Reed’s promotion push was maintained on a sweltering day at Hatfield, as they registered a resounding 9 wicket victory over struggling Hatfield in 35 degree heat. The win maintains their second place position, as both 3rd and 1st placed St Albans IIs and Hertford IIs managed to sneak victories in their games.

Despite losing the toss and being forced to field, Reed made the most of any pitch movement with a dream start, as their openers William Clarke (11-2-36-3) and Richard Johnson (5-2-13-1) removed the opening pair between them. Clarke continued as he sharply sent the number three back to the pavilion leaving Hatfield reeling on 16 for 3. Despite some resistance from M.Golder (29), Reed veteran Peter Tidey (9.5-1-35-4) took two crucial mid-order wickets to maintain the momentum for the visitors. Bowling in conjunction with Richard Jerome (1-4-3-2), who bamboozled the Hatfield with his variations in flight and pace, the Reed men managed to finally dismiss the hosts for a paltry 89 in just 32.5 overs.

With the prospect of defending such a small total, the Hatfield bowlers started positively by dismissing Tom Fulk (4) with the score on 12, but James Heslam’s chanceless knock of 64*, his second half century in as many weeks, supported by Chris Jackson (19*), saw Reed overpower the opposition in only15.5 overs.

Reed are due to host league leaders Hertford IIs next week in possibly the most important league match of the season, as they try to strengthen their promotional bid to Division 2, and create a gulf between them and 3rd place. Simon Jackson, Reed 1XI skipper and club captain, remained upbeat: “we have the players to win, and with our opening bowler Michael Berks back, we are keen to show Hertford that we are not an ordinary village team.”