New Vic up to ninth after much needed win

NEW Victoria first Xl had a much needed win last Saturday against Halsall/ West End at Rufford Road. The first innings was reduced to 40 overs due to the time lost to heavy rain. Batting first, New Vic lost early wickets to the bowling of Alex Rimmer (4 for 32).

New Vic had the patience and technique of Jack Sawbridge (61 in 6 4s and 1 6) to thank for their revival.

Barry Mills (37 inc 6 4s) bolstered the middle order in the face of the bowling of Jack Johnson (4 for 40) who ripped the heart out of the New Vic batting, with three wickets falling with the score on 120.

Harry Sawbridge (20 inc 2 4s and 1 6) was the only other New Vic batter on double figures, as the returning Alex Rimmer mopped up the tail.

New Vic finished on 157 all out in 39 overs.

When Halsall came to bat they were immediately struck by the bowling of Keiron Rigby (7 overs-4 maidens-14 runs- 5 wickets) and Barry Mills (11 overs- 2 maidens - 45 runs - 4 wickets) to remove the top order.

Only Jack Jackson (26) showed resistance but he was caught by Joe Sawbridge off the bowling of Mills. At one stage Halsall were reduced to 18 for 5. Rigby blew away the middle order, with Gary Southworth (12 not out) resisting bravely. The final wicket fell to the bowling of Jamie Bray (2.1 overs - 0 maidens - 7 runs -1 wicket) who had David Johnson caught by Barry Mills.

Halsall/West End finished on 85 all out in 27.1 overs with New Vic winning by 72 runs.

New Vic took the 20 winning points and move up to ninth in the Premier Division table with three games to play.

The second Xl were again frustrated by inactivity but have moved to the top of Division Three thanks to the concession of Newburgh seconds. However second placed Dalton have a game in hand whilst New Vic must wait for three weeks to play their remaining fixture.

On Saturday New Vic 1sts are at home again to Dalton at Rufford Road,130 start.