Connell was the main man for visiting side, Woodcutters, in this competitive fixture played in superb conditions on Sunday. Having skyed a No-Ball that was caught and then skying another similar shot off a legitimate delivery that was dropped in the same over, he then bludgeoned his way to 42. Isaacs, Bevan and Browne all contributed useful runs too, but the visitors never really ran away with the game. Reed’s youthful attack kept in the game and regularly picked-up wickets. Like an Oasis on a hot, dark night, Richie Barlow’s bowling was a welcome sight. He accounted for 3 wickets for 25 runs as he was supported by good catching from the fielders. Fellow opener bowler, Marcus Baker, took 2 for 21, and other wickets were taken by promising spinners Ed Garrott, (2 for 30), and Matt Bowles, (2 for 11). Eventually, Woodcutters’ innings ended at 157.

With plenty of time to achieve the target, Reed were promptly sent reeling as Connell took-out both openers and fellow opening bowler, Browne, bowled the number 3 in quick succession. It looked a long haul as the “red-helmeted twins”, Dave Johnson and Marcus Baker, set-about rebuilding the innings after being 20 for 3. Baker went for 15 and was replaced by the even more youthful Ed Garrott who in partnership with Johnson calmly and competently put-on a further 60 runs.

Garrott was caught for 30 but the 14 year-old had already impressed with his mature approach to the task. Meanwhile Johnson appeared increasingly more confident the longer he was at the crease and he reached his maiden half-century in senior cricket with a lofted on-drive. He was unfortunately out LBW shortly afterwards, but he had done a marvellous job after Reed had been in early trouble.

After one more scare however, and with the lively Connell and Browne returned to the attack, the experienced Alan Ward, 16 not out, and Peter Baker, made sure of victory by knocking-off the last 20 runs to overhaul the target within 35 overs. Connell had taken 3 for 53 and ex-Reed player, John Clifton, 3 for 27 with his dobbers.

Eight of Reed’s team on show were either current or recent past products of the successful Reed Colts section. Their individual and collective contributions demonstrate that Reed’s playing future appears in good hands and is not reliant only on one or two ‘star’ performers.