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Elford 1st XI 2006 - sponsored by Cloud 10 Lap Dancing Club
Standing from left to right; Danny Haines, Tony Allen, Rob Collett, Danny Hackett, Ant Wright, Dillon Weller (captain), Sam Griffiths, Ed Collett
Seated; Jimmy Edger, Rich Collett, Simon Smith, Malcolm MacDonald |
Warwick 1sts Elford 1sts
Lost by 144 runs
Elfords final game of the season ended in disappointment as they were easily beaten by division champions Warwick. Having asked the homeside to bat first Elford made a promising start through Danny Haines and Rob Collett, who both bowled long spells without much reward. Both took wickets but the Warwick middle order rode their luck and started to build a large total. The golden arms of Stand in skipper Simon Smith and Ed Collett brought about 2 more wickets late on, however Warwick finished on a comfortable 242 4 of 50 overs. Elford never got started in their Innings and with wickets and heads falling quickly, Elford crumbled to a season worst 98 all out. Only Simon Smith 37 and a very patient 36 from Tony Allen, offered any resistance too an accurate Warwick bowling attack.
Elford 1sts Vs Griff & Coton 1sts
Elford won by 9 wickets
Elford finally climbed out of the drop zone for the first time in 3 months as they demolished their relegation rivals by 9 wickets. Elford played host to Griff & Coton with both teams desperate for the victory, in what was a must win game for both sides. Elford asked Griff to bat first and were soon rewarded as they got off to a flying start. Danny Haines ploughed throw the top order with 3 33 off 18, while at the other end Simon Smith took his first 5 wicket haul in 5 years, with match winning figures of 5 47 off 15. Helped by very tidy fielding and several excellently taken catches Elford dismissed their opponents for 149 in 46 overs. Smith then showed his all around ability as he and Rob Collett dispatched the Griff attack around the park. The pair put on 114 for the first wicket before Smith was bowled, however he still managed to top score with 64. Rob Collett ended with a very patient 49* while Tony Allen hit the winning runs with 18*, as Elford reached 150 1 inside 26 overs. With 20 points from the game, Elford leaped past Griff to go 7 points clear of their rivals. Elford now travel to top placed Warwick while Griff travel to 2 nd placed Handsworth in what will be a very close end to the season.
Ambleside 1sts Vs Elford 1sts
Losing Draw
Elford produced a valiant rearguard action with the bat, as they held on for a losing draw, on a very wet and windy afternoon in Nuneaton. After several pitch inspections, play was finally got under way at 2.45 with the game reduced to 35 overs a side. Elford asked Amblesdie to bat first, and were soon rewarded by some sharp fielding and accurate bowling. Danny Haines took the first 3 wickets while Rob Collett took 2 - 90 off 17. Having pegged the homeside down to 70 - 2 of 15 overs, Ambleside did increase they're run rate and finished on a respectable 180 - 6. Elford then got of to a shocking start losing both openers inside 5 overs. However club leading run scorer, Rob Collett, soon settled in despite the wet conditions. He looked in good touch before being bowled, by a very low bouncing ball on 53. His dismissal sparked a collapse as Elford crashed from 64 - 2 to 85 - 8, before the tail was required to wag once again. The last 3 batsman defended the last 15 overs, losing only 1 more wicket to grab a losing draw in the driving rain.
Elford 2nds Vs Ansley Sports 2nds
Called off - Due to the rain.
26/28 August - weekend 16 - Bank Holiday
Ward End Unity 1sts Vs Elford 1sts
Losing Draw
Elford had to settle for a losing draw away at basement club Ward End, as the weather halted their run chase. The homeside batted first and piled on 312 7, as they made the most of the short boundaries despite several heavy rain showers making the outfield wet. Danny Haines 4 47 and Rob Collett 2 45 were the main wicket takers, while father & Son due, Ray and Simon Smith also bowled well. Elford proceeded to set about chasing the big total well, as Simon Smith and Danny Hackett looked well set. After the openers were caught out, it was left to the inform Collett brothers to steer Elford towards the total. Rob hit his forth Century of the season with 112 while Rich scored 43 in a partnership worth 142. However the rain came down once again, leaving Elford to chase the same first inning score but now in just 47 overs. With the momentum gone from the inning and several late wickets falling, Elford defended the final few overs, as the game petered out with no chance of a result.
Elford 2nds Vs Ward End Unity 2nds
Lost by 6 wkts
Elford 2nds miserable late season form continued, as they were soundly beaten at home by Ward End in the reverse fixture. Having started well, Elford collapsed from 70 1 to 110 ao. Ward End found few problems in chasing the total, despite a good bowling spell from Paul Baldwin who took 3 of 4 Ward End Wickets.
Elford 1sts VS Offchurch & Lapworth 1sts
Won by 3 wkts
The 1sts won their first game in 12 fixtures as they took 20 desperately needed points against third placed Offchurch. To the credit of both teams who helped get the pitch playable due to several heavy rain showers, Play was eventually reduced to 39 overs an innings. Offchurch won the toss and decided to bat first despite a sticky wicket. Elford deployed the spinning due of Ant Wright 1 91 and Rob Collett 4 76 throughout almost the entire innings as they made the visitors try and attack the bowling. Simon Smith polished off the tail with 2 8, after he had replaced Wright who split his finger open taking a catch off his own bowling. Having kept Offchurch to 180 9 off their 39 overs, Elford looked well poised to chase the total. Simon Smith dominated most of the innings with 78 while Rich Collett just missed on another half century as he hit 42. However, Elford faltered from 141 - 1 to 179 6 as it went to the final over with Elford needing 2 runs to win. After a late scrabble with the scores level, it was left to youngster Sam Griffiths who showed nerves of steel to hit a six to finish the game. Elford now must win 2 of their remaining 3 games to try and avoid relegation.
Stopress - Ward End were bowled out by Handsworth for 64 (to pick up 1 bowling point), while Griff & Coton got no points as they were skittled by Warwick. Sphinx got a losing draw at Four Oaks.
19/20 August - weekend 15
Elford 1sts VS Birmingham Civil Service 1sts
Losing Draw - CS 244 5 Elford 136 - 8
Despite the deluge of rain the night before, Elford just about managed to prepare a pitch for the visit of Civil Service. After a late start and interruption due to rain, Civil Services innings was reduced to 44 overs. Having asked the visitors to bat first on the damp pitch, the Civil Service decided to attack from the start. They notched up 244 5 in their innings despite some fortuitous batting displays and poor fielding. Ray Smith rolled back the years to take 3 62 off 11 . In reply Elford got off to a good start, till the now familiar top order collapse ensued. From 34 1, Elford tumbled to 65 7 in the space of just 9 overs. Once again it was left to the tail to salvage a losing draw as Rich Collett hit an unbeaten half-century, ably supported by Tony Allen and Sam Griffiths.
Birmingham Civil Service 2nds Vs Elford 2nds
Lost by 8 wkts - Elford 121 ao CS 122 - 2
The Seconds, Sponsored by Peels Coffee Shop of Tamworth, had an equally poor day as they crumbled to defeat in the reverse fixture. They could only muster 121 having been asked to bat first on a wet track. In reply the bowlers struggled to take the advantage as the Civil Service easily passed the small total, despite a vintage catch in the slips by Eric Dodd.
12/13 August - weekend 14
Coventry Sphinx 1sts Vs Elford 1sts
Lost by 6 wkts
Elford's season continued to go from bad to worse, as they succumbed to a 6 wicket defeat away at their closest relegation rivals, Coventry Sphinx. Having been asked to bat first, Elford got off to the worst possible start as they crashed to 25 5 off 10 overs. The plight was not helped by some dubious decisions as well as two stumping's that were given out, due to the confusion of double line markings on the pitch. It was left to Simon Smith 63 and Ant Wright 60* to pick up the pieces, as the pair carved out a total. Ray Smith 17 in his first game in 3 years helped the tail to wag, as Elford limped to 164, being bowled out in the final over. Elford's luck then deserted them in the field, as they were forced to field almost the entire innings with 10 men. Rob Wright suffered a cut and bruised face after collecting a ball in the face. With a limited bowling attack due to injuries, it was left to Ant Wright 2 45 and Rob Collett 2 39 to do much of the work. However the total was easily reached inside 30 overs leaving Elford staring at relegation.
Elford 2nds Vs Coventry Sphinx 2nds
Lost by 7 wkts
The Seconds plight also looks grim as they too find themselves in the midst of a relegation dogfight. In the reverse fixture they posted 149 with captain Gaz Starkey 39 and Paul Jones 32 the main contributors with the bat. Once again though, Elford lacked the cutting edge with the ball, and the modest total was easily reached with the loss of over only 3 wickets. Rob Drabble was the main threat with the ball as he returned 2 20.
5/6 August - weekend 13
Elford 1sts Vs Rugby 1sts
Losing Draw
Elford relegation worries continued as they claimed a losing draw at home to Rugby. Having asked the visitors to bat first, Rugby soon piled on the runs and chalked up 294 7 off 50 overs. Rob Collett 4 - 89 and Dillon Weller were the pick of the bowling attack. In reply Simon Smith looked in impressive form before being given out LBW on 64, while run machine Rob Collett posted 29. Rich Collett 46 and Ant Wright 18* steadied the innings late on after several quick wickets went down. With no chance of either side claiming a result the game soon fizzled out into a draw, leaving Elford on 216 6.
Stockton 2nds Vs Elford 2nds
Lost by 40 runs
The seconds lost by 40 runs despite bowling the opposition for 109. In a very low scoring game Elford travelled to Stockton, where they bowled out the home with Rob Drabble (6 wickets) and John Goldsworthy (4 wickets) cleaning up. Unfortunately, the Elford batsman didn't fair very well either, as they capitulated with only John Goldsworthy showing any staying power top scoring with 22, as Elford were dismissed for just 69.
Rushall Sun XI Vs Elford Sun XI
Won by 40 runs
Elford Sun XI returned to winning ways with a 40 run victory away at Rushall. Elford posted 231, thanks mainly to the top order batsman taking advantage of the short boundaries. Skipper Rob Wright was in fine form once again hitting another half century. The Leech Brothers also batted well as both looked to outscore each other, with younger brother Jack winning the battle with 41 while Sam hit 36. Tom Riley also looked set to make a big score before getting out on 32. In Reply Elford got off to a flyer as Haines took a wicket in the first over. Rushall rallied after that, despite Tony Allen bowling well, to claim 3 - 32 off 8. He was helped by a magnificent one handed catch on the boundary by Fergus Shaw, who still managed to hold onto the ball despite doing several gambols! Ant Wright (2 34) retuned to bowl at the end and quickly swept up the tail with the help of Jack Leech (2-39), leaving Rushall on 191 - 9 off 40 overs.
29/30 July - weekend 13
Handsworth 1sts Vs Elford 1sts
Lost by 95 runs
Elford lost by 95 runs to top of the table Handsworth, as they let a great start slip away. Having put the home side into bat, Elfords bowlers had them in trouble at 78 - 6, as Simon Smith 4 - 84 and Danny Haines 2 - 43 put on a good bowling display. However Handsworth's tail wagged and despite Ant Wright dismissing the danger man Ramsey, his century had already steered Handsworth to a competitive 225 - 8 off 50 overs. Elford never really got going in reply, and found life difficult on an ever-increasing difficult pitch, to bat on. Rob Collett top scored with 26 while Jimmy Edgar blasted 25 late on. In the end Elford were bowled out for 130, some 95 runs behind their hosts.
Elford 2nds Vs Handsworth 2nds
Lost by 8 wkts
The 2nds also lost, despite an impressive performance by the batsman. Eric Dodd top scored with 79, while Gaz Starkey 39, Paul Jones 20 and Malcolm Prince 19 all chipped in. Elford finished on 224 7, which soon looked to be not enough on a good batting track. Unfortunately, the Elford bowlers couldn't defend the total and Handsworth romped home, with 8 wickets to spare, despite a rare wicket from Malcolm Prince.
Stafford 1sts Vs Elford
Lost by 8 wkts
The Sunday "Ten" travelled to Stafford, were any remaining thoughts of promotion were quickly killed off as they were convincingly put to the sword. Batting first Elford posted a modest 150 ao as Stafford bowled tightly throughout, getting the best of the pitch. Malc MacDonald 35, Danny Haines 17 & Tom Riley 15 were the leading run contributors. Stafford's innings was considerably shorter than Elfords as they took just 21 overs to reach the target, with the loss of only 2 wickets. Tony Allen took both wickets collecting 2 31 off 5.
22/23 July - weekend 13
Four Oak Saints 1sts Vs Elford 1sts
Elford 150 8 - Four Oak Saints 108 9
Winning Draw
Elford finally broke their losing streak with a winning draw away at Four Oaks Saints, despite several heavy thundery downpours. A near strength 1st team put on their best display of the season, as they left the homeside hanging on for a draw. Batting first, Elford made a quick start thank mainly to Rich Collett's quick fire 43. Unfortunately Elford slumped to 79 - 4 off 21 overs, before the rain clouds came and play was reduced to 28 overs a side. Having regrouped, Elford set about the highest total they could manage in their remaining 7 overs. Simon Smith was in fine form hitting 52 in his first game back after injury while Paul Bozard also looked in good touch. Having set FOS 150 off 28 overs, Elford put on a spirited fielding display helped by tight bowling from Ant Wright (4 - 60) and Danny Haines (2 - 36). Four Oaks runrate slowly dried up, as Simon Smith turned over his arm taking 3 - 16, leaving FOS tittering, 9 wickets down. However the overs ran out and Elford claimed a much-needed winning draw.
Elford 2nds Vs Four Oak Saints 2nds
Elford 63 1 Four Oak Saints 0 - 0
Abandoned
The Seconds were also in a strong position before the rain came as they were left frustrated on 63 - 1 before play was abandoned due to thunder & rain.
Elford Sun XI Vs Essington & Gt Wyrley 1sts
Elford 173 ao Essington 171 - 5
Elford won by 2 runs
The Sunday Side with the luxury of 11 men, returned to winning ways with a very tight victory of Essington & Great Wyrley. Having batted first, Elford made a slow but steady start with openers Paul Baldwin 23 and Eric Doss 18. Youngsters Danny Hackett 37 and Ross Sedgley 35 carried on were the openers had left off and looked set. Unfortunately after the pair were given out, Elford collapsed from 138 3 to 173 all out in the space of 8 overs. In reply, the visitors had looked untroubled despite the odd wicket falling. However tight bowling and fielding meant that they were unable to increase the run rate significantly. Jack Leech 2 29 was the leading wicket taker, while older bother Samuel Leech also chipped in with a rare wicket. Like the first innings, Essington duly wobbled towards the end and were left only 2 runs short despite having 5 wickets left.
15/16 July - weekend 12
Elford 1sts Vs Rowland Utd 1sts
Lost by 10 wkts
Elford wilted in the summer sun as they were skittled for 98 on a lively track. Only Rich Collett (30) and Tony Allen (17) offered any resistance as they managed to put some runs on the board in the middle order. Unfortunately, after the pair were dismissed Elfords tail put up little resistance and were bowled out for 98. Rowland made short work of chasing the total easily passing it with 10 wickets to spare after 20
overs.
Rowland Utd 2nds Vs Elford 2nds
Lost by 5 wkts
Elford 2nds lost a tight game away at league leaders Rowland Utd 2nds. Despite posting a competitive total of 202 ao thanks mainly to Tim Whitehouse 60 and Dominic Hinds 45, the Elford bowlers could quite make the vital breakthroughs. Rob Drabble took 2 - 60 off 14 while Baldwin & Whitehouse both took wickets in support. However Rowland's middle order was too strong and managed to sneak home with 5 wickets and 7 balls to spare.
Elford Sun X Vs Cannock 1sts
Lost by 80 runs
Ten man Elford lost to a Cannock on Sunday as the visitors piled on 277 - 6, after being asked to bat first in the sun. A very ill looking Danny chunter Haines made the early inroads as he bowled both the opening batsman, including the South African overseas player who had earlier been dropped off his first ball! (Naming no names MR TONY ALLEN!) Thankfully he only managed to hit 44 mainly off the unfortunate Mr Baldwin. Cannock's middle order settled in though and made a long afternoon for the Elford fielders. Sam Leech returned to the side and once again made his presence known, helping Elfords PR cause. Elford did drag the innings back through Paul Baldwin, who picked up a late couple of wickets as Cannock posted 277 - 6 off 40 overs. In reply Elford got off to a terrible start as they found themselves 25 - 4 off 10 overs. However Danny Hackett 35 and the inform Rob Wright 42 helped Elford recover. It was left To Jack Leech (33*),Tony Allen (21) & Danny Haines then to steel a couple of points at the innings, as they finished on 197 - 8.
8/9 July - weekend 11
Elford 1sts Vs Warwick 1sts
Elford 241 7 Warwick 242 - 3
Lost by 7 wkts
Elford 1sts hosted top of the table Warwick CC, and for most of the game matched their opponents, but just lacked the cutting edge and a little luck. Elford had got off to bad start losing two batsman in quick succession, followed by the retirement of Simon Smith with a broken thumb. However the inform Collett brothers steadied the innings, and put on 137 for the 3rd wicket partnership. That allowed several cameo innings to be played, notably from Tony Allen 22* and Jimmy Edgar 21. Rob Collett was the star of the innings again though as he hit his third century of the season with 108. However, Elford 241 - 7 soon looked a small target as Warwick's batsman scored far to quickly. Only Ant Wright and Danny Haines managed to find the stumps as Warwick cruised home by 7 wickets and 8 overs to spare.
Warwick 2nds Vs Elford 2nds
Elford 44 ao Warwick 45 - 2
Lost by 8 wkts
The Seconds had a very quick outing to Warwick on Saturday as they were bowled out for just 44 on a very bowler friendly pitch. Last Man Rob Drabble was the only player to get into double figures with 12 (3 shots) as his team mates collapsed before him. Elford did manage to pick up 2 wickets thanks to Jack Leech 2 - 17 off 6, as the home side passed the target with ease.
Elford Sun XI Vs Boundary 1sts
Boundary 259 ao Elford 225 ao
Lost by 34 runs
The Sunday side also playing top of the league lost by 34 runs to Boundary Sports on a windy afternoon. Boundary batted first and scored quickly despite wickets going down at regular intervals. Ant Wright, Tony Allen and Jack Leech all picked up wickets, but it was too the very slow left arm of Eric Dodd, to cause the batsman difficult decisions. Not knowing weather to risk hitting him for six or get caught on the boundary trying, Dodd managed to claim another couple of victims! Boundary were eventually bowled out for 259. In reply Tim Whitehouse 26 and Eric Dodd 25 got Elford off to solid start, before Danny Hackett (25) and Captain Rob Wright (47) took control of the innings. Unfortunately after these two batsmen were dismissed, the runs were harder to come by, although the tail wagged and where in the end only 34 runs short, being bowled out for 225.
1/2 July - weekend 10
Griff & Coton 1sts Vs Elford 1sts
G & C 183 ao Elford 113 ao
Lost by 70 runs
A depleted Elford 1st XI showed plenty of spirit in the field, but lacked any conviction with the bat as they fell to a 70 run defeat. Having done the hard work by winning the toss and bowling out the homeside, Elfords batsman couldn't capitalise. Elford got off to great start when Danny Haines trapped the opener LBW on a low bouncing track. The introduction of Ant Wright (2 46) and Rob Collett (3 23) to the attack had Griff & Coton reeling on 81 - 6 as the pair tore through the middle order. However Griffs tail wagged and the last 4 batsman added 102 runs, before Simon Smith and youngster Jack Leech (2- 15) finished off the innings. Elford never really got going, as they lost wickets over couple of overs. Only Ant Wright managed to frustrate the Griff bowlers before he was bowled with a low bouncing ball on 19. Elford were finally bowled on for 113.
Elford 2nds Vs Griff & Coton 2nds
G & C 136 8 Elford 123 7
Losing Draw
Elford 2nds claimed a losing draw as they fell 13 runs short of Griff & Cotons 136 - 8. Rob Drabble was the leading wicket as he claimed 4 - 59 while John Goldsworthy supported him with 3 - 35. In reply Eric Dodd continued his good form with 31, while the return of Malcolm "stonewall" Prince 27 helped guide Elford within touching distance of the visitors total. Unfortunately Elford ran out of overs some 13 runs short, settling with a losing Draw.
St Matthews Vs Elford
St Matthews 85 ao Elford 89 5
Won by 5 wkts
Despite only travelling with 10 players, of which some of those were late, Elford stunned the opposition by winning the toss and electing to the field in the sunshine. However it proved to be an inspired decision as Elfords bowled destroyed their hosts, as St Matthews were skittled for just 85. Ant Wright and Steve Mercer picked up 3 wickets a piece while, Tony Allen and Jack Leech polished off the tail with 2 wickets each. Despite a late wobble as Elford lost Rob Wright 32 and Tim Whitehouse 30, Elford never looked any danger of reaching the target, coasting home by 5 wickets.
24/25 June - weekend 9
Elford 1sts Vs Ambleside 1sts
Elford 313 4 - Ambleside 314 - 6
Elford slipped to defeat against Nuneaton side Ambleside as they failed to defend 313. On a good bating track with a very quick outfield both sides batsman took full advantage of the conditions. Despite missing several regular players, Elford's top order fired on all cylinders as they scored runs with relative ease. Simon Smith scored his first century of the season with 102, while Rob Collett was equally good touch hitting 86, taking him to over 400 runs this season. Brother Rich Collett also played well, making good use of a well spread out field. He was finally run out on 42 on the last ball of the innings. Elford then got off to the best possible start with the ball as Ed Collett and Danny Haines took early wickets as Ambleside slumped to 4 2. However Ambleside middle order rallied and despite some close decisions steered the visitors from 78 3 to 290- 4 as the outfield got quicker and quicker in the sun. Ant Wright and Danny Haines produced a couple of late breakthroughs at the end as Ambleside wobbled at 313 6, but the visitors just squeezed home with an over to spare.
Ansley Sports 2nds Vs Elford 2nds
Ansley 217 7 Elford 122 ao
The seconds recent good form came to an abrupt end when they crashed out away at Ansley. Having restricted the home side to 217 7 thanks to Gaz Starkey 3 52 off 10 and Rob Drabble 3 - 94, who still proved he could bowl 25 overs, despite looking like a tin man at the end of the game! However Elford lacked depth to the batting line up and despite notable knocks from Tom Whitehouse and Paul Baldwin 23, were bowled out for 122. On a positive note Gav Breaman fielded and batted well on his Elford debut.
Elford Sun XI Vs Guildfordians Sun XI
Elford 168 5 Guildfordians 169 - 5
Elford Sun XI lost a close but friendly spirited game against 3 rd placed Guildfordians. Elford had posted 168 5 off 25 overs thanks to Ant Wright who hit his second half century of the season and Danny Hackett who managed to hit 38 for the forth time this year! Unfortunately for Elford though they could only muster 9 players to field as Guildfordians managed to pick holes in the field with relative ease. Steve Mercer was the leading wicket taker with 2 28 off 5, as the away side coasted home with 9 balls to spare, leaving Elford to ponder what might have been if they had 11 players.
10/11 June - weekend 7
Elford 1sts Vs Ward End Unity 1sts
Elford 308 5 - Ward End 182 ao
Elford 1sts finally notched up their first win of the season with an emphatic 126 run win over Ward End Unity. Neither side had won a match before going into this game, as both clubs looked for a victory to take them out of the relegation zone. Elford won the toss and had no hesitation in batting first. Simon Smith 47 and Danny Hackett 19 made a solid opening stand before both were dismissed in quick succession. The in form Rob Collett was next to the crease, along side his brother Rich, the pair put on 81 as Elford increased the total. Following Rich's dismissal on 30, the middle order wobbled but was steadied by Ant Wright and Rob Collett. The due put on 124, steering Elford to 308 5. Rob finished unbeaten on 130 (21 fours 1 six), while Ant Wright squeezed two off the last ball (being dropped in the process), to make an unbeaten 50. In reply Ward End Unity were skittled by Danny Haines who claimed his best figures of the season with 6 54. He was supported by Rob Collett who finished with a well earned 2 36.
Ward End Unity 2nds Vs Elford 2nds
Ward End 89ao - Elford 88 - 8
Despite getting lost, losing the toss due to being late and only travelling with 10 players Elford 2nds still managed to just win the game. Ward End claimed the toss and elected to bat in the sun. However an inspired bowling performance by Paul Baldwin 6 32 and Gaz Starkey 8 - 3 reduced Ward End to 89 all out in under 25 overs. However the batsman made hard work of it as they to found the pitch a handful. Eric Dodd top scored with 22 while it was left to Baldwin & Duckers to steer the 2nds home. In the end Elford just squeezed home by 1 wicket to pick up back to back victories.
Elford vs Stafford 1sts
Stafford 270 8 - Elford 117 ao
Elford Sun XI were comfortably beaten by an impressive performance by Stafford. Nursing several injured players, Elford soon found themselves in trouble when they lost the toss. Stafford as expected batted first in the sun and made good use of a strong batting lining up as they carved out 270 7 of 40 overs in the summer sun. Ant Wright 3 56 and Tony Allen 1 25 were the pick of the bowlers. Despite a steady start from the Father and Son due of Geoff (20) and Danny Hackett (39), Elford collapsed in spectacular style form 100- 3 to 117 all out, as any chance of victory evaporated. Only Skipper Rob Wright put up any resistance hitting 24 late on.
3/4 June - weekend 6
Birmingham Civil Service 1sts Vs Elford 1sts
The 1sts miserable start to their Warwickshire League campaign continued as they wiltered in the summer sun away at Civil Service. Despite losing the toss and fielding first, Elford showed plenty of spirit in the field and managed to bowl out the home side for 250 in under 50 overs. Ed Collett also took a wicked with his first ball for the 1 st team, thanks to a great one handed catch by Ant Wright. Rob Collett was the pick of the bowling with 2 60 off 16, while Ant Wright and Danny Haines picked up 2 wickets a piece late on. There were also two great run outs from Simon Smith and Danny Hackett. Unfortunately that was as far as the good news went, as Elford once again struggled with the bat. Only Danny Hackett showed any fight as he top scored with 38. At 112 9 it was left to Danny Haines and Ed Collett to try and bat out 15 overs to grab a draw, but Ed Collett was eventually trapped LBW with 2 overs to go.
Elford 2nds Vs Birmingham Civil Service 2nds
The 2 nd XI however turned in their performance of the season to beat the Civil Service 2nds by 126 runs. They won the toss and elected to bat first in the summer sun. Malcolm MacDonald hit a well-earned 95 while Eric Dodd chipped in with 37 later in the innings. However there were notable knocks from all the batsman as Elford piled on 290 in their 50 overs. Elford then proceeded to knock over the Civil Service for 164 as Rob Drabble starred with the ball. He took 5 34 while Paul Baldwin and John Goldsworthy also bowled well picking up 2 wickets a piece.
Essington & Gt Wyrley 1sts Vs Elford Sun XI
The Sunday side snatched victory from the jaws of defeat as they produced the great escape with the ball. Batting first on a lively track and slow outfield, Geoff Hackett and Malcolm MacDonald steered Elford towards a solid start before both were dismissed in quick succession. From 48 1, Elford proceeded to produce an awesome batting collapse as they struggled to 98 all out. Elford decided to attack from the start, in order to defend the small total and were rewarded by a fine opening bowling spell, backed up by tight fielding. Ant Wright was in inspired form with the ball, taking match winning figures of 5 13 off 8 while Danny Haines supported him with 2 19 off 8. The pair reduced the home team to 37 7 of 16, bowling all but one of the batsman. Essington's tail wagged towards the end but captain Rob Wright and youngster Jack Leech saw off any comeback bowling the final batsman out with 69 on the board, leaving Elford with 9 points and a 29 run victory.
29th May Bank Holiday - weekend 5
Elford Vs Coventry Sphinx
Elford lost by 7 wkts
Elford poor start to the Warwickshire League continued as they were beaten at home by bottom of the league Sphinx. Having set 185 off a rain reduced 41 overs, Sphinx were comfortable victors with 6 wickets in hand and 4 overs to spare. The Collett Brothers were the star performers with the Bat as opener Rob hit 57 while Rich came in and blazed a quick 61 including 5 sixes. Unfortunately Elfords tail didn't wag this week and they were bowled out for 185, despite a blast from Malcolm MacDonald (14) at the end. However, Elfords total was proved to be short, as the drying pitch allowed the visiting batsman to play their shots. Ant Wright, Paul Baldwin and Dillon Weller were the only wicket takers as Sphinx coasted home.
Coventry Sphinx 2nds Vs Elford 2nds
Elford lost by 9 wkts
The Seconds are also finding life hard in the Warwickshire League as they were once again bowled out for under 50! Only Captain and Opener Gaz Starkey put up any resistance hitting 16 before being bowled out for the final wicket. The innings included 4 Ducks as Elford were dismissed for a poultry 46. The Target was easily passed by the home team who eased home by 9 wickets. Starkey was the only wicket taker.
20th / 21st May - weekend 3
Elford 1sts Vs Handsworth 1sts
Elford managed to beat the rain but only just avoided defeat to Handsworth. Having asked the visitors to bat first, Elford looked to take early wickets with the ball seeming around. Unfortunately the match ball was lost after 5 overs, and the bowlers had to continue with an ever-increasing wet ball. Handsworth proceeded to take control as the opening batsman accelerated the score onto 175 - 0. However the introduction on spin and tight fielding helped peg Handsworth down to 244 - 7 as Elford took 7 wickets for 69 runs in the final 15 overs. Ant Wright was the leading wicket taker with 3 36 off 9 while Simon Smith took 2 89 off 18. After a downpour over Tea, Elford got their run chase started, but unfortunately no batsman ever really got going, despite some solid starts from several players. Openers Dean (25) & Simon Smith (20) looked in impressive form before being dismissed. Likewise Rich Collett (25) and Dave Emery (23) also looked to be steering Elford towards the target before getting out. It was left to a last a last wicket stand to save the game for Elford as Danny Haines and Paul Baldwin batted for 11 overs without troubling the scorer, to leave Elford finishing on 144 - 9.
Handsworth 2nds Vs Elford 2nds
A depleted Second XI didn't fare so well in the return fixture. Having travelled to Handsworth without the usual skipper and with only 10 players the 2nd XI were bowled out for just 41. The South African partnership of Malcolm Macdonald (22) and Kirk Perroti (7) managed to score 29 of the total runs, in an innings that included 5 ducks! Elford's did manage to take 2 wickets thanks to Ed Collett, but Handsworth coasted home by 8 wickets.
Elford Vs Cannock 1sts
On a brighter note the Sunday Side picked up all 12 points despite the rain as Cannock couldn't raise a side.
13th / 14th May - weekend 2
Elford 1sts Vs Four Oaks Saints 1sts CC
Elford lost to top of the table Four Oak Saints in a close finish in very gloomy conditions. Having being put into bat first on a damp pitch due to pre match downpour, Elford found life hard against the new ball. However despite three early wickets going down, the middle order rallied and steered Elford from 38 3 to 229 5. Rob Collett was in top form scoring the first club century of the season with 101. He was ably supported by James Edgar who battled for 25 overs to scoring a very patient 47 before being run out. Dillon Weller chipped with a trademark innings blasting 33 off 19 balls to push Elford onto 244 7 of 49 overs.
In reply Elford bowled with conviction but without much luck as Four Oaks kept up with the runrate. In increasing difficult conditions for both sides due to the bad light and wet pitch, the game was delicately poised. However FOS sneaked home with 3 overs to go and 4 wickets remaining to take the points. Paul Baldwin and Danny Haines took 2 wickets piece
Four Oaks Saints 2nds Vs Elford 2nds CC
The seconds had to settle for a draw as the bad weather ended the game prematurely. Elford had bowled out Four Oaks for 150, (despite dropping 6 catches), with new captain Gaz Starkey picking up 4 30, supported by Tim Whitehouse 2 22 and Tony Allen 2 42. Elford had got off to a good start as but were unfortunately left delicately poised on 90 3, (John Ross 30*) with 12 overs remaining when the rain finished the game.
Elford Vs Boundary KonKi
Elford lost in another close finish this time against Birmingham outfit, Boundary KonKi. With a makeshift side, Elford took to the field in more hope than expectancy, but soon began to grow in confidence. Stand in player James Harris took caught the Boundary Pro, much to his delight while the slow spin of Geoff Hackett caused the batsman all sorts of difficulties. Elford managed to restrict Boundary to 194 8 off 40 overs. Danny Haines 2 37, Rob Wight 1 19 and Tony Allen also 1 19 returned the best figures. In reply, Elford got off to a steady start thanks mainly to Geoff Hackett 24 and Dave Emery 56. Unfortunately Elford began to run of batsman and despite a late run chase they were finally bowled out 26 runs short.
6th May 2006 - Rowland Utd 1sts Vs Elford 1sts
Elford lost by 6 wkts
Elfords debut in the Warwickshire league ended in defeat after the weather interrupted much of the game. Having been put into bat first, Elford were 6 1 off 6 overs before the heavens opened, resulting in the game being reduced to 35 overs a piece. Unfortunately for Elford this meant they had to pile on as many runs as they could in the remaining 29 overs after the restart. Rich Collett looked in good form hitting 64, ably supported by opener Dean Smith who hit 25 before being trapped LBW. A quick succession of wickets fell shortly afterwards before, Elford finally finished on 140 8 off their 35 overs. In reply, Ant Wright 3 53 off 15 and Rob Collett 1 27 off 9 were the pick of the Elford bowlers as they pegged Rowland down to 45 2 off 18 overs. Unfortunately for Elford, Rowland made good use of the reduced overs and the short boundary to chase the target down within 33 overs, with the loss of just 4 wickets.
