Depleted fourths in eight-wicket triumph
MARPLE’S fourth team were once again forced to field 10 men against Stockport Georgians, a side still looking for their first win of the season.
After the visitors elected to bat first on an excellent strip, they made a steady but unspectacular start with the returning Chris Barlow very impressive.
The game was interrupted by a heavy shower with Stockport in a strong position having lost no wickets and 80 on the board.
However, the introduction of Paul Roberts’ leg spin and Rick Major soon saw the momentum change.
Roberts took some punishment from the opener but kept his nerve to bowl him for 80 with Major picking up 4-32 at the other end.
Mention should also be made of stand-in keeper Sam Stretton who only conceeded four byes and Cameron Major with two good catches as the visitors were restricted to 173.
With very little batting available, Rick Major opened with 14-year-old Sam Stretton, again volunteering to open against a very hostile attack. They managed to see off both openers in an excellent 50 partnership. Stretton departed just after the drinks interval with the score on 74 which brought Roberts to the wicket.
He produced solid support to skipper Rick Major as he passed 50 and the pair took the score to within 20 of victory before Major fell for 88.
Roberts then saw Marple home with a magnificent 47 not out to secure a superb eightwicket win for the hosts.