Captain Bunn Leads Rasen to Victory

Scorecard

West Halton Lane was the venue for Market Rasen Town Cricket Club’s 1st XI as their promotion push continued against Alkborough 2nds. Lying second in Division 2, four points ahead of Grimsby Town 2nds with only six games to play, Rasen ventured out onto the Isle of Axholme knowing that only maximum points would do. Their task was made harder by the absence of four regulars including; Ian Williams and Gary Bierlein who have been the mainstay of Rasen’s batting this season and Karl Bierlein, the division’s leading wicket taker. However, having drafted in some experience for the occasion (your correspondent excepted), Rasen’s enthusiasm was undimmed as the confidence provided by their last two bowling performances continued to run through the team.

With the rain ‘mizzling’ as the players arrived and covers still on it was immediately clear that it would be a vital toss to win and Rasen’s skipper, Simon Bunn, again found himself calling correctly and lost little time in offering Alkborough the opportunity to bat first.

Bunn took the first over and his teammates were unable to prise the ball from his hand as he turned in a remarkable spell of 20.3 overs, unchanged up the hill, to take 7 for 40. He had the batsmen in trouble from the off, getting the ball to seam and swing and Alkborough’s openers were reduced to fighting for survival. At the other end Dan Norburn backed his skipper up, tearing down the hill to deliver some fine swing bowling and keeping things tight.

With pressure at both ends, Jenkins essayed one drive too many and found himself cleaned up by Bunn at the start of the 5th over. Rasen’s skipper then sent Balderson Snr on his way in the same over, trapped LBW to reduce the home side to 9 for 2. Norburn then got in on the action, inducing two edges straight to a narrow gully, where Richley pulled off his best Andy ‘Chippy’ Clay impersonation to pouch both and further worsen Alkborough’s dire position. Tom Corden replaced Norburn at the top end and the youngster bowled an excellent spell. He should have picked up a wicket or two, as excellent line and length induced edges as well as beating the batsmen on a number of occasions.

Neil Gray was the only Alkborough batsman to appear capable of living with Rasen’s attack, playing with the soft hands that the conditions demanded and content to take runs where he could whilst he waited for the few bad balls that came along. He could only watch from the other end as his hard work was undone by the tireless Bunn, who snaffled the next three wickets to catches from Stephenson, Corden and Atkinson to reduce the home side to 89 for 7 from 35 overs.

Whilst Bunn had chugged tirelessly up the hill, the bowling at the other end, Corden and Norburn excepted, threatened to offer Alkborough a way back into the game as a range of full tosses and long hops were served up from Luke and Dean Richards that Alkborough fell on with glee as they veritably roared past 100. It was the return of Norburn that saw any fears that Rasen may have harboured laid to rest, as he ended Gray’s vigil, dismissing the opener LBW for a painstaking 46. Bunn cleaned up the tail in the next over to dismiss Alkborough for 121 in the 41st over.

Rasen’s reply was clinical and controlled, as Jon Stephenson (42) and Dean Richards (46) initially dug in and waited for anything loose, which they despatched with authority. As one might expect, Alkborough’s veteran seamer Russ Kirman led the way for the home side, giving little away and he was well supported by Jenkins, as they both caused the batsmen some initial trouble. However, with both batsmen setting themselves and proving comfortable putting the bad ball away Alkborough had to ring the changes, at which point Stephenson and Richards, in particular, cut loose.

Both players were particularly harsh on the spin of O. Kirman, who bravely continued to give the ball plenty of air, but was punished for it on this occasion; one on-drive from Stephenson being particularly delightful. Richards found the pace of S. Leek more to his liking as his favourite cut shot was fed regularly and the pair had put on 93 for the first wicket in 22 overs, before Richards was caught behind. Leek changed his angle of attack to the left-handed Richards, coming round the wicket, and got his reward immediately with an edge through to the ‘keeper. Stephenson then holed out to mid-on in the same over to cause a palpitation or two in the Rasen ranks. However,
Tom Corden was joined by Rob Jeffrey (18*) and the pair put Rasen back on course. A tight run-out decision left Corden back in the pavilion, a little bemused, but Rasen stuck to their task and cantered over the line in the 31st over to win by seven wickets.

Meanwhile at Rase Park….

Scorecard

A reduced Rasen 2nd XI under the leadership of Shaun French, and inspired by Jonny Purkiss, stormed to an excellent four wicket win over fellow mid-table side, Morton. French won the toss and the Rasen attack, led by Purkiss’ 5 for 32, never let Morton get away and build the total they would have wanted. Purkiss was backed up by some fine fielding as well as keen bowling at the other end, particularly from Paul Bett (3 for 34). With Aaron Wells and George Fussey also turning in searching spells with the leather Morton were dismissed for 166 in only the 38th over.

With 51 overs to chase down the target Rasen’s openers might have been expected to take their time, but George Fussey (30) and Aaron Wells (29) attacked from the off, flaying the ball to all parts of Rase Park, putting on 47 in only 8 overs. The demise of Wells and Shaun French with the score on 68 put the game back in the melting pot, only for Rob Chamberlin (25) and Jonny Purkiss (61*) to put on 66 for the fourth wicket to take the game away from Morton. Purkiss shrugged off the loss of Chamberlin to continue his one-man crusade against the visitors from Gainsborough and lead Rasen to a comfortable 4 wicket win.

The wins see Rasen 1sts keep up their promotion push and the 2nds settling nicely into mid-table.

Tuesday Night in the Wolds

Rustic, but charming.

Tuesday Night is West Wold League night and yesterday saw another season of evening cricket start up in the Wolds. Rasen’s team this year is intended to be an U17 outfit, with enough adults playing in order that the lads can get to the game and we can get 11 people on the park.You couldn’t pick a more picturesque ground than Brocklesby Park, especially on a sunny, spring evening. One of the best squares in the West Wold League lies in a field that is well-shorn, if a little pitted by the incumbent rabbit population. Generally getting from the pitch to the pavilion involves negotiating a herd of cows who, whilst I’m sure they’re lovely, can be a little intimidating for a non-country type such as myself. Anyway, this week the cows were in the field next door and there was nothing to disturb the long trudge (certainly in my case!) back to deposit the pads and willow. Anyway, to the game – apologies to the Brocklesby lads who played well and I haven’t mentioned, I haven’t got the scorebook and didn’t write their names down on the night. Sorry about that.

Can you see where it went?

Rasen got first chance with the willow, with Luke Robinson (20) and Dean Richards looking to get the visitors off to a good start. Unfortunately, just as Richards was looking to find his range, an ambitious smite over the top was poorly-timed and resulted in a catch being fed to mid-off.

Robinson took his partner’s departure as the signal to crack on and unleashed some excellent shots, including one lofted straight-drive for six over mid-on. Unfortunately the next shot was an attempted mow over cow-corner, that saw the ash split asunder and his opportunity to light up the delightful spring evening lost.

Robbo Snr and Bunney Stride Triumphant from the Turf

Andy Richley continued to keep himself away from the strike as much as possible as first Rob Chamberlain and then Will Bunney (24*) took on the bowling. Bunney struck a number of fine blows and had a terrific time bludgeoning the ball around the ground. As Rasen looked for quick runs at the end, Bunney was ably assisted by Mark Robinson (18*) as Rasen closed their 16 overs on 97 for 5.

Simon Bunn and Ian Harvey opened up for Rasen and despite some loose deliveries, Harvey picked up the first couple of wickets and, after the first over, bowled a consistent line outside off stump. Bunn was unlucky not to cash in. The young spinners; Luke Robinson and Luke Richards both managed to extract turn and bounce from the early-season track as Brocklesby continued to flail away whilst steadily losing wickets. Whilst Rasen didn’t take all of their chances, some fine catching and fielding left Brocklesby needing 15 off the last over and despite a pretty shoddy loosener from Richley being despatched to the boundary, their last wicket pair were unable to do enough and could only ‘dot’ out the last ball of the innings to hand Rasen the win.

2nd XI End of Term Report

Roundup of the 2009 highs and lows and individual ‘pen-pics’

Market Rasen Town Cricket Club entered a 2nd XI in the Lincolnshire League for the first time since 2003 and used the team to introduce a number of juniors to senior cricket for the first time, with the team getting progressively younger as the season progressed. The following is a review of the highs and lows of the season and an individual assessment of each player who turned out for the 2nds this season.

High Point 1

25th April, 2009 – Lincoln. Two weeks into the 2009 season and the 2nds were top of the league, with two wins at Old Lincolnians having netted them 39 points. Little did we know that it would be July before we won again.   

High Point 2

12th September, 2009 – Rase Park. A 2nd XI with an average age of 17 defeat Alford 2nds in a must-win re-election clash. Child minder Andy Richley is said to have been ‘quite proud’.   

Low Point 1

25th July, 2009 – Hibaldstow. Having ended an 8 match losing streak at Brigg the week before, Rasen visited Scunthorpe 3rds for a vital basement clash with a young team, but high hopes. These were ended by a callow batting performance which saw tyro leg-spinner Josh Pashley (14) and wily veteran Fred Bachus (67) skittle Rasen for 64.    

Low Point 2

20th September, 2009 – Alford. Having won three of their last four to drag themselves out of the bottom two, Rasen were condemned to re-election as Alford bowled out Stamford Homes to garner the five bonus points they needed. To quote Captain Darling from Blackadder Goes Fourth, ‘Wrote a note in my diary. Simply says …. bugger.’    

What Went Right

Young players got the chance to play and, on the whole, flourished. George Fussey and Tom Corden showed composure at the crease that belied their years and, with the ball, Luke Richards, Jonny Purkiss, As Rampal and Tom Corden demonstrated their potential and caused batsmen plenty of problems. Andy Richley and Aaron Wells backed up the youngsters with the ball and when the veteran batsmen played, they strengthened the batting lineup.    

What Went Wrong

Two things; batting and catching.  

1. Batting – The side averaged 2 batting points a game, and that was inflated by a few batting second ‘5 point’ wins. Whilst the side were only ‘skittled’ for less than a 100 on three occasions, setting a competitive target of 170+ was something that the team only achieved on three occasions and we managed to lose one of those…

2. Catching – in one game alone, at Stamford Homes, more than ten chances were grassed. Whilst that was an extremely bad day at the office, it wasn’t an isolated case and holding onto chances offered is something the 2nds will have to work hard on in 2010 if they’re to improve. 

Player Assessments – The One Offs

The following gentlemen turned out just the once this season for the 2nds:
(Please Note – when we mention expectations for 2010, these are based on the hope that we will be re-elected, not the expectation.)  

Chris Janney

Canny swing bowling and reminaing undefeated at the crease highlighted Chris’ September call-up. More expected from him in 2010 in helping to ‘bring on’ the youngsters.  

Ian Smith

‘Bifter’ struck a pb of 6 not out at Hykeham and pouched a catch before football, girls and more entertaining pursuits called him away.  

Tom Bradford

We only managed to steal Tom away from the 1sts for one match and it was, unfortunately, the Mick Barton-led massacre of the batting when Stamford Homes visited Rase Park.  

James Telfer

We finally managed to get James a game on Bank Holiday Monday in August when, typically, the batting fired and the poor lad didn’t get to show his worth. 2010 should see him playing regularly – football and hockey permitting.  

Josh Colgan

A thrashing in Cleethorpes was all Josh had to show for his 2nd team season this year.  

Darren Salmon

The talented teenager showed glimpses of his ability at Washingborough, with both ball and bat, but was unavailable for the rest of the season. Would be a real asset in Lincs League 4 if he was available.  

Alex Norburn

Exams and injuries meant Alex was unable to fulfil his expected role of 2nd team regular. His outing in Cleethorpes was in a heavy defeat, but showcased his wicket-taking potential. Hopefully 2010 will see him able to play more regularly.  

Player Assessments – The Occasionals

The following gentlemen turned out less than seven times for the 2nds this season:  

Jon Stephenson

Club stalwart ‘Stavvers’ turned out twice for the seconds, ‘keeping respectably at Old Lincolnians and providing some ballast later in the season in-between he has had a reasonable season for the 1sts…  

Richard Limmer

28 runs at 14 and 3 for 43 from 12 overs in his two games are little indication of the value Richard provided when he played. Bubbly and encouraging in the field his 18 from 11 balls at Washingborough had the Champions-to-be running scared. Until he holed out.  

James Fussey

The team’s youngest player fielded for the 2nds’ last two games and, apart from nearly being decapitated against Alford, fielded excellently. Potentially he can’t bat and bowl for the team until 2011, which is gutting.  

Luke Robinson

The young county player turned out three times when the 1sts weren’t playing and helped the team to 2 of their 6 wins. Only one 50 meant his return with the bat was disappointing, compared to his usually high standards, but he ended the season with the second highest batting average (34.67) and 6 wickets.  

Chris Higgins

Another teenager for whom exams and injuries blighted the season. A fine 29 not out at Hibaldstow was the only bright spot of the side’s implosion there and showcased the ability ‘Titch’ possesses. His catch in the deep against Alford 2nds at Rase Park sealed the win.  

Rory Jackson

When not shooting things with his bow and arrow, or packing his bags for sixth form at the Grammar School, Rory turned out behind the ‘ash’ for the 2nds. The youngster grew in confidence with each performance, as well as showing some glimpses of potential with the willow. Looking to be the side’s regular ‘glove-man’ in 2010.  

Dean Richards

Limited to four appearances thanks to work commitments and the 1st team claiming him on more than one occasion, Dean still managed to hit the side’s highest score of the season (94 in April at Old Lincolnians), averaged 35 with the bat and 17 with the ball. His sure hands in the field saw him pouch 5 catches as well and his experience was invaluable when available.  

Will Bradford

Poached by the 1sts almost as soon as the season started Will didn’t get to live up to his fine start in Lincs League 4. Looks to be blossoming into a fine all-rounder though.  

Mick Corden

The veteran batsman was another player whose appearances were limited by work and 1st team poaching, but when he did turn out Mick showed his ability with the willow, averaging 43 in his three ‘digs’.  

Jonny Purkiss

Four wickets in five matches were not a fair reflection of Jonny’s efforts with the ball this season. The tall Tealby lad consistently troubled batsmen in his 34 overs and his last two games; at Alford and home against Hykeham, saw the opposition batsmen unstinting in their praise. An un-refined batting technique showed glimpses of potential for next season, when he promises to be a handful with both bat and ball.  

Will Bunney

The hockey-playing, middle-order batsman struggled to assert himself with the willow this season, but at 15 he has plenty of time to develop and showed enough at the crease, and in the field, to suggest there is plenty of talent there to build on.  

Rob Chamberlin

Another hockey-mad, middle order merchant, Rob’s fielding shined so brightly that the 1sts came calling with the season barely begun. His poor run with the bat actually improved at the higher level and his fielding continued to flourish in Lincs League 2.  

Richard Fussey

Veteran utility man Fussey was lost to the farm from mid-June onwards, but contributed key runs and effort before-hand. Key early-season veteran for 2010.  

Player Assessments – The Regulars

The following gentlemen featured regularly for the 2nds this season:  

Simon Clark

The Middle Rasen destroyer had a strangely subdued season with the bat for the 2nds. Only Ivan Nash and George Fussey topped his 171 league runs and, having picked them up in only 7 outings, his average of 28 was the highest of regular members of the side. With the 1sts poaching him and work commitments, Simon’s appearances were limited, but he made his mark on more than one occasion and his positive exhortations in the field were a constant encouragement to his young team-mates.  

Tom Hill

The tennis-playing ‘uni’ student was one of the senior players when he was available and showcased his excellent out-fielding and effective lower order batting. A steadying influence on the field and off, Tom’s overall contribution was worth far more than simply the runs he scored.  

Graham Charman

Whilst he only picked up one wicket, Graham showed glimpses of his old form with the ball towards the end of the season. A determined member of the squad, Graham was unfortunate to only play in one match the 2nds won, but his unflagging determination and enthusiasm were invaluable and bode well for 2010.  

Luke Richards

Despite a mid-season break where far off countries were gallivanted to, Luke still managed to finish the season as the side’s second-highest wicket taker, with 19 wickets at 15 in 10 games. His bowling during the season was not always consistent, but on his day batsmen were finding the youngster un-playable as his mixture of flight, guile and spin proved hard to cope with. With plenty of variation and ability Luke simply needs more overs in senior cricket and will continue to improve. Batting in the lower order Luke’s batting did not flourish to the same extent, but enough flashes were shown to provide encouragement for next season. 2010 should see Luke pushing for a place in the 1st XI.  

Aaron Wells

The early-season leader of the attack, pace man Aaron faded as the season progressed, due to injuries and work commitments. Still only 18, the youngster thrived initially, taking seven wickets in his first two games. He ended the season with 15 wickets at 23, but his unflagging determination was invaluable and, when riled, he continually showed the ability and pace to trouble batsmen up and down the order. With the willow Aaron displayed his potential on a number of occasions, but only managed to deliver once, at North Hykeham. 2010 should see Aaron leading the attack and pushing for a place in the 1st XI.  

Tom Corden

In his first season of senior cricket Tom showcased his potential as a fine all-round prospect, averaging 17 with the bat and taking 9 wickets at 23, going for only 3 an over. Along with George Fussey, 14-year-old Tom formed the core of the side’s middle order and, on a number of occasions, delivered innings of real quality. With a range of shots and confidence belying his years, Tom impressed all who saw him bat and, on a number of occasions, threatened to take games away from teams with the willow. Tom’s medium-fast bowling continued to improve throughout the season and he was unfortunate not to take more wickets.

As Rampal

15-year-old As Rampal finished the season 3rd in the bowling averages for the side with 15 wickets at 15, whilst ‘going’ for less than 3 an over. As’ medium-fast bowling improved throughout the season and his ability to move the ball, both in the air and off the seam, consistently troubled batsmen. With the bat As showed glimpses of potential and possess a bewildering array of shots, which once mastered will, we are certain, prove dangerous. 2010 will see As’ family moving to Scunthorpe and we wish him well.  

Shaun French

Vice-captain, wicket-keeper, cheerleader and all-round top chap, Shaun was the veteran presence behind the side in the field. Unflagging in his enthusiasm, tidy behind the ash and unfailing in his encouragement of the youngsters, Shaun was a key component of the side. His batting failed to flourish to the extent he would have liked, but this was more than made up for in effort and attitude. 2010 will see Shaun continue to vice-skip the team and, hopefully, start to flail visiting attacks around Rase Park a little more often.  

George Fussey

In his first season of senior cricket George demonstrated his ability and potential with the bat, as the rock of the 2nd team’s middle order. His fielding improved throughout the year and, in the limited opportunities he was provided, George showed his ability to flight and spin a ball with his looping leg-spin. In his first game of the season George put on 114 with Dean Richards at Old Lincolnians in a game-winning partnership. Whilst he only mustered 16 runs in the partnership, his unflustered batting and concentration at the crease were exemplary and were a sign of things to come for the season. Second in the batting aggregates with 172 runs at 16 in 14 games, George showed his penchant for occupying the crease on numerous occasions and received rave reviews from various opponents for his technique and ability. 2010 will see George back in the 2nds, looking to take his batting to the next level and start pushing for a place in the 1st XI.  

Ivan Nash

University student Ivan came back to Rasen following his ‘lost’ season of 2008 and had a frustrating year with the bat. He finished as the team’s leading run-scorer in the league with 187 runs at 14, but consistently found new and interesting ways of giving his wicket away. Strong on his legs and always able to score quickly Ivan seemingly had opposition attacks at his mercy on numerous occasions, but a top-score of only 31 tells its own tale. In the field Ivan was a constant encouragement to the youngsters in the side and pouched seven catches whilst fielding excellently throughout the year. 2010 will, we hope, see Ivan back in the 2nds (if the 1sts don’t whisk him away) and will, we confidently expect, witness him taking Lincs League 4 attacks to pieces.  

Andy Richley

The skipper had a good year with the ball, taking 29 wickets at 14 and sent down 137 overs at 3 an over. Andy’s batting was less impressive, with 166 runs at 17 a poor return on a number of promising starts. 2010 will see a svelte Andy back to skipper the side again and, potentially, he will not frighten quite so many opponents with his tight-white-polyester kit…

Rasen Cricket Roundup – 20/09/09

With the summer coming to a glorious end Market Rasen’s cricket teams ended their season with a whimper, with the 1sts soundly beaten by Louth 2nds and the Sunday XI unable to raise a team for their final game at Boston. This was compounded by bad news from the coast for the 2nd team, where Alford condemned Rasen’s young side to ninth spot in Division 4 and re-election for2010.

With Rase Park basking in an Indian Summer Simon Bunn, Rasen’s 1st team captain, won the toss and chose to bat. Louth 2nds rose to the challenge with the leather and their opening bowlers; Nagi Chodern and Owen Roberts, reaped the benefits of their tight start. Roberts made the initial breakthrough, yorking Dean Richards as the opener looked to break the shackles. Youngsters Luke Robinson and Luke Richards then set about repairing the damage, with Robinson latching onto anything over-pitched, despatching straight drives at will. Chodern finally reaped the reward for his efforts, bowling Luke Richards and starting a collapse that would see 3 wickets fall for 4 runs and Rasen reduced to 38 for 4.

The collapse brought Simon Clark to the crease to join Robinson and the pair set about repairing the damage in their differing styles. Clark mixed dogged defiance with a couple of flashes of aggression and Robinson continued to score at will, taking the home side to 66 for 4 at drinks. As is so often thecase, the break led to a wicket, with Robinson being bowled by Mark Roberts for a fine 43. With Robinson gone, and Clark becalmed, the Rasen batting folded to 87 all out with Laurence Scott claiming two outstanding catches at slip. Clark’s 17 not out was the only other score of note. Louth shared the wickets around ; Chodern (3 for 23), Owen Roberts (2 for 25) and Mark Roberts (3 for 22) carving up the batting between them.

Rasen made the best possible start in the field, with Dean Richards castling M. Searle in the third over. However, J. Medler came in and immediately set about the home attack. With his cover drive and pull-shot particularly crisp and Lee Freeman secure at the other end, Louth set about chasing down the inadequate total. Rasen’s young spinners; Luke Richards and Luke Robinson, prevented the romp turning into a rout, with Robinson despatching Searle for a brisk 38 and Hodgkins to finish with 2 for 16. Both bowlers were finding sharp turn and testing the balletic abilities of Mark Robinson behind the ash, however, Rasen were unable to prevent Louth winning by 7 wickets.

Rasen Cricket Roundup – 06-07/09/09

Amid threatening clouds and intermittent spells of sunshine Rasen’s senior teams managed to take two from three over the weekend, with only the 2nd XI failing to win and, in the process, finding themselves back in the re-election mire.

The 1st XI hosted Caistor 2nds and posted a convincing win against their local rivals, defeating them by 82 runs thanks to an excellent team effort with the bat and another fine display of bowling from Gary Bierlein. Batting first on a damp track at Rase Park, Dean Richards (28) and Jon Stephenson gave the home side a solid start. With scoring not easy, the Rasen batsmen set themselves to their task with steely determination. Whilst no single batsman dominated, the whole order contributed with Karl Bierlein (23), Simon Clark and Luke Richards standing out, as Rasen were bowled out for 143 in the last over.

In reply, Caistor 2nds found the going even tougher and whilst they managed to see out their 45 overs and deny Rasen full bowling points they closed on 61 for 9, having hardly played a stroke. Gary Bierlien was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4 for 15 from 20 overs with 11 maidens. He was well supported by Karl Bierlein (2 for 4), Simon Clark, Luke Robinson and Luke Richards.

The 2nd XI visited South Kelsey 2nds with another young side and put in a fine, battling performance. Choosing to bowl first on a green, damp track Rasen made South Kelsey work hard for their runs once Matt Burgess (24) was dismissed. Skipper Tony Potter (31) and Rob Baty (18) were the main contributors as the villagers struggled to 119 for 9 in the 40th over, only for Thompson (22 not out) and Gopal to take them up to 149 for 9 with some timely blows. All of Rasen’s bowlers contributed with As Rampal (3 for 12) the pick, backed up by Andy Richley (3 for 31), Tom Corden (2 for 39) and Chris Janney.

Rasen started their chase in style, with Nash getting off the mark with an effortless six over deep square leg. Unfortunately he perished soon after and, in a moment of madness, the skipper ran out his replacement to reduce Rasen to 17 for 2 in the sixth over. Andy Richley (40) and George Fussey (35) then batted well, with Richley riding a considerable amount of luck, to take the visitors to 70 for 2 at drinks. With Kelsey becoming frustrated, and only four an over required for victory, Rasen seemed to be at the races. Unfortunately Richley was bowled after the resumption, Fussey fell soon after and the rest of the lineup failed to contribute as Rasen were bundled out for 113 to lose by 36 runs. The loss puts Rasen back in the bottom two of Division Four with only one game left.

Sunday saw Market Rasen host Scothern and Rase Park witnessed another batting masterclass from Graeme Bell, as the all-rounder scored his maiden century, finishing on 102 not out in a total of 216 for 2 from 40 overs. With five half-centuries already this season, Bell took his tally for the year to 555 and brought up the Sunday side’s fourth ton of the season with 7 fours and 7 sixes, making a sluggish Rase Park pitch look easy to bat on. Of the visiting bowling attack only Johnny Drabble escaped punishment as Bell and his accomplices; Lawrence Scott (35) and Matthew Rutherford (52), led Rasen to an imposing total.

Once in the field Rasen’s opening bowlers set to their task with enthusiasm, but little luck, as Dale Chambers again failed to reap the rewards he deserved. It was left to spin twins Rutherford (3 for 15) and Jon Darke (5 for 43) to roll through the Scothern batting lineup and lead Rasen to victory.

Rasen Cricket Roundup – 11-12/07/09

Market Rasen 1sts hosted Owmby in a vital Lincolnshire League Division Two encounter, with both sides striving to pick up maximum points and maintain their push for the promotion places. Despite a solid bowling performance from Rasen, with another five wicket haul for Gary Bierlein the highlight, Rasen’s batting capitulated to hand Owmby a convincing win.

Batting first, Owmby found runs hard to come by against Rasen’s new ball attack, with Simon Bunn and Chris Potter sending down 14 overs between them for 25 runs. Will Bradford and Karl Bierlein continued with the parsimonius approach and after 26 overs Owmby were 43 for none. Once Gary Bierlein was introduced Rasen made a breakthrough,which prompted Owmby to take up the cudgels in rather more earnest than they had to this point. With wickets in hand, they upped the run-rate and closed on 140 for 8 from their 45 overs, thanks to 44 from K. Bowring and 32 from J. Stanser. Gary Bierlein finished with 5 for 53, spinning a web around the Owmby lineup with assistance from Karl Bierlein (3 for 43).

In reply Rasen’s batting failed to fire as they collapsed to 94 all out, with C. Deegan being the main beneficiary for Owmby, picking up 6 for 19 from 11 overs. Dean Richards, with 24, was the only Rasen batsman to make an impact as Owmby took advantage of a callow batting performance.

In the Division Four basement dwellers encounter at Brigg the 2nds won an enthralling contest by 13 runs. Choosing to bat first on a sporting track, Rasen showed a rare willingness to graft for their runs and benefited accordingly. George Fussey was the mainstay of the innings, again demonstrating his penchant for occupying the crease, top scoring with 33. Batting around Fussey, the rest of the top order contributed,with 26 from Simon Clark and contrasting 20s from Ivan Nash and Andy Richley. With wickets in hand, the middle order were able to fling the bat and boost Rasen to 170 for 8 from their 45 overs.

In reply, Brigg made Rasen work hard for their wickets, with Aaron Wells and As Rampal bowling well initially with little luck. It was only the introduction of the spin of Richley and Fussey that saw wickets start to fall, reducing Brigg to 55 for 3. Hildreth (32) and Musslewhite (56) came together and accumulated steadily, putting on 95 for the 4th wicket and looked to have taken the game away from Rasen, until Richley (4 for 32) snaffled both of the danger men and left the way clear for Clark (2 for 13) to help him mop up the tail and see Rasen to a much-needed victory.

Market Rasen’s Sunday side, reduced to 10 men, defeated Hartsholme at Rase Park, winning by 40 runs. Rasen batted first and saw Graeme Bell continue his fine form for the Sunday side, picking up his third half-century of the season. Matt Rutherford (27) and Gary Bierlein (20) also contributed, but the rest of the lineup failed to fire, with Rasen all out for 121. However, that proved more than enough as an excellent effort in the field saw Hartsholme rolled for 81. Bell and Dale Chambers set the tone, taking 4 for 28 and 3 for 25 respectively and Rutherford (2 for 11) and Bierlein (1 for 14) wrapped things up. Excellent fielding and a consistent performance with the cherry proving too much for Hartsholme.

Market Rasen Cricket – Weekend Roundup

Market Rasen’s teams saw defeat on all fronts over the weekend, with only the 2nd XI finding themselves in a tight game.

The 1st XI went down to their third defeat in as many games at Hykeham, losing by 30 runs.

The 2nd XI lost a thrilling encounter with South Kelsey 2nds by 3 wickets, in the final over of the match. Put into bat, Rasen made an inauspicious start, with both openers back in the hutch with only 12 runs on the board. Tom Corden, however, made light of the rocky beginnings to compile a composed 32 as he and Simon Clark put on 52 for the third wicket. Unfortunately, both fell with the score in the 60s to leave Rasen 69 for 4 after 22 overs and, based on the season so far, little batting to come. Fortunately for Rasen, the lower order contributed some invlaulable runs, led by the skipper, Andy Richley (35) with able assistance from Luke Richards (26) and As Rampal (22 not out), Rasen closed on 195 for 9 from their 45 overs. Lankton was, statistically, the pick of the bowling, snaffling 4 for 58, whilst Gopal took 2 for 27 from 11 overs.

South Kelsey got to a fine start, as Aaron Wells struggled to find the best length for the pitch and it took the introduction of Dean Richards to break the opening partnership, which had put on 50, bowling Burgess for a combative 33 in the 11th over. Rasen managed to stem the flow of runs, as Richley (2 for 35 from 12 overs), Dean Richards (2 for 38 from 9 overs) and Luke Richards bowled tight and agressive lines. Wickets proved harder to come by though, as a young Rasen side shelled five chances in the field and allowed Kelsey’s batsmen too many chances. This allowed Pearson (51) and B. Potter (36) to steer them to within sight of victory and left Rasen too much to do in the final overs. An enthralling match was finished in the last over as South Kelsey edged past Rasen.

The Sunday XI lost at Nettleham by 51 runs. The home side batted first and compiled an imposing 202 for 7, whilst Graeme Bell ran in tirelessly for scant reward, only Matt Rutherford and Gary Bierlein made an impact with the ball, both taking 3 wickets. They were backed up by some impeccable work behind the ash from Rasen’s ‘keeper; Lee ‘Che de Villiers’ Chambers.

Rasen struggled to put together the partnerships required to chase down Nettleham’s total and whilst Bierlein (37) and Chambers (32) rounded off good personal performances, the rest of the batting lineup failed to fire, with Rasen closing on 151 all out.

Published in Market Rasen Mail, Wednesday 1st July

Rasen Cricket Roundup – 27-28/06/09

Market Rasen’s teams saw defeat on all fronts over the weekend, with only the 2nd XI finding themselves in a tight game.

The 1st XI went down to their third defeat in as many games at Hykeham, losing by 30 runs.

The 2nd XI lost a thrilling encounter with South Kelsey 2nds by 3 wickets, in the final over of the match. Put into bat, Rasen made an inauspicious start, with both openers back in the hutch with only 12 runs on the board. Tom Corden, however, made light of the rocky beginnings to compile a composed 32 as he and Simon Clark put on 52 for the third wicket. Unfortunately, both fell with the score in the 60s to leave Rasen 69 for 4 after 22 overs and, based on the season so far, little batting to come. Fortunately for Rasen, the lower order contributed some invlaulable runs, led by the skipper, Andy Richley (35) with able assistance from Luke Richards (26) and As Rampal (22 not out), Rasen closed on 195 for 9 from their 45 overs. Lankton was, statistically, the pick of the bowling, snaffling 4 for 58, whilst Gopal took 2 for 27 from 11 overs.

South Kelsey got to a fine start, as Aaron Wells struggled to find the best length for the pitch and it took the introduction of Dean Richards to break the opening partnership, which had put on 50, bowling Burgess for a combative 33 in the 11th over. Rasen managed to stem the flow of runs, as Richley (2 for 35 from 12 overs), Dean Richards (2 for 38 from 9 overs) and Luke Richards bowled tight and agressive lines. Wickets proved harder to come by though, as a young Rasen side shelled five chances in the field and allowed Kelsey’s batsmen too many chances. This allowed Pearson (51) and B. Potter (36) to steer them to within sight of victory and left Rasen too much to do in the final overs. An enthralling match was finished in the last over as South Kelsey edged past Rasen.

The Sunday XI lost at Nettleham by 51 runs. The home side batted first and compiled an imposing 202 for 7, whilst Graeme Bell ran in tirelessly for scant reward, only Matt Rutherford and Gary Bierlein made an impact with the ball, both taking 3 wickets. They were backed up by some impeccable work behind the ash from Rasen’s ‘keeper; Lee ‘Che de Villiers’ Chambers.

Rasen struggled to put together the partnerships required to chase down Nettleham’s total and whilst Bierlein (37) and Chambers (32) rounded off good personal performances, the rest of the batting lineup failed to fire, with Rasen closing on 151 all out.

Rasen Cricket Roundup – 30/05/2009

A sun-drenched Rase Park witnessed a tour de force performance from Chris Potter, as he led Market Rasen’s 1^st XI to a 33 run victory over Keelby in their Lincolnshire League Division 2 encounter. Rasen batted first and compiled a competitive 225 all out, built around two fine, if contrasting, innings from Jon Stephenson and Chris Potter. Stephenson opened and rode his luck on a number of occasions, but made Keelby pay dearly for failing to take their chances, plundering 87 runs. Stephenson was well supported by Rob Jeffries but, until the advent of Potter, found little other support. Potter joined Stephenson with Rasen poised to push on and the pair did not disappoint, putting on 111 for the 4^th wicket. Potter unfurled a wide range of strokes, with his quality evident to all as he compiled a chanceless 91. Keelby stuck to their task in the sweltering conditions and were rewarded by bowling Rasen out for 225.

With the sun still shining, a fast outfield and a true track, Rasen had to work hard to seal the victory and led by Chris Potter (3 for 46), the attack worked together as a unit to bowl Keelby out for 192. The rest of the wickets were shared round, with Gary Bierlein (2 for 47), Dean Richards (2 for 34), Will Bradford (1 for 20) and Karl Bierlein (1 for 34) all contributing.

The 2^nd XI travelled to Washingborough with a young team and found life more difficult than their senior counterparts. Asked to field in balmy conditions, the Rasen attack kept Washingborough’s openers honest, but did not unduly trouble them. The introduction of Luke Richards (1 for 20) saw Rasen’s first breakthrough, to leave Washingborough 61 for 1 but whilst Richards, Darren Salmon (1 for 28 from 9 overs) and Andy Richley (3 for 40 from 12 overs) kept the scoring rate down, it was not until As Rampal’s second spell that Rasen started to roll through the Washingborough lineup. With Washingborough on 121 for 1 after 31 overs Rasen looked set to be chasing 220-plus on the small, tree-lined ground, when As Rampal ripped through the top order, taking 4 for 18 from 5 overs. Despite a number of dropped chances and occasional sloppiness in the field, Rasen did well to restrict Washingborough to 168 for 9 from their 45 overs.

However, all of Rasen’s earlier efforts were rapidly thrown away once they attempted to wield the willow. With one exception, all of the top order made starts, but none went on to make the score that would have given Washingborough pause for thought. The run-rate was never a problem, but wickets were falling at a similarly rapid pace to sabotage any ambitions Rasen had of the win. Only an 8^th wicket partnership of 30 between Tom Hill (25) and Rory Jackson restored a vestige of pride as the Rase Park outfit were bowled out for 115, Carl Gloss ending up with 4 for 20, to hand Washingborough victory by 53 runs.

Market Rasen Weekend Cricket Round-Up – 18/04/2009

The end of the Easter holidays saw Market Rasen’s cricketing sons back in league action on a beautiful, is somewhat brisk, weekend.

The 2^nd XI were at Old Lincolnians for a re-arranged Home fixture and won by 10 runs. They were only denied the outright win by a whisker, 9 wickets down at the close of their inning. This was the re-formed 2^nd XI’s first game and they got off on the right foot by winning the toss and choosing to have first use a suprisingly hard track at Christ’s Hospital School. Rasen made a brisk, if profligate start and 57 for 2 after 11 overs, with Ivan Nash contributing a bright 31 (5 fours) before becoming over-ambitious. This brought George Fussey (13) to the crease in his first senior league match for Rasen. Together with Dean Richards he put on 114 for the 3^rd wicket in 27 overs, compiling an unflustered and classy 16 (1 four) and proved the perfect foil for Richards, who put a varied Old Lincolnians attack to the sword, racking up 94 (13 fours). Richards unfurled a wide range of shots, but his cover driving and a pulling were particularly memorable. With both falling within six balls of each other, Rasen were 176 for 4 and looking to push on for the last few overs, but with two new batsmen at the crease, progress was not assured. However, Tom Corden (14) also playing his first senior league match, made his mark with a sparkling cameo of 25 not out (3 fours), putting on 34 for the fifth wicket with Richard Fussey to get Rasen to 210 for 4 after their 45 overs.

Aaron Wells and Tom Corden took the new ball for Rasen and made Old Lincolnians graft for the solid start they desperately required. Wells bowled a good line, with pace and little luck in his first spell, whilst Corden made the most of his first opportunity with the ball, finding some in-swing, and was the first to strike, bowling Mangham for 11 in the sixth over. Rasen had to wait another 9 overs for their next break-through, with Limmer finding reward for a searching spell with the wicket of Rees for 18. This set the scene for Luke Richards to mark his 2^nd XI debut in style, sending down a fine spell of spin bowling that repeatedly tested the batsmen and garnering 2 for 42. Rasen’s other bowlers continued to chip away at Old Lincolnians as the match remained in the balance. A pugnacious 53 from Matt Jelly threatened  to take the game away from Rasen, but Wells returned to immediate effect to reap the reward for his earlier efforts. With Jelly gone, Old Lincolnians continued to strive for runs, but Rasen’s total always looked sufficient, despite Dowson, Dave Hill and Savage all compiling 20s. A fascinating and even game came down to Rasen needing one wicket from the last two overs and Old Lincolnians needing 23 runs. Neither side backed down and a fine match closed with Old Lincolnians on 200 for 9.

Rasen acquried 19 points out of a possible 20, making a fine start to the Division 4 campaign for the 2^nd XI.

Market Rasen 1^st XI did not have such an enjoyable time on the North Lincolnshire coast on Sunday, opening their league campaign against Cleethorpes 4^th XI. Rasen were bowled out for 96, with Karl Bieirlein compiling 36 and whilst the 1^st XI fielded and bowled well, the total was not defensible and was knocked off for the loss of 6 wickets, Karl Bieirlein being the pick of the Rasen attack with 2 wickets.

Cricket returns to Rase Park this weekend, with the 1^st XI playing Hartsholme 2^nd XI, whilst the 2nds travel to Old Lincolnians again.