season was dealt a firm reality check at Cavalry Park on Saturday by a disciplined Marchmont side. The 42s won the toss and put the visitors straight in, and trouble started almost straight away for The Goats as Hoddinott chipped to mid-off after a couple of lusty blows. Verity picked up 2-21 but was flattered a little, often dropping short and wide, though took a smart caught and bowled when a length ball stopped on Cardwell-Moore. Steve Clayton was typically miserly at the other end, picking up a wicket from the final ball of his spell. The fielding was excellent throughout, as all but a tough half chance in the covers went to hand. Your reporter missed a straight one, making sure to gesture that it pitched and straightened. Oh dear.
Chris Sale was the only man to show resistance in a gritty 26, but was caught midwicket off the impressive Ben Cooper just as he looked to cut loose. Skipper Shaw offered support for a time but may be a few spots low at no.8 if the top order continues to struggle. 90 all out well below par.
In reply, Guest & Eagar were far more positive in their stroke-play and assertive in their running, putting on 58 for the first wicket to all but secure victory for Marchmont. There was some luck, though none for Macdonald, who on another day might have had two or three wickets to at least make it interesting. Ash Kumar bowled admirably to hold back the inevitable continuing his impressive run of form, somehow inducing Greenwood to leave one which was hitting all three, but for an immovable front pad. And though Guest survived an appeal for caught behind as he charged out his crease, it made little impact on the end result, the opener finishing with a well crafted 34 not out. Four losing bonus points (20%) the crumbs of comfort for HCC.
Haddington welcome Melrose CC this weekend, and thank Spice Pots for their support in this match - a fantastic local business, who ship their spice blends UK wide. The captain decided not to award one of their prizes on this occasion, though Sale perhaps came close with 26 and a catch.
Ash Kumar bowls to Guest of Marchmont at Cavalry Park - photo credit Gervaise Miller