Reed 3rd XI, having no league action played Gaddison Row in a friendly last Saturday. Batting first the home team set about the early Reed attack realising 65 for the loss of the first wicket – a fine catch by Rob Willoughby off Neil Haslam’s bowling (1-30). However the introduction just after of Jason Pallet’s slow bowling immediately caused problems and with Michael Robertson’s (1-39) fiery spell in support the home team found it more difficult to progress.

A very fine catch by Fergus Martin at long off set Pallett on his way, followed by another good low catch by Rob Peacock, a stumping by Steve Lovegrove and a superb turning delivery to bowl the last of his victims left Jason Pallett with figures of 4-1-24-4. A well judged catch on the third attempt by David Hill off Marcus Baker (1-32) saw the home side set a challenging 223 for 7.

Reed needed to chase in a positive manner and Fergus Martin (16) began well before being bowled very unfortunately in the second over. Peter Baker and Rob Willoughby (32) completed a sound 82 run partnership before the latter was caught. To the wicket came a very positive Michael Robertson who, although dropped fourth ball at long on, played a flawless innings from then on putting on 55 in a 72 run stand with the ever present Peter Baker. Robertson was eventually bowled and was quickly follwed by Peter Baker also bowled for a superb 79 – setting Reed up for the chance of a win.

A succession of quick wickets followed with the run outs of Marcus Baker (5) and a very unfortunate Tom Greaves before Steve Lovegrove (22 n.o.) and Jason Pallett (5 n.o.) attempted to steer Reed to victory, unfortunately only to fall 6 runs short. A fine effort and good game against potential Division 12 opposition next season!