Whilst Reeds future in the Village Cup was decided at the Green, the Sunday second eleven travelled to Elmdon for a 40/40 friendly. Reed batted first having lost the toss and started steadily as George Greaves and Ed Blissett played themselves in. Whilst Greaves (13) eventually fell, Blissett remained at the crease and with some sensible stroke play made fifty assisted by Richie Barlow (7) and Marcus Martin (14). Runs down the order from James Bloor (12), Kallum Ward (34*) and Jack Tidey (6*) took Reed to a stable 183 for 7.
Elmdons innings saw wickets fall at regular intervals from the bowling of Neil Haslam (8-2-25-3), K.L. Ward (8-3-22-3), R. Barlow (5-0-27-2) and J.Bloor (6-0-33-1). M. Martin displayed some brilliant fielding as did R. Barlow who took a fantastic catch at square leg before having keeper M.J.E. Baker catch one from his first ball. Despite having the hosts at 79 for 8 an impressive partnership between A. Gale (42) and A. Dixon (44*) led Elmdon to victory. The weary Reed side left the fixture naturally disappointed with the outcome but can hopefully come away with some lessons for the future.
