Reed won the toss and batted first in this crucial Saracens Herts Division 8 match as tabletopping Reed took on 4th placed North Enfield.
Ian Fulk and Paul Watts had few problems as they put on 120 before Fulk fell for 78. Chris Shorrock and John Heslam kept the board ticking in company with Watts before Peter Baker arrived at the crease to score a rapid 35* in company with Watts who achieved 53* enabling Reed to declare early at 221-3 after 47 overs. Jim Allsopp and Andrew Emms each took a quick wicket as North Enfield set slowly about chasing a game they badly needed to win. However despite Reeds generous declaration they seemed more intent on not losing rather than winning. As drizzle fell and the ball became difficult to control Conway 57 and Watts 42 at last made some effort at acceleration. However when both were dismissed leaving North Enfield 140-6 it became a question of whether Reed could force the win or not. Sharp catches by Chris Shorrock and skipper Heslam opened the door for Reed and the return to the attack of Jim Allsopp proved decisive as he clean bowled the last two batsmen. Allsopp 3-32 Jason Archer 3-43 and Andrew Emms 2-40 were Reeds top bowlers in a vital 49 run win. |
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