Rochdale progress to second round of Wood Cup at Middleton's expense

Rochdale progressed into the second round of the J.W. Lees Wood Cup with a comfortable 76 run victory over a young Middleton team at Redbrook on Sunday.

Despite an energetic performance in the field, and an excellent effort from George Walker whose 5 for 21 included a hat trick, the visitors were unable to prevent Rochdale from dominating the first half of the game.

All of Rochdale’s top five batsmen made significant contributions, particularly professional Wes Landsdale, who passed 600 runs for the season during his innings of 69 as his team posted 220 for 7 from their 50 overs.

In fact, an even higher total had seemed likely before Walker clipped Dale’ wings somewhat towards the end of their innings.

When Middleton replied, they were soon 16 for 3, including the wicket of Towncroft professional Ernest Kemp, trapped lbw to Mo Bux, and they were unable to mount a threatening challenge thereafter despite some stubborn resistance for Rhys Tierney who constructed a patient half century.

Rochdale will now play Heyside in the second round, at Redbrook, on Sunday 5 July.

Scores:

Rochdale 220 for 7 (Landsdale 69, J. Avery 39, M. Bend 38. G. walker 5/21)

Middleton 144 all out (R Tierney 51, T Avery 3/32, M.R. Harling 3/25)