Reed IV versus Old Elizabethans III, Away on Saturday 22nd May 2010. Old Elizabethans won the toss and elected to bat first on a somewhat shabby pitch at Elstree CC. Will Kirby, (1 for 39), struck early but wickets did not fall frequently enough for Reed to be in total control. The run rate was not high, so Old Es’ total of 171 for 7 in the full 47 overs was not considered to be too imposing. The metronomic Ian Roberts again picked-up wickets, returning 3 for 27, and there were also wickets for Peter Baker, (2 for 26), and Alan Ward, (1 for 8), as well as Kirby’s opener.
In reply, Baker was out cheaply and, surprisingly, Paul Garrott registered his first “out” of the season after scoring only 11. Two more quick wickets left Reed in a precarious position, but Peter Bradford hit-out for 23, whilst John Kershaw top scored with 48. At 100 for 7, Reed’s captain realised that victory was beyond them but with 12 overs remaining, orders were to play only the straight deliveries and to leave the others alone. Roberts stayed for a while and Nick Green held-out for 5 overs then Chris West faced an over, but the draw was achieved only by a sensible innings by Will Kirby who was undefeated on 11 not out with some straight bat defending. Reed found themselves in 4th position in the Division at the end of the day. Match Drawn. Reed IV 9 points; Old Elizabethans III 19 points
