Keyworth BATsmen kapowed in GOTHAM City...

On a muggy, humid and overcast day, a relatively strong KCC 1st XI arrived at neighbours Gotham City full of optimism.

With only Tinno AWOL (enjoying the rare sunshine seen down at Glastonbury), skipper 'Commissioner' Graham could afford to promote 'Two-X' Collison to the Stiffs and Adam Somech was given his debut in the middle order.

It was the same old story for Iggy when he lost the toss, but surprisingly Gotham's caped crusaders decided to Bat on a very hard wicket with a tinge of green and overhead conditions that would suit the Keyworth Villain's seamers.

Steve 'The Penguin' Rendu, potentially the Bat(s)man's greatest enemy, opened up with a very fast and hostile opening spell, and was unlucky not to get the breakthrough in his 7 overs (0 for 11). He certainly had the opposition openers on the back foot, and put their skipper on his backside with a snorting bouncer! BIFF!

At the other end, 'The Riddler', Andy Hiller bowled a steady spell, hitting some good areas and he was rewarded in the 6th over with the breakthrough.

A 2nd wicket stand of 67, although not always pretty on the eye, was to prove very effective on a wicket where the batsmen would never be fully in, and this helped set the platform for a reasonable Gotham total. First change, 'Two-Face' Dave Hiller, bowled some useful stuff and broke this partnership but he was targeted a little. He was probably seen as a bit of welcome relief from the Rocket Man and so his 7 overs went for 40, which was a tad expensive on a seamer friendly track.

'Catwoman' Strongy (sorry Dave, running out of villains!) had now gone lame in the outfield and wasn't fit to bowl, so 'The Joker' Bobby Baker was introduced into the attack to partner senior spinner Graham. They accounted for the middle order between them with Iggy returning 2 for 52 and Bobby 3 for 40. Andy Hiller was reintroduced for some rabbit catching and he managed to pick up another 2 wickets to return figures of 3 for 36. Bobby was left on to bowl out at the other end as he was managing to keep the run rate down, but this was probably a welcome relief to the Gotham Batsmen as even his arm ball wasn't quite as hostile as the Long Haired Buffoon's slower ball...

187 for 9 was the first time the team batting first hadn't reached 200 at Gotham all season, and it was testimony to some excellent bowling and a buoyant and athletic fielding display particularly from Lee Potts, Adam Somech and Dave Hiller.

With the tinkerman Ian 'Dermott Reeve' Graham deciding to mix things up again to keep the Gotham lads guessing, he dropped himself down to six and moved Rocket to 3 after his golden duck last week. Doug Bayford fresh from his pinch hitting (14 from 31 balls...) the week before, kept the role ahead of Baker whose 40 off 47 balls two weeks ago obviously wasn't noted by the guesting Skipper!

After Dougie was unfortunately snaffled for a duck at first slip, Rocket occupied the crease for a while with regular opener Marc Bailey. Marc looked comfortable until he was caught of his gloves hooking on unpredictable bounce, something that was going to be a familiar story. Somech joined the Rocket man for a while, and played the cut of the day before he too was caught behind playing a hook.

The first of the young drunkards then joined Steve in the middle, Lee Potts, was in the main positive with an assured knock off 27 before he was 4th out. Unfortunately KCC collapsed from 72 for 3 with the departures of Rendu, Graham (who gave himself the job of 'the finisher') for a 3rd ball duck, Ben Elliott 0 and Baker 1 (the latter two also out hooking!). The Hiller sisters managed 5 each to keep things happy in their Cotgrave love nest, and the best no 11 in the league Dave Strong was left stranded on 1 not out for a typical red inker.

106 all out was an inept batting display and The Millers suffered for not occupying the crease. Positives were the return to form of Potty who will now hopefully join Bailey at the top of the order, the acquisition of debutant Somech, and Iggy realising that he can't finish something that didn't really get started - so the best bat in the league will be back in the top four in future!

At O from 7 now, Keyworth are glad that they've only got the unbeaten Caribs at the Field of Dreams next week...

Kitch sinks 'em

Second in the league Keyworth II's put out a strong side against 2nd from bottom visitors Risley at an overcast and humid Field of Dreams. The Stiffs welcomed back Ted Elliott, Rob Beake and Andy Cowlard with Dale Collison also promoted from the firsts. AC managed to lose the toss and Keyworth were inserted with Ted and Scooby opening up. Risley's pint sized opening bowler who was about 12 bowled well, but was dispatched by Scooby (26) who only dealt in 4's before getting out caught on the boundary even though the fielder looked as though he was almost in the hedge.

Beakey continued his good form with the bat and hit a stylish 31 before being bewildered by the slowest of slow balls from the Risley grenade launcher. Keyworth were 100-2 off 27 overs when Emma Dale (38) came to the crease, and he and Ted who was playing a steady innings put on 80-odd in 13 overs before DC was caught behind.

AC (12) was unfortunate to get run out at the non-striker's end before really getting going, leaving Paul Lay (28*) and Ted, who carried his bat to 76* to help post an impressive 234-4 in their 45 overs.

Paul Lay continued his good work with a marvellous spread for tea. Scones topped with jam and strawberries were the delicious highlight.

After the break Risley's debut opener punished anything of full length and the visitors were up with the run rate at 81-0 after 20 overs. A breakthrough was hard to come by and was made even harder due to some dodgy umpiring decisions by Risley's players who were standing as square leg umpire, missing a clear run-out and stumping. It was left to Kitch (5 for 44) to come on and change the game, taking a wicket in his first over, two in his second and one in his third as Risley were pegged back to 142-3 off 30 overs.

AC switched ends to come up the hill after a fruitless opening spell and bagged three wickets of his own as the visitor's batting order collapsed. Kitch bagged his fifth wicket as the visitors slumped to 180-9 off 40. The last pair held out to deny Keyworth maximum points as their innings closed on 207.

Drurs is away.

Curse of the Evening Post strikes again

The writing was on the wall at twenty-past one on Saturday afternoon; the dreaded photographer from the Nottingham Evening Post had turned up to take team photos and some action shots. As with previous features it was same old Keyworth as only 10 men were at the ground for the team shot, as club captain IG was on his way back at speed from the Lakes. The home side were soon in all sorts of bother losing a wicket before the hack could get his long lens out and before the names of the batsmen were written in his notebook.

The overnight rain and overcast conditions on a green wicket provided perfect swing and seam conditions. Unfortunately stand in skip Tinno lost the toss and unsurprisingly it was Keyworth who were inserted. Faced with anogther depleted side, with Marc Bailey, Rob Baker and the Hiller sisters all absent, Tinno was faced with the dilemma of who to open with. He settled for the pinch hitting Doug Bayford and Steve Rendu, who was asked to carry his bat at the other end. As the two took to the field, Tinno shouted an encouraging "48" to the Rocket Man to remind him that he was there for the long haul. Unfortunately the Long Haired Buffoon took this to mean 48 seconds as he was caught first ball trying to pull a short ball off his hip and getting a top edge.

Tinno was next in and stayed around with Dougie (14) for 10 overs before he fell to a LBW decision when he was well down the track. Ben Elliott (4) only lasted 3 balls but fortunately Iggy had arrived to bat at 6. Potty batted well with IG and looked good in the testing conditions for his 18 before being caught behind. Emma Dale only lasted 4 balls before being bowled through the gate, leaving KCC in dire straits at 64-6 in 20 overs.

Dave Strong was keen to take back the all-rounder role in Bobby's absence and he and Iggy put on 30 as the ball continued to dart around. Their partnership included as many air shots as you'd see in a round with Wozza.

There were so many 'swing and a miss' it was like watching the World Series. Babe Ruth Graham was first to go for 24, caught on the square leg boundary.

He was quickly followed by Beakey, for the second golden of the innings, who was good enough to get an edge first ball. Strongy eventually succumbed on 23 after smashing a couple of his trademark 6's. Late call up Andy Cowlard wasn't hanging about and smacked 19 off 17 balls to get the score above the hundred mark, but as Andy Green was just about to unleash, AC decided to run himself out in the 36th over as the innings limped to 126 all out.

Tea was different class. Vice President Simon 'Chopper' Harris again showed off his culinary skills and his support for the club as a 5-star banquet was laid on - the likes of which the opposition from Rolls Royce had never seen before. The roast chicken pieces, chicken wraps, buffallo mozzarella-tomato-egg and spinach salad, cous-cous, and potato-salad were top drawer, but the piéce de resistance was the still-warm chocolate brownie...Mmmmmmmmmm Chocolate! This was not just a cricket tea, this was a Simon Harris cricket tea.

Attack (and prayer) was the only way forward after the break and Rocket (5-41) duly obliged in the 5th, 6th , 7th and 9th overs as the visitors were reeling on 39-4. Two of the wickets were exact carbon copies as Greeny, who was patrolling the deep third man boundary, pulled off two amazing running diving catches as the Rolls Royce top order all tried unsuccessfully to hit out from the off. With such a low total to reach, it only took two batsmen to bat sensibly and the winning runs were hit in the 35th over off Spin King Dougie who had a couple of overs at the end. The housewives' and scorer's favourite managed to get his first wicket for the club after seeing his 'quality' first ball get a wicket -Shane Warne vs Mike Gatting it was not!

Stiffs Soar to Victory

Thanks to The Adonis for a guest match report.......

The Stiffs recorded a narrow victory away at Clifton, coping with a threadbare squad with Cowlard and Beakey up to the Firsts and Drurs away on Laddy's stag do.

We played on the bottom pitch at Clifton. There was a match on the top pitch with not enough room in the pavilion for four teams to change, so we were offered facilities apparently somewhere near Barton-in-Fabis which were declined, so whites were donned either in or behind our cars - thank God for a bit of sun and the windbreak of the surrounding hedge. Ernie opted for a spot on the boundary where he could wave to passing traffic!

Ted had been a little delayed and with AC on duty at the Field of Dreams, Leggy was acting captain, took the toss, won it and inserted the opposition on a pitch that was hard but had more moss than a hanging basket. Dimp was back in action due to AC's promotion, but we still took the field with only ten men with Chris Soar taking station on the A453, waiting for his dad. He had arrived at the ground on time, but apparently the knot had fallen out of his hankie - he had remembered his cricket bag, but there were no whites in it and an emergency call was put out for their delivery.

Boss Hogg opened the bowling from the top end and immediately got fluctuating bounce which had the openers contained and struggling. Kitch opened from the boulevard end and bowled with good variation beating the bat outside off several times in his first few overs. Leggy was first to break through, the batsman miscuing with a top edge that took off vertically over keeper Paul Lay and Boom Boom at 1st slip, Ted took off after it, ran in a large circle like a hen with its head off and pouched a difficult catch, the ball arriving over his right shoulder.

In Kitch's next over, the other opener tried a cover drive off a well pitched up ball, got a thick outside edge to gully which disappeared into Dimp's large buckets. 23 for 2 was a good start. The Clifton No. 3, who appeared to have as much knowledge of batting as Attila the Hun had about diplomacy then proceeded to balloon the ball about the ground, always managing to avoid the fielders. Two easy chances were put down off consecutive balls from Leggy, who was heard to comment before the next: 'Here we go lads - hat trick ball!'

First change was Liam, who bowled a good spell with the No 3 still riding his luck and finding gaps and keeping the scoreboard ticking. Kitch then had the No 4 dismissed with a lofted drive to Ted at mid-off and Liam removed the No. 5 shortly after. Billy Harrison then came on to replace Kitch and showed how much he has progressed, bowling good left-arm in-swing and beating the bat many times. Ted then came on at the top end after Liam's spell and bowled tidily, removing the No 6. During this time Clifton's No 3 completed a very streaky 50.

JB then came on in 36th over from the boulevard end and in his second over, persuaded the No 3 to have a dance down the wicket and Paul Lay removed his bails for a smart stumping. Clifton's No 8, who in build resembled a brick outhouse, departed cheaply, facing his first ball from the Adonis surrendered with a straightforward c & b. The final wicket came in Leggy's last over, JB taking a running (yes, running) catch at deep mid-off. Final score 148 for 9

Tea was fair with sandwiches fresh but in short supply, the high spot being fresh doughnuts which Leggy pronounced 'excellent - very jammy,' but wouldn't say how many he had eaten!

Keyworth's innings opened with Ted and Ernie. Clifton's wicketkeeper amazingly was smaller than Ernie, but then he was only twelve! Ted and Ernie started circumspectly against a steady opening attack, Ernie again confounding the opposition by punching a boundary forward of point! Both openers appeared to have settled into their game when Ernie got the slightest of nicks and was back in the hutch. Duncan Disorderly then scratched around for three or four overs before departing cheaply then Leggy came in and promptly dispatched his first delivery over backward square for a one-bounce four!

Leggy's innings was a short but entertaining affair, ending with a top edge which nearly hit him on the head on its way back down to the young wicketkeeper. Paul Lay kept Ted company for a while and looked comfortable until being dismissed by a good catch at point. The bowling (from the Clifton brick outhouse) had now become increasingly ragged and Mr. Extras (who had also played well for us at Ruddington) was chasing Ted's score.

Having attracted no bids on eBay, Kitch came in and in typical style tried to break his new bat during a relatively short innings, swinging like the proverbail rusty gate. He was dropped first ball, smashed one six which nearly made the petrol station at the bottom of Green Lane, but then perished, caught trying to hit over the infield. Ted was then out, from a catch at short extra cover which everyone watching thought the fielder had dropped, however the fielder claimed it and the umpire upheld the claim.

Our batting now looked rather fragile, twenty-odd needed and only the rabbits available. However, we needn't have worried, the brick outhouse kept bowling wides and the odd no-ball, but then Liam got the only straight one he bowled and was trapped LBW. Young Chris Soar then joined Billy Harrison in the middle, only to be joined by Dimp when Billy perished for one. Chris and Dimp saw us home with two leg-byes and three scampered byes for a two-wicket win with five overs to spare. (Not certain of Ted's score, but Mr. Extras got 57, his second half century of the season)!

World Record opening partnership for Firsts

In a bottom of the table battle, the first XI travelled to fellow relegation placed Kimberley on a sun baked afternoon with another depleted side missing regulars Graham, Rendu, Collison, Hiller (D) and new opening bats Bailey and Potts

Tinno made his long awaited first start after injury and made an immediate impact. The former leader of the youth policy seems to have been practicing his tossing technique whilst on the sidelines and his first attempt at wearing the Skippers arm band won our first toss of the season!

After a few slow starts, our third Skipper in six matches decided to be positive on a feather bed with a fast outfield, and one particularly short boundary, by sticking Baker in as a pinch hitter. Batting with Elliott Senior it must have been the heaviest opening partnership in the Club's history, if not the world? With Big Ted anchoring the side, the featherweight Baker (?) was given license to dance around, playing his full array of air shots, skiers over mid-off and sixes over point, mixed with the odd grass cutting four through extra cover.

The opening bowlers were seen off as we progressed well to a solid 49 for 0 from 13 overs but Bakers eyes (or his belly) lit up when he smelt a pie or two with the introduction of spin. He chased a low wide Chicken & Mushroom and was caught behind off the bottom of his bat for 40 off 47 balls. Ted (5* at the fall of the wicket) was joined by Beaky (relegated from the 2's after showing some good form) and they worked the ball around well before both fell in quick succession after a partnership of 54. Ted made a well grafted 38 from 74 and Butch a solid 16 from 50 balls. At 121 for 3 with 15 overs to go, a score of 220-240 was the talk with a potentially destructive middle-late order champing to get involved. The 3 Kimberley slow bowlers ensured all got a chance with Meek (17), Tindsley (5), Newby (1) Bayford (4) and Strong (9) all hoping to pick out the short boundary for a cameo knock but a Keyworth collapse materialised. It was left for Ben Elliott to entertain the crowd with a full wagon wheel of shots. Two seamers were brought on to clean up Andy Hiller (to a plum LBW) and Greeny was bowled off his pads. Ben was left unbeaten on 33 of just 19 balls, his 2 pulls for 6 were nice hits but the 2 fine leg glances for four would have had Dilshan and the Sri Lankans purring.

178 all out from 42.5 overs was competitive but below par and slightly disappointing, the collapse also meant we gifted the opposition our 5 unused overs which would later prove crucial.

Tea was a bland but obviously profit making affair - we look forward to showing the Northerners what M&S food tastes like (as opposed to 'Aldi' or'Netto') when they return to the Field of Dreams later in the year! Andy Hiller and Strongy took the new cherry for Tinno (Andy naively bowling at the end of the Brisbane based official with whom he had already exchanged pleasantries after HE thought he'd middled (??) his LBW dismissal). Unfortunately we weren't able to bowl a consistent full length meaning Kimberley raced to 50 for 1 off 12 overs. The wicket coming after some good work by keeper Beake shying from 15 yards to hit middle to see off the opener. Unfortunately it wasn't Kimberley's gifted but most grumpy player (and believe me there appears to be plenty!) who raced to 54 before the introduction of Keyworth's own silth-like spinner, who dragged him forward before turning one (unbelievable as it sounds!) past the outside edge for Beaky to whip the bails off for a classical stumping. Drinks brought another wicket, although the disappointing hospitality of the Kimberley team continued as they couldn't be bothered to serve their guests (note for August!!), so KCC Club President and King of Diplomacy Barry Baker made his point by bringing the orange out himself with the one Kimberley juniors who appears to have been brought up with some manners! Rob Baker continued to dominate from one end with figures of 4 for 27 from 17 overs pulling the Millers back into contention, along with some decent and tight seam bowling from Meek and Newby at the other. Future Premier League prospect Sidhu for Kimberley looked unconvincing against Meek and Baker early on but, after the seamers returned, he occupied the crease sufficiently and grew in confidence with the luxury of additional overs to hit the winning runs in his knock of 44* in the 50th over.

Fielding Point and potential champagne moment goes to Greeny who ran towards the boundary to chase a skier in his Dunlop Green Flash. As he slipped, the ball went for four and Greeny was on his back sliding with one leg going north of the fence post and one leg south... rumour has it that two other balls turned into four during the incident, much to the amusement of his team mates. The aforementioned trainers were deposited into the changing room dustbin and Greeny's new agent has advised us that he is now unavailable due to his new job as Aled Jones backing singer!!!

A disappointing result but the day wasn't over, we had a quick drink at the ground (with the 2 home players left!) before the highlight of the evening, which was a trip to The Cricketers Rest in Kimberley, where the landlord is now our very own Stuart Meek. Knowing the clientele he was attracting, Meeky made an order to the local Indian take away for some bhaji's, naans and kebabs for nibbles which went own a treat with the local ales and Bulmer's Cider.

The youth policy perfected their darts technique whilst the senior pro's maintained their darts physique in the beer garden with the buffet. Thanks to Stuart, Mary and Leanne for their hospitality (you should give your neighbourhood crickters some tips!), Shelly for her continued patience (we are trying) and the travelling supporters. A special mention to Scooby and Beakey who both had a good day after stepping up from the Stiffs.

Stiffs In A Spin

A lemming-like batting collapse saw the Stiffs comprehensively beaten by Attenborough.

The Field of Dreams looked a picture for the visit of Attenborough with the sun glinting off the latest additions to our sponsor boards.

Cowlard lost the toss and we batted first. Ernie was quicker out of the blocks than Usain Bolt, hitting 11 boundaries in a fluent half century, as we raced to 70 without loss in no time.

The introduction of spin at both ends was the turning point of the whole game. Ern ran out of patience and was bowled sweeping a yorker for 50. Geoff Miller was quickly heading to the ground with news of a new no.3 for the Stiffs....... Leggy. The Boss didn't disappoint getting off the mark with a boundary, and then swatting a six, both to his favourite Cow(lard) corner. At 100-1 we were looking well placed. Drurs had once again scored a century to the fielders, but was starting to find the gaps, until a dreadful rush off blood saw him stumped off a wide for 31. Leggy fell the next over for 16.

Our middle order proceeded to exit quicker than members of Gordon Brown's cabinet. Cowlard (20) and Paul Lay (5) were both out caught and bowled to the same bowler to the same shot. Kitcho had bought a new bat and chipped his first ball straight to mid wicket, an accident waiting to happen. Check out ebay for a 'G&M cricket bat; used just once; one less than careful owner'. Young Billy was all at sea after being told to expect an off spinner, only to see the ball go the opposite way, sadly forgetting that he was a left hander, and was bowled first ball.

We'd slumped to 130-7 and the trolley of shame was creaking with victims.

Liam looked in good form hitting 11 off as many balls, but then had a difference of opinions with Dimp, the ball hitting the pad or outside edge depending on which story you believed. The umpire's view was final. JB added another duck to the scorebook and we were down to the last pair.

Duncan Disorderly (16*) and Chris See-Soar (6*) showed the middle clowns how it should be done with a fine last wicket partnership of 29. Dunc hitting a great square cut and Chris a lovely clip off his legs for boundaries as we saw out the 45 overs to reach 172-9. About 50 runs short but something to bowl at.

Team Elliott had prepared a splendid feast that justified the use of the best KCC china. Beetroot surprise and strawberry mini rolls were the highlights, washing up the plates the downside for spectators Hallam, Daft and Cottee.

The veterans dressing room smelt like an old-fashioned chemist as Cowlard and Leggy went through three tubes of Deep Heat and two of Savlon to warm up their respective groin and pile conditions.

AC bowled a fabulous opening spell reducing the visitors to 22-3, a clean bowled jaffa, and then Paul taking two good catches behind the stumps. Sadly for Paul, two didn't become three as a low chance just went begging. At the other end Leggy was fretting about not having a bowling marker and went for three four's in his first over before settling down for a steady spell. AC bowled his 12 overs straight through, ending with fine figures of 3-33.

The fourth wicket partnership won the game taking the score from 22 to 139. We had a few half chances, but this was a good wicket and put our poor batting display into context. JB and Kitch got both batters out after they had both passed 50, but by that stage the damage was done. To sum up our day Drurs dropped a diving catch with six to win. Attenborough cruised home for the loss of five wickets winning with a six to Cowlard corner.

Overjoyed at the success of his Samit Patel diet, and finally being able to fit into his Ted Baker shirt, Boss Hogg thought about ordering the entire Specials menu. Sheriff Hallam had other ideas quickly confiscating the tea money and saving Leggy's shirt buttons from unnecessary stress.

A poor day, but not as bad as old friends Caythorpe, who were rolled over for 33 in 14 overs, despite Kingy hitting the first ball for six! Chin up slogger!

51 Not Out

Gotham were the visitors on another sunkissed evening at the Field of Dreams for a pairs match. Normington won the toss (yeah!) and decided to try and post a total rather than chase one. That was before the Gotham management informed that 2 of their players were just leaving Bingham School and could they borrow two boys to field… mmmmh…

Therefore the roles were reversed and Gotham padded up as Keyworth took the field. So does that technically count as a lost toss and 5 in a row…

Newell Snr relieved Tuckwell of scoring duties and rekindled fond memories of scoring as a youngster down at Unity, scooping the coveted title of 1984 Unity Clubman of the year for his unerring accuracy, presentation and comedic descriptions of the opposition.

Tuckwell patrolled the boundary as Legge donned his usual role in the middle. 8 overs passed with the wide count spiraling out of control as the Boss hauled the youngsters in for a grilling, before the next pair returned. Neece did point out that if the stumps had been set properly his full delivery would have dislodged middle and off rather than threading straight through them without anything moving! Brown did give the home faithful something to cheer about as buckets Newell took a routing chance at short midwicket. 257 – 1 off 8.

No one could have expected the outcome of the third pair, despite standing nearly 6 foot, the lean number 5 proceeded to hit a 20/20 style chanceless knock including every shot in the book for a whopping 51 runs in 16 deliveries. Including 2 huge sixes playing on the adult boundary. Cairns had his work cut out in the retrieval process but found every ball! Mills produced a terrific run out, hitting the only stump he could see, for the only bit of respite in a textbook Gotham pair. 317-2 off 12.

With Newell Snr asking after a new score sheet with more numbers, the KCC boys produced a terrific response: Steiner with a double wicket maiden in the 13th over with lovely flight and swing. Newell was miserly before Steiner (3-1-8-3) struck the stumps again. 329-5 off 16.

The final pair pushed the score on before Normington (2-0-8-1) clattered the timber in the penultimate over to redress the balance. 343-6 off 20. 308 to win.

Despite the large total it was a case of 5 an over without any wickets tumbling as the aim was to value your wicket ala R. Drury.

Shepherd was instructed to remain calm and get bat on ball before cutting lose and did so impressively, with Coulthard at the other end gaining in confidence with each game. A Shepherd boundary rattled the Gotham fielders with overthrows a plenty. Coulthard with his eye in played all round a straight one, before the pair ran a four on the final delivery to Shepherd’s dismay. 227-1 off 4 – brilliant start!

A Gotham umpire change did little to help the Keyworth cause with the legside wide interpretation hugely varied. The Gotham bowlers given the benefit of pitching it in Plumtree before the arms raised, but anyway…

Mills and Brown were solid in defence for the second time in a week. Brown missed a straight one in an otherwise faultless 4 overs with good clear running. 240-2 off 8.

Newell and Stolworthy put on another 14 runs without loss, no boundaries but terrific clear calling and good running to show the progression. 254-2 off 12.

Healey and Steiner with plenty of runs in the locker already this season set off guns blazing. Although the first ball nearly produced tears with both batsmen at the strikers end, but a complete horlicks allowed Healey to return safely. Healey picked out the wrong fielder trying to force one through the covers but 280-3 off 15 was a cracking effort. The left arm Gotham seamer effectively stamped his authority on the game, Healey clipping to midwicket before Steiner pulled across a straight one the very next delivery. 283-5 off 16.

Normington and Neece had free licence again. Neece crashing a mighty blow over the covers and scampered through for 3 off the first ball. The running was superb, Neece especially as the pair repelled the straight ones, took the extras and forced errors in the field. 18 off the final 4 overs and 301 – 5 off 20. 271.

36 runs short but the first time we have got over 100 runs and more importantly the lowest amount of wickets conceded, allowing for the first time a competitive score to be posted. A tremendous achievement and plenty to build on next week.

A special mention for a textbook scorecard.

Wollaton at home on Tuesday

Carry on Carrington

The Under 12’s made the short trek across town to Carrington for a pairs match, aiming to post a score in excess off the first teams 85 all out on the opening day of the season.

Normington will soon have President Baker checking through the history books of consecutive lost tosses, as the boys took to the field winning the best turned out prize with new caps proudly sported.

Shepherd opened with Healey but couldn’t find the break through as the first pair advanced to 230 off their 4 overs. Tipped off by Shepherd, Tudor whipped off the bails in his run up, as the non striker was already half way down the track.

Normington finally found a way through in the 6th over with a plum LBW with the score on 238. This proved the catalyst for the KCC recovery as Steiner produced a clean bowled which was repeated by Mills in the very next over, leaving the home side on 241-3 off 8.

Brown (2-1-2-0) produced a fine maiden in the 10th over and conceded no runs from the bat in his short spell. Neece proved decisive in the 11th over with another that went straight through the gate.

A terrific piece of ground fielding saw Normington arrow to Steiner to take off the bails and at 281-6 off 16 it was nicely in the balance.

Unfortunately Keyworth fell the wrong side of a Carrington no show leaving the star final batter to face all remaining 24 deliveries with partner: A.Whippet. A run a ball of the penultimate 3 overs saw the score accelerate.. With Billy Whizz excessive in his backing up, a host of run out chances were presented, but none converted. Newell reeled back the scoring with a timely last over and another clean bowled. 308 -7 off 20: 267 for victory.

It was all about losing less wickets for KCC and the Carrington quicks soon had the travelling faithful calculating Tuckworth-Lewis as 5 wickets (-30) were notched up by Shepherd and Tudor in the opening 4 overs: 3 excellent clean bowled and 2 crazy run outs. 214-5 off 4.

Mills and Brown produced an excellent show of defence, repelling everything whilst hitting well through the offside, to stabilize the innings. 218-5 off 8.

This set the platform for Newell and Healey to try to edge towards positive figures. Healey produced a straight forward caught and bowled in the first over as Newell assumed seniority with some top draw leg side boundaries. Healey was unlucky as a direct hit from deep extra cover, with one stump to aim at, saw him just short of the crease. 240-7 off 12

Steiner and Hennessy injected promise with a superb run a ball knock to give a glimmer of a hope. Steiner the main culprit hitting 3 fours, probably a good job as he looked like he was running in treacle, with Hennessy at one point nearly lapping him! 265-7 off 16.

Normingotn and Neece were faced with 44 required off 24 balls a mammoth ask but the first time the victory line was even in sight, and definite progression. Some fabulous running saw 10 taken off the opening two overs, with the boundary in similar size to the Field of Dreams. Neece, on the attack, was drawn down the track by the excellent spinners and was runout in the final over pushing the score on as instructed. 281-9.

No points, but progress once again with the highest total scored, against the best bowling side faced, and the lowest amount of wickets lossed.

Wet Wet Wet

Weather for ducks saw the First Team game at Clifton called off. The Stiffs didn't have a match, but moved up to second in the table thanks to Caythorpe beating Wilsons.

Jim Dealler

Former Club Captain & Club President has passed away.

It is with sadness that we have learnt of the death of JIM DEALLER. A right arm medium pace bowler and big hitting middle order batsman (top score 64 not out), Jim played for us from 1966 to 1979 and was 1st XI Captain in the 1972 & 1973 seasons.

Jim served as our President from 1980 until 1983 and thereafter had been a Vice President and was still residing in Keyworth.

The sympathies of club members have been sent to his widow Joan, who was one of our regular "tea ladies" during Jim's playing days.

Normington and Steiner Cash In

Another beautiful night at the Field of Dreams, saw the visit of the pinnacle team in junior cricket: Radcliffe. With the wires out, chairs lined up and urn switched on Normington lost the toss (don’t worry it’s a Keyworth trait) for the 2nd night in succession, as Radcliffe elected to bat with a large crowd gathered.


Boys, eyes on the game, you can play with girls later!

Having scored over 200 (409-6) in their 20 overs against Carrington in their last match, it was always going to be tough. Tuckwell and apprentice scorer to the stars, Cairns, had the pencil sharpener at close hand.

Newell and Stolworthy opened up very tightly, a maiden from Newell in his second over keeping a lid on the scoring, as the first pair departed with 17 on the scorecard, without loss.

Neece was brought on up the hill and immediately brought success, the batsmen unwisely chancing a second to the arm of Healey and a super throw allowed Neece to whip off the bails in the 5th over. Steiner followed this up with a fantastic over: a second ball in swinging yorker removed middle stump. Dimp strode into view with rumours of Legge in the umpire roll and checking the letters of the law were being upheld. The batsman walked onto another pearling delivery with Legge in no doubt and finger raised for an LBW, and Dimp storing the knowledge. Dreamland.

Two successive fours in Steiner’s following over didn’t deter the left arm swinger as the batsman top edged to leave all eyes on Hennessey who, bravely and duly, pouched a trousery one.

The Radcliffe boys showed the finer points of chanceless batting, dealing with each ball on its merits: content for the wides and waiting for anything off line. With no bowler receiving any tap Radcliffe showed the importance of not losing any wickets (-6) whilst nudging 6 an over.

Healey took a deserved wicket with his final delivery, as a huge top edge headed into the heavens. Hennessy once again showing his fantastic progression, called for it and as breaths were held in the outfield, the ball landed safely in both hands. Good lad.

The Radcliffe innings finished on 325 for 5, with 296 the total for victory. An excellent all round display from the Keyworth boys who carried on where they left off at Wollaton the night previous.

Sharon was doing a roaring trade and a sterling job in the Tuckers shop, a freshly baked chocolate iced sponge that morning was flying off the shelf like hot… cakes… Tuckwell lucky to scoop the final piece as the customers flooded in.

The amount of wickets conceded has been the worry as Tuckwell served up the chance of cash, with a pound each for any pair that didn’t get out.

Tudor and Brown had the honours to open, with the former running an excellent 4 through gully on the opening delivery. A couple of wides saw the total on 209 without loss off 2.

Brown was caught with one that nipped back before proceeding to either spot someone in an upstairs bedroom window, or try to bring a plane into land as the one handed County leave was become more and more elaborate to the frustration of Dad on the sidelines. Tudor fell in the last over to another terrific delivery. 212-2 off 4

Healey and Neece endured a frustrating time. The first over: 5 consecutive wides, nice 10 runs but no rhythm. A quick single proved not quick enough as the experienced hard and flat throwing to the excellent keeper left Neece stranded. Healey presented a straight forward chance in the covers which was followed by another 4 wides and wicket, as the patience ebbed away. A further chance was served up to the in field and safely dealt with. 230–6 off 8.

Coulhard and Stolworthy strode in looking to recreate their Bank Holiday form. More wides disrupted the rhythm and chances kept coming, 2 further catches easily taken and a beautiful straight delivery removing middle and off. 256–9.

Newell and Hennessy set off with the latter proclaiming, ‘forget the score, I’m in it for the quid!’ This was not to be as the bails were soon dislodged playing across a straight one. With the pick of the bowlers on it was a defensive effort. One slipped through the gate of the previous nights hero, Newell, before Hennessy chopped to midwicket. 261–12

Normington and Steiner negotiated the deal and were determined to leave Tuckwell out of pocket and bring the score in positive figures. Some wide deliveries left Tuckwell figuring a conspiracy with the bowlers being in on the act! But some fantastic chanceless defence and good running saw the pair put on 15 with out loss as we closed for 276 for 12 (204)

An excellent fielding performance once again, against the leagues top team, with the bowling probably better: 58 of the 76 Keyworth runs coming off wide deliveries. Once again the wickets conceded being a huge factor in the difference in score.

Normington and Steiner proving excellent and showing the importance of not losing a wicket, and yet keeping the scoreboard ticking over.


One pound sterling to Normington (left) and Steiner (right) Although mum did impart that Dominic would be just as happy with a donut! Food for thought.

Well done boys, another great effort and same again on Monday against Carrington.

Shortsgate

The best evening of the year saw a trip up the ringroad to Wollaton in the 11 aside league. Shepherd was still on his holidays, with Tudor still acclimatising from South Africa. Cairns, dealt the news of broken wrist to a dejected Leggey who had earmarked the all rounder to open the batting but tried his right hand at scoring. Devenney (or mini-Harry) was whisked from the Willow Brook Cricket Academy, to complete the line up.

If my maths are wrong I hold you completely responsible Mr Tuckwell!

With a schools match finishing up, Legge held an ‘Audience with’ the importance of responding well after a bad delivery, using the own experiences of being carted into the playground on Saturday and the Rudd first change bowler who delivered a 17 ball over before being so demoralised his mate had to finish off.

Excuse me, Leggy, where did you get hit for 6? Back over your head? Cow Corner? Or into next week?

Normington lost the toss as Wollaton elected to bat. The instruction to the bowlers was to pitch the ball up, which is exactly what Newell and Brown did, before Brown scattered the stumps in the third over, for a well deserved maiden KCC wicket. 24-1 off 4.

Steiner was first change with leading wicket taker Stolworthy. A second over 'Steiner maiden' was followed by ‘Shortsgate’ – Stolworthy playing in a pair of black football shorts due to a washing machine malfunction. A terrific ball that seamed back removed the number 3 dangerman as a report was lodged to the scorers that the ball could not be spotted form the dark shorts material… This was met by derision and scorn by Tuckwell but fuelled further as Stolworthy took a second wicket in the over, bowling the number 4, as Shortsgate threatened to esculate. I mean, perhaps it’s not technically cricket but straws and clutching come to mind. 38-3 off 8.

The ground fielding was excellent with Neece and Newell sharp and Hennessy a rock behind the stumps. Impressively only one wide in the first 6 overs, well done. Normington had an over to forget but recomposed for a much improved second. 70 – 3 off 11

Healey span the game on its head and left Tuckwell floundering for his wallet as first a beautifully flighted inswinger removed middle stump. This was followed with the faintest of glances that feathered the off stump bail to the ground, to the bemusement of the batter and most watching. The £5 hat trick delivery was dug out. Mills kept the scoring down with a tight first over. 85-5 off 15.

Neece (3-0-11-1) finished off excellently and thoroughly deserved a first LBW of the season with the penultimate ball of the innings, as the number 5 departed for a joint top score of 27. Steiner (4-1-18-0) Healey (3-0-15-2) and Stolworthy (2-0-10-2) proved able foils with the ball as Wollaton finished on 118 for 6.

Normington dropped down the order which allowed Coulthard to open with Healey. The former whipped a terrific ball off his legs for the first boundary of the innings as 11-0 off 2 was reached. Coulthard was unlucky as a top edge looped gratefully into the keepers waiting mitts. Neece late cut for a cheeky double followed by an excellent boundary, but was unfortunately skittled with a slower delivery. 22-2 off 4

Normington crashed one through the covers for 4 but was sent back to the hutch after a well flighted ball drew him in and hit the stumps. Devenney was very unfortunate pushing through for a quick single, but the ball popped straight into the hands of the fielder who fizzed one into the keeper as the third umpire ruled ‘out’, just. At 30-4 off 6 the tail were sensing that a bat was on the cards.

Happy to bat at 11, Newell was hoisted up the order with plenty of potential displayed in the nets and set about rebuilding the innings with Healey. Fine running and an abundance of boundaries, whipped off the legs and crashed into the off side were racked up, as we were handily placed at 58-4 off 10.

Healey surpassed Neecey’s top score of 20 as Tuckwell began nervously checking the wallet again. With the 50 partnership approaching, Healey ran out of steam and couldn’t quite carry midwicket which concluded an excellent knock of 25, in a 45 run partnership with Newell. The game was poised at 75 for 4 of 13 compared to 77 for 5 at the same stage for Wollaton.

Hennessy managed to add one to the total before being dismissed, by the Wollaton top run scorer, who then effectively ended the game with a devastating over. Stolworthy was then caught and bowled and Steiner kept out the hat trick delivery before looping a top edge to the keeper on the next delivery. Mills was drawn in by a beauty and giving the keeper a trio of catches.

Last man Brown promptly smashed a cover drive to the ropes and some cheeky singles saw 90 passed before the opener returned to bowl Newell with a peach. Newell finishing on a career best and excellent 24. 92 all out off 18.3

26 runs short but the best performance to date, a real team effort. Well done.