First XI crush Bangor
24-07-10
Richard Jones struck a superb 89 and Jonathan Hunter took five wickets to help Carmel's First XI score a crucial victory over fellow promotion contenders Bangor Second XI in a rain-affected contest at Pen-y-Gelli.
In a match reduced to 37 overs because of the weather Carmel were asked to bat by Bangor and skipper Danny Oliver and fellow opener Jones wasted little time in attacking the visitors bowling attack.
The pair put on 109 for the first wicket before Oliver (45) was bowled but Jones kept up the momentum in tough batting conditions as he made and impressive 89.
Wicketkeeper Danny Owens (15) and Gareth Hughes (11) also chipped in with brisk contributions as Carmel's innings closed on a competitive 189/7.
After a fairly indifferent season with the ball Jonathan Hunter returned to something like this best form as he took his first five-wicket haul of the season to put Carmel in control when play resumed after the tea interval.
Hunter removed one of the Bangor openers without scoring and proceeded to demolish the lower middle-order cheaply to finish with season-best figures of 5-24 from 11 overs.
Leading wicket taker Steve 'Scooter' Jones (2-18) also claimed two victims while mystery spinner Chris Davies finished with 1-22 as Bangor were restricted to 102/8 from their allotted overs. Full scorecard here...
The 9-1 points victory left Carmel in fourth place, only nine points off second-placed Gwersyllt Park and 12 behind leaders Menai Bridge in North Wales Cricket League Division Two after the 14th round of fixtures. Latest league standings here...