Seconds’ rollercoaster ride continues

MARPLE second eleven’s topsy turvy season continued with a disappointing defeat to bottom side Timperley on Saturday.

Only veteran Garry Cash with 42 was able to make a substantial score as too many batsmen were guilty of gifting away their wickets.

The total of 121 was a way under par score on a good batting pitch.

Marple’s opening attack of Josh Kirk and Joel Greasley bowled with purpose though, and Kirk picked up three quick wickets.

After a long break due to a torrential rain shower, Clarke surprisingly introduced his spinners who were unable to keep up the pressure.

Seamers Clarke and Matt Shelton picked up three late wickets between them, but the visitors eventually got home by three wickets.

This was a frustrating display from Clarke’s men, especially after the previous week’s win at leaders Nantwich.

It was left to Marple thirds to put a sizeable score on the board in their first home game of the season.

They did this in no uncertain terms. 266 for 5 declared from just 42 overs may well be a third team record score. Jonny Arrowsmith hit 80, Luke Greasley 63, Matt Barrow 56 and Sam Stretton 27 against Sale thirds.

It looked as though a total annihilation was on the cards as Sale slumped to 19 for 5!

However, a fantastic sixth wicket partnership of 131 between Sandeep Yadal and Asad Khan took the visitors to 150 before former skipper Andy Gichero turned bowler to break the stand, Yadal out for 66.

Khan went on to 88 before the impressive Tom Reeve struck for Marple.

Reeve wrapped up victory for Marple when he took the final Sale wicket and ended with fine figures of 5 for 50.

Sale all out 204, and victory by 62 runs for Marple in an excellent game of third team cricket.