An opening stand of 166 between Will Heslam (106) and Sam Osborne (55), providing the anchor, gave Reed the impetus to post a fine score against Hitchin on a road. Both openers rode their luck, surviving sharp chances in the slips, but Heslam was in fine form hitting 14 boundaries and Osborne gave him steady company with his second half century of the season. When both were out in quick succession you feared another batting collapse, but Rob Lankester, Zac McGuigan, Sean Tidey and Bertie Scott all made double figures, although Tom Greaves fired a swift 30, including two maximums, to ensure Reed totalled 254 for 6 in their 50 overs.
Hitchin were beset with injuries caused during the game to two of their top three batters, but that did not hamper A.J. Momi, who smashed 87 with 10 boundaries and 4 maximums, despite batting with a runner throughout. However, unlike in Reed’s innings, he was not supported by his top order, which succumbed to the spin of Scott and Greaves, taking two wickets apiece. A defining moment came when McGuigan returned with a fiery spell of 2-13, including the prize wicket of Momi, trapped in front. Only wicketkeeper, Dryden (37) caused a flutter of concern, but Toby Fynn with 3-35 cleaned him up to leave Hitchin on 214.
It was a fine all round performance demonstrating how important a sound start is for a winning score.
Match Report submitted by Peter Wholley.
