Reed Firsts narrowly failed to beat the League leaders, Shenley Village, losing by 1 wicket.
Seven Reed batters scored over 19, but none managed to top 30. Sam Osborne (26), Kallum Ward (30), Max Sanderson (19), Jack Caine (21) and Rob Lankester (30) all looked set, but none managed to push on, leaving the innings in the balance at 153-6. Fortunately the recovery was led by Tom Greaves (24), making a welcome return to the side, and Vibes Ghadvhi (27), playing against his former club, who took the score to 197, only for Reed to lose the last 4 wickets for just one run.
When Toby Fynn bowled County player, Charlie Thurston in the middle of a fine spell of 4-30, an upset looked on the cards, but Shenley’s middle order dug in. However Sean Tidey chipped in with two quick wickets, including that of top scorer Will Thompson to put Reed back in the driving seat. Shenley’s lower order have defeated Reed in the past and they took the score to 176-9 as Jack Tidey, Greaves and Lankester claimed a wicket apiece. It was then that the rain proved to be Reed’s downfall. Ahead on DLS, an anxious hour ensued for the home team until the umpires deemed there was enough time for four more overs. It only took Aussie, Kris Nissen three to knock off the runs and deny Reed a memorable victory.
A sterling performance by the home team with some excellent fielding, catching all the five chances given. It was a shame they fell 20 runs short of a winning total.
Match Report submitted by Peter Wholley.
