First XI fall short
13-06-10
Carmel First XI's hopes of winning promotion from North Wales Cricket League Division Two took a hit after they suffered a 73-run defeat at rivals Gwersyllt Park.
Skipper Danny Oliver lost the toss and the home side elected to bat on a placid pitch in good conditions and the decision was vindicated as Carmel's bowlers faced an afternoon of toil.
Despite some impressive early bowling from Michael Harrison (3-50) the visitors attack was generally under the cosh as Gwersyllt piled up the runs.
Jonny Hunter (1-58) and Steve 'Scooter' Jones (1-20) both also picked up a wicket each but it was scant consolation as the hosts closed their innings on 227/5 from 45 overs.
Carmel's response after the tea interval got off to the worst possible start as openers Oliver (6) and Rich Jones (2) fell early to leave the score on 13/2.
Wicketkeeper Will Loveland found the boundary on four occasions as he made 23 but after he was dismissed with the score on 38 Carmel's reply stalled as they never threatend the home side's total.
After Gareth Hughes fell for 13 Nick Washbrook (55 not out) and Mike Williams (33no) put on an unbroken 97-run stand for the fifth wicket but the manner of the chase was overly cautious.
Carmel ultimately fell well short of the target, despite holding six wickets in hand, and were on the wrong end of an 8-2 points split. Full scorecard here...