That a game of cricket took place and was completed was a miracle of its own on an evening of dramatic skies and orchestral thundery rumblings.

Conditions for play at the start were marginal. The ground crew wrestled with reluctant machinery; one puncture and a submission and managed to declare the ground fit for play and to prepare a strip for Sunday’s game.

The SOA opted to field first and gave their younger bowlers a good chance to exploit the conditions. MSCC shuffled a batting order allowing some a chance to bat up the order. Wheels started to fall off the Middleton tractor when Jamie Lumb was taken by a stunning catch at short cover in the third over – his only option to applaud the athleticism of the catcher. Matt Dipple threatened to build a score but fatally missed a straight delivery, while Ben Breaker showed promise opening for the first time. Andrew Thomas added impetus and top scored with 24, but the final total of 102 was always under par even on a difficult pitch. It must be noted that the meteorological conditions had made the light so dark that the umpires were unable to see their light metres and that not a single person on the ground expected anything other that a deluge washing out the game as the inning closed.

SOA had no difficulties in coping with the conditions and soon put the ball deep into the long grass. Only Dan Harris showed the necessary acumen with the ball, he was very unlucky not to pick up a wicket. He was responsible in other ways for the only wicket that did fall, a great decision to throw to the Umpires end, effecting a smart run out. SOA cruised home to a deserved victory.

For one of the rare times this season both sides had an umpire and a scorer, many thanks Chris and Richard. Once again we were indebted to the Hickmans for manning bar and barbeque, players take note… it is your turn next.