The four’s suffered their first defeat of the season on Saturday when they went up against Hertford V. Batting first, at the charming ground in Thunderidge, Reed were soon put on the back foot with two wickets lost for only nine runs. Opener Peter Baker persisted none the less and led the way as Reed started to make runs. Sam Deville (20) gave another useful innings supporting Baker before knicking one to first slip. Baker was also eventually out caught but not before making a hard fought 60. Once again Reeds total benefited from runs down the order from James Bloor (23), Luke Cox (17), Will Kirby (13*) and Ian Roberts (13*). Reed finished on the reasonable score of 162 for 8 from 47 overs.
Reed were well aware that Hertford were blessed with some class batsmen, but the bowlers still went out with determination to defend the total. Will Kirby (8-2-35-2) led the Reed attack as both James Bloor (9-0-42-2) and Sam Deville (5-0-18-1) picked up wickets. However, no one seemed able to remove opener R. Carter (96), who played a sensible innings, until Luke Cox (1.5-0-7-1) was awarded his wicket LBW with his first ball. Unfortunately despite their best efforts Reed watched as the winnings runs were hit and Hertford left the field on 163 for 6. Reed may certainly think that had they made a more competitive score then they may well have won but in reality Hertford included some class experienced players and were stronger on the day. Despite losing Reed came away with fourteen points and remain in the top four.
