Tail wags to see Middleton home

Middleton Cricket Club

Middleton took five points on Saturday against Werneth as they claimed their fifth victory in as many games.

Werneth won the toss and elected to bat first on a bright dry afternoon. Despite losing the toss Middleton started well and opener Gareth Hughes had a chance which frustratingly went through the slips in the first few overs. However Hughes provided the breakthrough bowling opener Walker for 11. Soon after wards Buckley claimed the wicket of Entwistle reducing the host to a modest 36 for 2.

With a change of bowling as Kemm replaced Buckley, bowling first seemed to help the Monnrakers as the inconsistent bounce made it hard to bat on. After getting to 106 for 5 Kemm recorded his first hat rick as he reduced Werneth to 106 for 7. After some runs from the tail, Werneth were bowled out for 145 in the 48th over.

As Middleton began their batting innings, Tahir lead from the front and batted time despite wickets falling around him. Kemm batted well as he made 36, but with no other real contributions in the top order, it was imperative that Tahir occupied the crease which he did.

Eventually Tahir was caught as he attempted to clear the infield which left Middleton in a dangerous position of 108 for 8. It was now down to the senior pair in the team- Buckley and Hughes. Straight away Buckley began to play positive shots however, Hughes was run out for 4 which left the score on 111 for 9, with Werneth in sight of victory.

As Pritchard came to the crease he backed up Buckley who continued to play his attacking game and the last wicket pair put on 35 runs and steered Middleton to a memorable victory which ensured they stay in second position of the championship.