Match Reports 2009

2009 Match Reports

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 5^th September 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

St Crispin & Ryelands CC 1^st XI vs. Bowden CC 1^st XI

Bowden travelled to St Crispin and Ryelands CC for a crucial match for the villager’s survival in division three. Bowden once again lost the toss and the home side had no hesitation in asking Bowden to bat first. Bowden lost opener Gary Waterfield for 0 in the second over which brought Mick Brammer to the crease. Brammer has a good record at St Crispin and last year registered a masterful 113 not out. Once again he looked in good nick. The pitch played slowly and both Brammer and Jack Ferguson played watchfully, accumulating steadily and putting on 55 for the second wicket. Ferguson was the man to go first for a good 31 and this brought Chris Knowles to the crease. Knowles who has had a solid few weeks looked in good nick early on with a succession of crunching blows against the medium pace bowlers. Brammer also was looking in good touch, cutting and flicking the ball around the ground.

Knowles was the first to register his 50, in double quick time before he eventually fell for 57 with the score on 162 for 3. Bowden looked well placed for a big score. Rob Gomez couldn’t get started, falling for 6, and with Brammer scoring fluently at the other end Tony Roberts came to the crease. Bowden were 175 for 4 in the 45th over however Roberts and Brammer quickly clubbed Bowden’s score to 231 for 4 from their 50 overs, Roberts finished with 36 not out and Brammer played faultlessly for 93 not out. .

Bowden restricted Crispin’s openers early on and the first wicket fell with the score on 52 in the 17^th over when Mick Brammer, following up on his batting heroics, removing Martin Quenby for 28. This was then quickly followed by Rob Gomez (3 for 70) removing Mark Oliver for 27. Bowden looked to be further on top and when Crispin’s lost their third wicket at 79. However Crispin’s middle order rallied with Mark Richardson scoring quickly along with Bob Twigg at the other end. Bowden’s bowling attack, which has displayed excellent control all season, took some punishment as the required run rate dropped to a manageable 7 per over as Crispin’s chased down their target efficiently. With 10 balls to spare the home side passed their target and claimed victory by 6 wickets.

Bowden now lie third from bottom, 19 points clear of Kempston, however they need to take some points from the next two fixtures against runaway leaders Oundle and second placed Irchester this coming week.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 5^th September 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2^nd XI vs. County Hall CC 1^st XI

Bowden’s second eleven ultimately failed in their attempt to avoid relegation as they crashed to a 49 run defeat to high flying County Hall at Bowden Rec on Saturday. Despite some good all round performances the team failed to secure sufficient batting and bowling bonus points during the season as a whole to avoid the drop and start next season in Division 9.

Saturday’s match was a must win encounter for both sides and meant that the contest was played aggressively by the teams. Bowden won the toss and invited County Hall to bat first. Eddie Ingram (2 for 20) struck first with the score on just six and followed this success shortly afterwards by removing the visitor’s number three, clean bowled and leaving County Hall in trouble at 24 for 2. Bowden’s other opening bowler, Gary Freestone (0 for 27) again bowled well without any luck as he has done all season. There then followed a period of innings re-building against some particularly tight swing bowling from Kevin Woodhead. County Hall progressed slowly into the eighties before Ali Williams (1 for 19) bowled Paul Evans for 17. This signalled the start of a batting collapse as the visitor’s subsided to 117 for 7 as Woodhead (3 for 52) and Malcolm Walker (2 for 37) swept way the middle order. Bowden were well on top and looked likely to chase a small score but the eight wicket pair then played cautiously and added 27 before the ninth wicket added an undefeated 24 to take County Hall up to a challenging 170 in their 45 overs.

A good start was needed by the home side but the loss of Steve Oldfield (2) in the third over and Danny Varnsverry (10) in the sixth over left the home side struggling at 18 for 2 and a long way from victory. Bowden’s skipper, Simon Linsell and the swashbuckling Guy Other then set about constructing 53 run partnership as the pair mastered the bowling and set Bowden on their way. The pair seemed to have turned the game around as they kept ahead of the run rate and the visitor’s heads dropped.

As has happened so often this season, just when Bowden had started to boss the game, calamity strikes and this game was no exception. Linsell (16) received a good ball and was bowled and Other (39) followed quickly, adjudged LBW. 77 for 4 quickly became 77 for 5 as Sam Gomez (0) was bowled first ball and the target started to slip out of reach. Hard hitting Kevin Woodhead (14) tried to wrestle the initiative back for the home side but when he was caught behind it became a procession. Ed Ingram (7) and Lee Munton (0) were unable to establish an innings and despite a late flurry from Ali Williams (7 not out) and Malcolm Walker (13), Bowden were dismissed in the fortieth over for 121 and a long way short of victory.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Sunday 30^th August 2009

Friendly Match

Bowden CC XI vs Davenset CC XI

Bowden entertained Leicester side Davenset on Sunday in a friendly fixture. Bowden fielded a young side and batted first. Sam Gomez and veteran Andy Marshall put on 61 for the first wicket before Gomez perished for 34. Andy Marshall batted well for 22 however it was only Alexa Passingham (14) and Mark Kenny (12) of the remaining batters who made double figures with the villagers bowled out for 110

Bowden’s youngsters looked to continue their good Sunday season form and even with the low total were confident of victory. Eddie Ingram opened with Alexa Passingham and it’s safe to say that all bowlers on the day struggled with the wet cricket ball.

Passingham removed Davenset’s opener and finished with 1 for 22 from her five overs. Lee Munton then bowled with good accuracy to take two wickets as did Sam Gomez to halt the Leicester sides march to the victory target. Ali Williams (1 for 24), Matt Williams (0 for 8) and Ali Gordon (1 for 18) all bowled well. However with Davenset’s Raju scoring a quick 42 the damage was already done. A late flurry of wickets left the youngsters with a sniff of victory however the last man guided them home with both teams having played through five overs of genuine rain.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 29^th August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Bowden CC 1^st XI vs Horton House CC 2^nd XI

Following last weeks disappointing result for Bowden’s 1^st XI it was key that the villagers got a win against fellow strugglers Horton House in order to lift themselves out of the relegation zone.
Bowden got back to usual ways and having lost the toss were asked to bat first. Openers Jack Ferguson and Gary Waterfield started solidly and Ferguson in particular was looking in good touch. However a change in bowling brought immediate results as Horton removed Ferguson for 16. Ben Wade then followed bowled for 0 along with Waterfield (23). When Rob Gomez (0) also failed to trouble the scorers, Bowden had slipped from 40 for 0 to 46 for 4.

Tony Roberts and Chris Knowles then looked to steady the ship with Roberts striking a few quick runs. However when he fell for 14 there quickly followed a needless run out of Captain Mark Kenny (4) and Bowden were in deep trouble at 84 for 6 in the 43^rd over. Bowden could never really get going again and credit must go to Horton's David Brown who bowled with great control taking 3 for 33 from his 15 overs. Bowden eventually closed on 114 for 9 from their 50 overs.

Bowden looked to the blueprint of last week’s match close match and crowded the bat with five close catchers in Steve Bellamy’s the first over. They also opened the bowling with spinner Sam Freer at the other end and following three maidens Freer got the breakthrough with a delightful caught and bowled. Bellamy then got in on the act as Chris Knowles took a sharp catch at backward silly square leg. This brought Horton’s dangerous batsmen Paul Ruff to the crease. He immediately set about making light of the target taking 12 runs off the remaining five balls of the over. Ruff continued to dominate in the next over sending Freer into the playground and a further seven from Bellamy's next over. However a moment of magic in the final ball of the over accounted for Ruff for 27. Ruff played the ball behind square to be called through for a quick single by his batting partner; Jack Ferguson swooped and quickly fired down the stumps at the bowler’s end with a direct hit.

Sam Freer then removed Friendship-Taylor for 0 in the 10th over to leave Horton at 38 for 4 and the game in the balance. Bellamy bowled with great hostility and control and took the next wicket to fall in the 16th over and Horton were 47 for 5. Horton’s bowling hero David Brown came to the crease and looked in good touch. This looked to be a dangerous period for Bowden as he looked untroubled by the spin of Freer or pace of Bellamy, working both bowlers either side of the wicket for a well crafted 20. However the introduction of Rob Gomez removed Horton’s number 3 for a patient 21. A few overs later Freer replaced Bellamy at the railway end and removed Brown first ball of his new spell and Horton were wobbling at 85 for 7.

Horton rallied and the eighth wicket didn’t fall until the score was on 110 and again it was Ferguson who created the magic running out Knibbs from the boundary as he attempted a second run. Bowden then re-introduced Bellamy. Horton negotiated his first over with three coming from it leaving the score on 112 for 8. Gomez then bowled a maiden at the other end leaving Bellamy to be either the hero or the villain of the day. Bellamy sent down the first four deliveries without inducing a wicket The fifth ball of the over started six inches outside off stump only for it to jag back and remove the middle stump leaving Horton on 113 for 9 and needing two to win the match. Bellamy composed himself before bowling to Horton's number 11 with the final ball in his over. That was enough as he bowled a perfect delivery which caught the edge of Patel’s bat and was caught at first slip by Gomez to bring Bowden an unlikely one run victory. Freer finished with 3 for 45 from 13 overs, Bellamy 4 for 43 from 15 overs and Gomez 1 for 9 from his 4 overs.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 29^th August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Wellingborough Old Grammarians CC 2^nd XI vs Bowden CC 2^nd XI

A magnificent all-round display from Bowden’s 2^nd XI ensured that they left Wellingborough OG’s with a maximum 30 points following a 56 run defeat of their hosts. The result leaves Bowden going into next week’s final match of the season with every chance of avoiding relegation in what has been an extremely tight league this year.

Bowden’s skipper, Simon Linsell, won the toss and elected to bat first on an excellent looking surface and the village side got away to a good start. Steve Oldfield (22) and Fergus Kenny (17) scored at a healthy rate in the initial 10 overs before the introduction of off-spinner Gavin Goodchild (2 for 27) who applied the brakes. Bowden’s openers fell in quick succession and the loss of Chris Rose, second ball for a duck, left Bowden in some trouble at 55 for 3.

It required patience and application to reconstruct the innings and post a challenging score and this was duly delivered by the captain, Simon Linsell (65 not out) and Danny Varnsverry (80 not out). The pair began cautiously, accumulating singles and punishing the bad balls without taking risks. Once they had both settled they became more expansive and the scoring accelerated as the pair added an undefeated 148 run partnership for the fourth wicket. Such was the pace and authority with which the pair milked the bowling it enabled Bowden to rattle past the magic 200 runs, achieve maximum batting points, and make a declaration in the forty second over. This enabled Bowden to add their three unused batting overs to their own bowling allocation, a decision which proved highly significant in the end.

Bowden’s new ball bowling pair, Eddie Ingram and Gary Freestone, began well, consistently getting bounce and movement but the Wellingborough openers rode their luck as they cut and edged their way to a 40 run opening stand before Ingram made the breakthrough in the tenth over, bowling Michael Ball (17) and breaking a bail in the process. This signalled the start of a mini collapse as Ingram claimed a further two wickets, clean bowled. Ben Moss (2 for 26) was hostile and too quick for the home side’s batters and Ali Williams (1 for 19) claimed the prize wicket of OG’s captain, Tom Pursglove (5). At 121 for 6 the run chase was over but could Bowden claim the last four wickets for victory with the overs running out?

Leg spinner, Sam Gomez (0 for 14) tossed the ball up in an attempt to invite the batters into a false shot but they were dogged in their determination to hang on. An inspired bowling change proved decisive. The introduction of Kevin Woodhead proved to be trump card. Woodhead found considerable in-swing in the overcast conditions and the batters were unable to cope with the movement. In an incredible five over spell, Woodhead claimed four wickets for five runs as Bowden ran out victors in the forty sixth over.

A similar display next week and Bowden might break out the champagne!

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 22^nd August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Towcestrians CC 1^st XI vs Bowden CC 1^st XI

Bowden capitulated to a shocking defeat at the weekend which now leaves the side in the relegation zone following results around them going against the favour of the villagers.

Bowden won the toss and had no hesitation is asking Towcestrians to bat on what looked to be an excellent batting surface with the main aim to keep runs to a minimum and turn around the recent run of bad results.

Bowden got off to a dream start with opening bowlers Steve Bellamy and Ed Ingram restricting the visitors early on. Bellamy bowled fantastically taking the first three wickets to fall and when Ed Ingram removed Towcester's obdurate opener the home since were 36 for 4. Bellamy continued to probe, removing the next two batters to leave the home side 69 for 6. Rob Gomez was then introduced into the attack and Bowden really turned the screw, bowling out the home side for 107 with Bellamy taking five wickets for 49 from 13 overs and Gomez claiming four wickets for 13 from 11.3 overs.

What followed was typical of Bowden’s batting this season. Bowden regularly lost wickets in the run chase and it was only Tony Roberts (25) and Chris Knowles (17) who showed any resistance with Bowden bowled out for 104, handing victory to Towcestrians by three runs with Jack Parish taking 4 for 35 for the home side.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 22^nd August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2^nd XI vs Kislingbury CC 1^st XI

Only victories in their two remaining league fixtures and some helpful results elsewhere will give Bowden’s 2^nd XI any chance of avoiding relegation this season despite a hard fought draw against high-flying Kislingbury on Saturday.

The visitors were invited to bat first on a hard dry pitch and it was important that Bowden started well. An early breakthrough was achieved when Ben Moss (1 for 20) beat James Robinson for sheer pace and dismissed the opener with the score on 14. Gary Freestone (1 for 18) bowled with his usual excellent control and claimed the second wicket of the innings with the score on 42, the result of a superlative one-handed diving catch by veteran Malcolm Walker at first slip and Bowden were well in the game. Alistair Williams again proved how much he has improved this year and thrives on the responsibility of coming on first change. The youngster moved the ball both ways and despite not claiming a wicket, restricted the run rate. Bryn Morris (0 for 67) toiled away at the other end but it was the introduction of Walker, who could seemingly do no wrong, who made vital in-roads into the Kislingbury batting line-up. He claimed 4 wickets for just 42 runs from his 10 overs with his flighted off spinners, two clean bowled and two stumpings for wicket keeper Chris Rose. By the close of the innings Kislingbury had advanced to 214 for the loss of 7 wickets and Bowden had a chance.

After the tea interval, Bowden’s openers, Steve Oldfield (16) and Fergus Kenny (22) set about laying the foundations of the reply. Scoring was not easy against a disciplined opening bowling partnership and the run rate suffered as a result. The loss of Oldfield with the score on 31 wasn’t helped when new batsmen Chris Rose (0) was trapped LBW to the third ball he received. Ben Moss (16) joined Fergus and gave the villagers hope with some lusty blows but was well caught when trying to accelerate the scoring. Sam Gomez (2) didn’t last long and his wicket was soon followed by that of Kenny. This left skipper Simon Linsell (22) to try and marshal the lower middle order.

With the exception of a big six into the sightscreen the skipper batted with caution and consumed the overs in an attempt to secure as many points from the game as possible once the victory target was out of reach. Bryn Morris (5) batted sensibly and ably supported his skipper before falling LBW to a ball that kept low. Sam Keenan (0) departed first ball but Ali Williams (0) despite not scoring, survived for 5 overs. Malcolm Walker (9 not out) patiently prodded the bowling back down the pitch but when the skipper departed, feathering the ball to the keeper, with just 2 overs to go the match looked lost. Last man Gary Freestone joined Walker at the crease. Not usually known for his batting prowess, Freestone proved an obdurate obstacle. Despite being surrounded by close fielders the last wicket pair gratefully survived and the innings closed on 118 for 9 and the home side had secured two valuable additional points for the draw.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 15^th August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Bowden CC 1^st XI vs Wollaston CC 2^nd XI

Bowden CC endured another close defeat in what is now becoming a hard season with the villagers now only 20 points above the drop zone.

Skipper Mark Kenny can’t remember the last time he won a toss and once again his side was asked to bat first on what looked to be a good track. Bowden had unfortunately been subject to some vandalism midweek which had meant that the heavy roller was out of commission for most of the week. The effects were evident from the first over with the ball keeping low on what is normally an excellent surface at the Rec.

Bowden’s openers got off to a solid start and Mick Brammer in particular was looking in excellent touch. Gary Waterfield looked solid whilst Brammer was despatching the ball around the ground as the pair put on 60 for the first wicket with Brammer the first to fall for 39. Jack Ferguson was the next man in but didn’t last long, departing when caught in the deep. He was replaced by Chris Knowles who played a loose shot and was clean bowled for just 2. Mark Kenny quickly followed for 8, bowled of bat and pad, and Bowden were toiling at 75 for 4. It was then left to Rob Gomez and Waterfield to restore some momentum in the scoring and they both did that with Gomez batting with responsibility that the middle order had lacked. Waterfield was eventually dismissed for 32 and Ben Wade (14) added valuable runs along with Ben Moss (11) to take the score to 153 all out in the 50th over. Pick of the Wollaston attack was Adrian Ward who finished with 5 for 36 including a hat-trick to finish off the innings.

Wollaston got off to a flyer reaching 50 in the 10th over however the introduction of Rob Gomez brought immediate results with Gomez claiming Wollaston’s opener in his second over. Eddie Ingram then removed the dangerous Simon Driver first ball and Bowden began a period where they looked to peg back the visitors with Sam Freer and Gomez bowling with great control. The introduction of Mick Brammer immediately brought a wicket and with Freer turning the ball sharply at the other end Bowden still looked to be in the chase. However it wasn’t until Freer’s 13^th over that he got the breakthrough, removing Wollaston’s dangerous Andy Luck with the score at 130 for 5. Freer followed up by bowling Brett Hanson and Brammer claimed the wicket of Darren King for 0 leaving Wollaston on 149 for 7 with only a couple of over’s to go. Wollaston eventually levelled the scores and with a chipped single took the match. Ed Ingram finished with 1 for 32, Gomez 2 for 18 from 14 overs, Freer 2 for 48 from his full allocation of 15 overs and Brammer 2 for 16.

Bowden’s bowlers once again could feel proud of their performances with the batsmen firmly to blame for the current position the villagers find themselves in. Bowden have three key fixtures in the next three weeks and failure to secure some distance between them and the relegation zone could see the villagers in Division 4 next year for the first time in five years.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 8th August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Stony Stratford 2^nd XI vs Bowden CC 1^st XI

Bowden suffered a comprehensive defeat at the hands of Stony Stratford on Saturday. Asked to bat first on the “greenest” wicket so far seen this season Bowden lost all of their wickets inside 22 overs as the capitulated to 53 all out.

The score book began to resemble a telephone number as no player reached double figures. Batter after batter returned to the pavilion having failed to muster the conditions. Three wickets a piece for Stony’s bowlers Harsh Jethra (3 for 22), Ali Khan (3 for 4) and James Canwell (3 for 8) did the damage.

It was never likely that Bowden were going to be able to defend such a low total and the home side rattled of the runs inside 18 overs, finishing on 57 for 3 before the tea interval. Tony Roberts (3 for 5) was the only successful Bowden bowler.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 8^th August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2^nd XI vs Yelvertoft 1^st XI

In a highly entertaining match at the Rec, Bowden’s 2^nd XI secured a draw against their nearest rivals Yelvertoft, a result which leaves both sides fighting hard to avoid relegation in what now looks to be an exciting finish to the season. In fact anyone of 7 sides could end up in the drop zone.

Bowden won the toss and elected to bowl first. Yelvertoft got away to a good start with openers Paul Brown (56) and Adrian Ratnayake (20) laying the foundations of a reasonable score. Gary Freestone (0 for 19), who celebrated his half-century in terms of age, again bowled with control. At the other end, Jack Ferguson (3 for 34) bowled with pace but it was Mick Brammer (2 for 44) who made the break through. John Eccles (41) added impetus and when Brown fell with the score on 94 a big score looked possible. Sam Keenan (1 for 20) restricted the scoring and some exceptional fielding and catching saw wickets fall at regular intervals, Ferguson and Brammer being the chief beneficiaries with a flurry of late wickets. When their innings closed, Yelvertoft had posted a competitive total of 187 for 7 from their 45 overs.

The home side were keen to make a positive start but the loss of openers Gary Waterfield (8) and Jack Ferguson (4) meant that a re-building exercise was required to steady the ship. Mick Brammer (49) rediscovered his form and was well supported by Ben Wade (27) and the pair crafted a quality partnership of 85 before Wade was unluckily out when the ball rolled back in to his stumps as he attempted a sweep shot. With overs disappearing, Brammer stepped on the gas but a mix up with Skipper Simon Linsell (8 not out) resulted in Brammer’s run out and the run chase was effectively ended. Despite some lusty blows from Kevin Woodhead (14), it was left to the Skipper and Jake Underwood (3 not out) to see out the remaining few overs and secure the draw. Bowden’s innings closed on 146 for 6.

Two victories in the remaining three matches of the season should see Bowden safe in Division 8 for next year.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Sunday 9^th August 2009

The Roger Funnell Memorial Match

Bowden CC vs Harborough District XI

Bowden CC and a select XI from the Harborough district played their annual Roger Funnell memorial game at Bowden Rec on Sunday.

Bowden were asked to bat first and immediately lost opener Jack Ferguson bowled by Chris Weir for 0. Mark Kenny then quickly followed for 12 along with Colin Leeder, also for 12. Bowden looked in a bit of trouble at 38 for 3 before Ben Wade and Fergus Kenny rebuilt the innings with an 80 run partnership before Wade departed for 26. Fergus Kenny scored an impressive 66 before being caught in the deep and it was then left to Steve Oldfield (26 not out) to bring Bowden up to what looked to be a below par 165 for 9.

Bowden got of to a great start removing both of the District’s openers Ash Walker and Andy Marshall however a partnership between Bowden’s chairman (playing for the opposition) Rob Gomez and Harborough’s Chris Weir of 125 brought the district to victory for the second year running. Gomez finished 58 not out and Weir 60 not out in the districts 169 for 3.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 1^st August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Kempston Hammers CC 1^st XI vs Bowden CC 1^st XI

Rain in Bedfordshire curtailed any chance of a result in the important Division 3 league encounter between Kempston and Bowden on Saturday.

Before the abandonment, the game was nicely placed. The home side won the toss and elected to bowl first on a damp pitch under an overcast grey leaden sky. Bowden got off to a poor start losing openers Steve Oldfield (7) and Fergus Kenny (0) early. Some quality batting by Tony Roberts (36) helped the scoring along but another collapse in the middle order left the visitors in some trouble at 81 for 6. Chris Knowles (0), Mark Kenny (6) and Jake Underwood (2) all failed to deal with the conditions. Useful contributions from Guy Other (34) and Rob Gomez (52) towards the later part of the innings ensured that Bowden had something competitive to bowl at when they were eventually all out in the 46^th over for 158.

After tea, with the weather closing in, Bowden attempted to knock over the Kempston batters quickly. Ben Moss (1 for 37), Sam Freer (1 for 11) and Rob Gomez (1 for 5) all claimed a wicket apiece but after 15 overs with the Kempston at 64 for 3 the heavens opened and the game was abandoned.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 1^st August 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2^nd XI vs Obelisk CC 1^st XI

The weather put pay to any chance of a result in the Division 8 encounter between Bowden CC 2^nd XI and Obelisk CC 1^st XI at Bowden Rec on Saturday. Despite the efforts of the home team players to mop up the square and the outfield before a delayed 3pm start only 6 overs was possible before further heavy rain intervened with Obelisk having reached 21 for 1 and the game was abandoned.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 4^th July 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Bowden CC 1^st XI vs Oundle CC 1^st XI

Bowden’s 1^st XI were on the wrong end of a heavy loss on Saturday when league leaders Oundle Town travelled to The Rec and inflicted an 8 wicket defeat of their hosts in double quick time.

Stand-in skipper, Sam Freer loss the toss and his side were asked to bat first on a pitch which looked full of runs. As so often this season, early wickets at the top of the order put pressure on those batters coming to the crease later and this week proved no different. Jack Ferguson (10); Fergus Kenny (13) and Tony Roberts (12) all threatened to get a start before being dismissed and leaving the home side 58 for 3. The introduction of Oundle’s second and third change bowlers sealed Bowden’s fate as David Foster (4 for 47) and Martin van de Merwe (4 for 9) ran through the rest of the batting with only Jamie Horne (22) and Ayaz Younus (27) offering any resistance.

A target of just 120 was never going to be challenging enough and Oundle decided that they weren’t going to hang around in their chase. Martin van de Merwe was particularly savage as he clubbed his was to 99 not out. A wicket for Jack Ferguson (1 for 37) and a run-out were the only highlights for Bowden as Oundle raced across the finishing line in only the 16^th over.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 4^th July 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Spencer CC 1^st XI vs. Bowden CC 2^nd XI

Having recently inflicted a 10-wicket defeat on Obelisk CC, Bowden’s 2^nd XI were the victims of just such a trouncing from top-of-the-tale side Spencer at their picturesque Stoke Bruerne ground on Saturday. Bowden travelled with a weakened team having lost several key players to the 1^st XI but were in determined mood.

A fourth lost toss in a row saw Bowden being invited to bat first on a sloping pitch which, so it transpired, none of the batsmen could get to grips with. Gary Waterfield (8) did set off at a gallop, depositing the home side’s opening bowler for a huge six in the first over although he managed to hit his own car with the shot. Waterfield fell in the 3^rd over whilst his partner, Simon Linsell (13) scratched around at the other end without finding any timing but occupying the crease. A succession of wickets fell, Joe Robinson (4); Steve Bellamy (4) and Sam Gomez (6) which left the visitors with half their batsmen out and the innings in tatters at 62 for 5. Things got worse – Jake Underwood (2) was followed by three ducks from Mark Lumby; Lee Munton and Gordon Robinson and it was left to Gary Freestone (8) to add some respite by clumping a couple of leg-side boundaries before the innings folded at 76 all out.

Spencer had to survive 10 overs before tea and managed to do so – just. Opening bowlers Steve Bellamy (0 for 8) and Gary Freestone (0 for 13) both bowled exceptionally well without any luck, the batters just used their experience of batting regularly on such a n awkward pitch. After the interval, youngsters Ali Williams (0 for 19) and Lee Munton (0 for 27) both excelled without capturing an elusive wicket and the home side got home in the 27^th over.

Bowden Cricket Club - March Report Saturday 27th June 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2^nd XI vs Wellingborough Old Grammarians CC 2^nd XI

Inclement weather effectively scuppered Bowden’s 2^nd XI the chance of victory against bottom placed side Wellingborough OG’s. Heavy rain on Thursday had left the square very damp and further rain just as the match stated meant a loss of 18 overs from the day’s play.

Wellingborough won the toss and naturally decided to bowl first in the rain shortened match. Bowden’s openers Gary Waterfield and Steve Oldfield set off at a canter against the new ball bowlers; Oldfield was particularly harsh on anything short or wide whilst Waterfield steadily accumulated his runs. When Oldfield departed for 23 with the score on 44 this signalled a mild collapse as last week’s heroes Skipper Simon Linsell (0) and James Horne (1) were unable to capitalise. Waterfield received some support from Ross McSeveney (7) and Joe Robinson (10) but at 94 for 5 the innings was in danger of falling some way short of a decent competitive score. Two further wickets followed when Henry Hall (3) and Sam Gomez (4) both went cheaply. Meanwhile at the other end Waterfield was giving a batting master-class, passing 50 once again this season. The loss of Gomez’s wicket brought Steve Bellamy (26 not out) to the crease and he was able to provide the support that his partner required. The pair added an unbroken 52 runs which enabled the skipper to declare the innings at 172 for 7 with Waterfield having batted through the innings for an excellent 87 not out.

Bowden had 32 overs in which to push for victory after tea and a good start was required. Gary Freestone (0 for 17) once again bowled with good pace and excellent control but without any luck, consistently beating the outside edge. Steve Bellamy (2 for 30) at the other end claimed the important early wickets and was matched in his effort by young Ali Williams (2 for 19). At 49 for 4 after 16 overs survival was all that was on the visitor’s mind as they dug in to try and preserve their wickets. Leg-spinner Sam Gomez (0 for 13) from his 8 overs bowled exceptionally well but the batsmen didn’t offer a chance as they pushed and prodded back down the pitch. Bowden tried everything, rotating the bowlers and crowding the batsmen but were unable to make the breakthrough as Wellingborough saw out the remaining overs and their innings finished at 85 for 4.

The result leaves Bowden handily placed in fourth place in the division, just one place of a promotion spot. With 8 games to go in the league season a concerted push could see the village side challenge the top 3 for a sport in Division 7 next season.

Saturday 20th June 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Bowden CC 1^st XI vs St Crispens & Ryelands CC 1^st XI

Bowden’s first eleven entertained St Crispins & Ryelands at Bowden Rec on Saturday and having won the toss Bowden invited the visitors to bat first.

Bowden got off to a good start with Eddie Ingram removing one of the St Crispin’s openers for 12. Bowden bowled tightly and restricted the runs well, never allowing St Crispin’s to accelerate. The introduction of bowlers Rob Gomez and Tony Roberts started a steady flow of wickets for the home side. Gomez finished with 5 for 50 from 15 overs and Tony Roberts 4 for 48 from his 15 overs as the pair restricted St Crispin’s to 168 all out in the 48^th over.

Bowden set about chasing what should have been a very manageable total on a good batting pitch. However Bowden capitulated to 76 all out with only Fergus Kenny showing any application with a score of 21. Nick Kerr was the chief destroyer for the visitors with 5 for 29 from his 15 overs.

Saturday 20^th June 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Obelisk CC 1^st XI vs Bowden CC 2^nd XI

Bowden’s 2^nd XI, who were searching for an elusive win, travelled the short distance into Northamptonshire to play Obelisk CC 1^st XI at their Kingsthorpe ground. By 4.30pm they were on their way home, victorious by the biggest of margins, following a 10 wicket thumping of their hosts.

Obelisk captain, Ben Richardson won the toss and decided to have first use of a wicket that looked reasonable. Openers Carl White (21) and Michael Mullins (14) rode their luck as three chances went begging before skipper Simon Linsell clung-on gratefully to a sharp chance at second slip in the 7^th over with the score on 29 to give Sam Keenan (1 for 27) the opening wicket. Gary Freestone (1 for 12) immediately struck in the following over to remove the other opener and this heralded the start of a dramatic collapse.

The introduction of Steve Bellamy in the 11^th over proved to be turning point. Bowling down the hill with genuine pace, Bellamy ripped out the stumps of the next four batsmen and claimed a fifth wicket when Gary Waterfield accepted an easy chance at mid-on. Bellamy returned the amazing figures of 5 wickets for 6 runs from just 3 overs as the Obelisk batsmen simply had no idea how to play his bowling. Meanwhile at the other end, Ben Wade was mopping up the other batsmen, claiming 2 wickets for 12 runs. Bryn Morris finished off the innings when he bowled the number 11. Obelisk had by then been blown away for just 70 runs in 19 overs.

The tea-ladies hadn’t yet arrived, so after the mandatory 10 minute break between innings, Bowden’s opening batsmen Simon Linsell and Jamie Horne strode to the middle in their attempt to chase down the runs for victory. The batters were expecting some lively bowling in response to the home side’s dismal batting display and they weren’t disappointed! Some aggressive bowling from Ben Richardson (0 for 20) and Robert Kennedy (0 for 12) tested the batters who were up for the challenge. The pair played exceptionally well, rotating the strike with some quick singles and punishing anything short or wide which they despatched to the boundary. As the bowlers became more frustrated the more the batters took advantage and by the beginning of the 14^th over the game was won. Simon Linsell finished on 31 not out and Jamie Horne recorded an excellent 25 not out with 16 extras.

Sunday 21^st June 2009

Friendly Fixture

Bowden CC XI vs Stoneygate CC XI

Bowden’s Sunday side took on Stoneygate at Bowden Rec on Sunday and racked up an impressive 234 for 5 in their allotted time. Bowden lost opener Jake Thornton for 0 in the second over bringing brothers Fergus and Mark Kenny together at the crease. The pair put on 95 for the second wicket with Mark Kenny departing for 36 shortly after Fergus had passed 50. Ed Ingram chipped in with a solid 22 before he was out. Fergus Kenny continued to accumulate steadily along with Rob Gomez (28) and Alexa Passingham (13 not out) and brought up his century with a well struck boundary. This was Fergus Kenny’s maiden century and he was faultless throughout the afternoon, not offering a chance until eventually being stumped for 109 off the Bowling of Ali Gordon.

Bowden then set about defending the total and immediately found success with Ed Ingram bowling Stoneygate’s opener in the fifth over. Wickets regularly fell with Lee Munton (1 for 10 from 5) and Alexa Passingham (1 for 11 from five) chipping in. Alexa Passingham also smartly ran out Stoneygate’s John Ford with an excellent piece of ground fielding. However the star of the second half of the match was 14 year old Matt Williams who removed the last six Stoneygate batsmen in his spell taking figures of 6 wickets for 2 Runs from 4.4 overs, twice being on a hat-trick as Stoneygate were bowled out for 80.

Saturday 13^th June 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Irchester CC 1^st XI Bowden CC 1^st XI

Bowden travelled to high flying Irchester at the weekend. Stand-in skipper Rob Gomez lost the toss and Bowden was asked to bat first.

Bowden got off to the worst possible start losing opener Mick Brammer for 0 followed next ball by Fergus Kenny, LBW. However Jack Ferguson and Tony Roberts began to build a partnership, as they have so often done already this season, to restore the innings with a flurry of well timed boundaries. Both looked in imperious form. It was the more dominant Roberts who fell first, bowled by Irchester’s captain Nathan McDonald for 42. Ferguson continued to bat with measured aggression and despite the next two batsmen falling for low scores with Ferguson at the crease a total in excess of 200 looked possible. Daniel Varnsverry worked with Ferguson chipping in 23 before a further flurry of wickets including Ferguson for an excellent 87 left Bowden all out for 184 in 48 overs. Pick of the home side’s bowlers was Nathan McDonald who finished with 4-37.

Bowden got off to a great start after the interval with Steve Bellamy getting the first breakthrough by removing Joe Morton for 0. Irchester’s Harrison and Beard looked to steadily build runs against Eddie Ingram and Steve Bellamy without really accelerating. The introduction of Mick Brammer and Rob Gomez stemmed the runs further. Gomez first removed Beard for 14 and then Brammer removed Leyshon caught by Roberts for 5 leaving Bowden well in the driving seat. However Craig Parson combined with Harrison to build a partnership eventually broken by Gomez who had Parsons well caught by Steve Bellamy for 17. Bowden still felt that they were in control with the required run rate creeping up. Mark Cooper scored 21 before being dismissed by Tony Roberts. Harrison had continued to bat through the clatter of wickets and then took his scoring up a gear by striking a number of big sixes and fours. He was well supported by Nathan McDonald and they made Bowden pay dearly for not batting out their allocation of over’s by hitting the required boundary to win the match in the 52^nd over with three balls to spare. Harrison eventually finishing 90 not out and McDonald 22 not out. Mick Brammer (1 for 15), Rob Gomez (2 for 48), Steve Bellamy (1 for 18) and Tony Roberts (1 for 23) were the successful bowlers for Bowden.

Bowden Cricket Club – Match Report Saturday 13^th June 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2^nd XI vs Barton Seagrave CC 1^st XI

In an excellent contest at The Rec, Bowden’s 2nd XI was narrowly defeated by a Barton Seagrave team who fought to the very end. In fact, any of three results was possible at the start of the last over of the match.

On another glorious day, Bowden won their 4^th consecutive toss and Skipper, Simon Linsell, elected to bat first on what looked to be a firm pitch ideally suited to batting. Gary Waterfield (16) and Steve Oldfield (23) set a good platform for those following to build upon. The pair put on a half century opening partnership which was full of entertaining shots before both openers fell within a run of each other. Simon Linsell (17) and Richard Jones (13) kept the momentum going before their dismissals and the loss of Ben Wade (7) left the score hanging precariously at 98 for 5 at the half way point. When the sixth wicket fell with the loss of Henry Hall (4) there was a very real danger of the innings subsiding disappointingly. However the lower middle order seized their opportunity and played with great authority. Ross McSeveney (27), Sam Gomez (39 not out) and Sam Keenan (23 not out) really made the best use of the excellent batting surface and plundered the bowling in the last 20 overs of the innings. By the end of their allotted 45 overs Bowden had posted a competitive total of 189 for 7 wickets.

After the tea interval the Barton Seagrave reply got off to the worst possible start when their leading batsmen Chris Barton (5) edged to slip where Malcolm Walker parried the chance to Richard Jones in the gully, who gratefully clung to the rebound. The visitor’s other opener, Jem Palmer (4) soon followed, losing his off stump to Ben Wade (2 for 51). The positioned deteriorated further for Barton Seagrave when Malcolm Walker (3 for 46) had Lee Skinner caught at mid-off by Gary Waterfield. 39 for 3 soon became 56 for 4 when David Keevil (0) was smartly stumped by wicket-keeper Simon Linsell, from a delivery called ‘wide’ by the umpire off the bowling of Ali Williams (1 for 35).

However all the while, at the other end, Matthew Cortese (67) had been putting together an excellent innings. He received good support from Scott Marshall (22) and the pair added 60 runs in even time. Bowden’s best chance of pressing for victory was to keep Barton Seagrave interested in the run chase. When these two fell with the score at 142 for 7 the home side were clear favourites. Brian Penn (32 not out) and Daniel Barton (15) had other ideas and batted excellently to get the visitors within striking distance of a remarkable victory. When Barton was dismissed the score was 177 for 8 and by the time the final over began 2 were required for victory with any result possible. It was however Penn who struck the boundary to secure the points for the visitors. Despite the defeat, Bowden can be commended for competing in an excellent match, played in a good spirit which went down to the wire.

Sunday 14^th June 2009

Friendly Fixture

Langton’s CC XI vs. Bowden CC XI

Bowden’s Sunday XI confidently travelled to the Langton’s after back-to-back wins, in a timed Friendly game.

On a sunny day, Langton’s won the toss and elected to bat first on a pitch that looked full of runs! Langton’s got off to a decent start, with the score ticking along at around three an over. A good base had been set with the score at 65 for 1 after 20 overs. Bowden’s youthful team was full of bowling, with nine of the eleven players sharing the 40 overs between them. Some young bowlers showed their potential. Lee Munton, Jake Thornton and Ali Williams picking up a wicket each. Pick of the batsmen for the Langton’s were Edward Prince and P. Horspool, however all of the Langton’s batsmen chipped in, and the home side finished on 190 for 4.

Bowden’s chase was always going to be tough with so many youngsters in the side, and when in form Sam Gomez was bowled for a duck in the fourth over, things were looking grim. However Jack Ferguson and Henry Hall had other ideas, and Bowden’s run rate rocketed to nearly eight an over! With the score at 95 for 1 after 12 overs Bowden looked to be in the driving seat, but the game took a twist when Hall was comprehensively bowled by T. Betts (3 for 35). This wicket started a collapse and no-one else really got a sizeable score. Things were still looking good though with Ferguson at the crease, and the required run rate was hovering around the four an over mark. But the game was turned on its head when Ferguson was given LBW for 94. This brought Gordon Robinson to the crease, and some powerful hitting took his score to 18, and with 6 needed from the final over of the match, it could have gone either way! Opening bowler Gary Freestone was on strike and after batting back the first ball, he was bowled with the second. Bowden’s innings finished on 185 all out, just 5 runs short of victory! Again the overs were shared with 7 of the 11 Langton’s team having a bowl, pick of those bowlers were E. Prince (3 for 11) T. Betts (3 for 35) and Captain M. Bradshaw (2 for 21).

Saturday 6^th June 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Bowden CC 1^st XI vs Towcestrians CC 1^st XI

Bowden endured a second successive defeat at Bowden Rec in a game that once again they will feel they should have won. After heavy overnight rain Bowden’s pitch covers did their job which meant that the match started on time. Bowden lost the toss and were asked to bat first.

Bowden’s two openers got off to a cautious start however Jack Ferguson quickly found fluency hitting some well judged boundaries. Supported by Fergus Kenny the two openers got Bowden off to a solid start putting on 92 for the first wicket with Kenny falling first for 23. Ferguson was the next to go for a well crafted 63 and Bowden then lost some of the initiative from the good start by failing to accumulate runs in the middle of the innings. A regular fall of wickets meant that Bowden reached only 188 for 8 from their allotted 50 overs with Sam Freer the only other notable scorer with 22.

So Bowden set about defending a total which looked below par. However a fantastic start from Bowden opening bowler, Steve Bellamy, who got a wicket with the second ball of the innings when the batter was well caught by Mick Brammer in the gully. Jack Ferguson also piled on the pressure from the other end and Bowden looked to be well on top, with the visitors struggling at 60 for 4 after 20 overs, which included a run out from the boundary by Ferguson. Rob Gomez came into the attack and restricted the runs by also taking two wickets. However the solid batting of Towcestrians number 3, Ben Laycock, meant that although Bowden pushed and controlled the score, Towcestrians came out the victors with three over’s spare and three wickets in hand. Laycock finished 101 not out hitting a six to win the match. Bowden’s bowling figures were Steve Bellamy (3 for 31), Jack Ferguson (1 for 63) and Rob Gomez (2 for 47).

Bowden go into next weeks match at Irchester knowing that they now need to get more runs on the board in the first innings having now lost the last two matches by failing to post the extra 30 to 40 runs needed to be really competitive.

Saturday 6^th June 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Kislingbury Temperance CC 1^st XI vs Bowden CC 2^nd XI

Despite an excellent bowling performance, Bowden’s 2^nd XI were bullied out of their game against Kislingbury, as they slumped to a 98 run defeat on a cold and damp afternoon in Northamptonshire.

Skipper, Simon Linsell, won his third consecutive toss and had little hesitation in inviting the home side to bat first on a wicket which had suffered from the overnight rain. The omens were good as opening bowlers, Eddie Ingram (3 for 63) and Ben Wade (5 for 52) made early in-roads into the Kislingbury top order. The pair bowled with pace on a helpful wicket and the Northamptonshire side were soon in some trouble at 35 for 3. A dropped catch at mid-off proved to be hugely expensive as the No. 4 batter, Paul Watford, on just 10 at the time, went on to marshal the lower order and complete an excellent century with an even 100.

Ali Williams (1 for 16) from his 6 overs proved yet again that he has the control and ability to perform at this level. A product of the youth system at Bowden, Williams appears nerveless when given the ball. Veteran Malcolm Walker, despite disappearing for 6 off his first ball, bowled with flight and guile as his 9 overs went for just 31 runs and the reward of a wicket. Young Lee Munton (0 for 27) was unable to claim a wicket in the game but continues to show promise. The return of the opening bowling pair of Ingram and Wade helped clean up the tail and secure maximum bowling points for the village side as Kislingbury were dismissed in the final over of their allocation for 197.

After tea, Bowden lost 2 quick wickets at the start of their reply, Sam Gomez (0) and Jamie Horne (3) both falling to some excellent fast bowling. Steve Oldfield (31) and Ben Wade (12) set about a recovery but when Wade was given out LBW the resistance began to crumble. Ross McSeveney (14) bludgeoned a couple of boundaries but the introduction of the third quick bowler, Bobby Leah (6 for 27) who bowled with genuine pace, proved too much. Ed Ingram (6) was unable to cope with the short ball, Simon Linsell (0) was unable to keep out a ‘shooter’ and Lee Munton (0) lost his off stump. Joe Robinson (21) took on the bowling late in the innings with a couple of excellent hook shots but when he departed the match was effectively over and Bowden were eventually dismissed for 99 in the 33^rd over.

Saturday 30th May 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Wollaston CC 2^nd XI vs Bowden CC 1^st XI

Following last week’s excellent victory Bowden 1^st XI suffered a reverse and a narrow defeat at the hands of Wollaston.

Having won the toss Bowden elected to bat first however Wollaston forced the villagers on to the back foot almost immediately with Simon Driver removing Bowden’s Mick Brammer (5) and Fergus Kenny (1) both for single figures scores. Tony Roberts (8) looked in good touch striking two early boundaries but was dismissed with a top edged pull shot and was quickly followed by Mark Kenny (14) and Ben Wade (11). This left Bowden struggling on 55 for 5.

However Rob Gomez and Chris Knowles set about rebuilding the score with Knowles batting with great responsibility and excellent shot selection. Gomez departed first for 9 however the time spent at the crease with Knowles was invaluable and helped to post a score. Sam Freer came to the wicket and struck a fantastic six to raise hopes and followed up with a flurry of fours before he eventually departed for 21. Knowles continued to steadily accumulate before he was eventually dismissed for 47. It was then left to Eddie Ingram (13 not out) and Danny Varnsverry (7 not out) to raise the score to 158 for 9 which still looked below par on a good pitch.

Bowden then set about defending the total and Wollaston got off to a flyer, scoring 55 off the first 10 overs without loss. The introduction of off-spinner Sam Freer immediately stemmed the flow of runs but it was Rob Gomez who struck first removing the Wollaston opener, Marcus Shelton for 36, well caught by Chris Knowles at first slip. Gomez bowled with great control taking 1 for 44 from his 15 overs. Sam Freer then removed the other opener, Lewis Bates for 30 and the dangerous number 3, Simon Driver, for a duck. Freer also claimed the wicket of Harmit Bahra (13) to bring Bowden back into the game.

The introduction back into the attack of fast bowler Steve Bellamy in the 28^th over immediately brought success when he removed Andy Luck (10) with the first ball of his new spell and then followed this wicket in his following over by removing the Wollaston skipper. Tony Roberts (1 for 9) claimed the wicket of Darren Laughton (19) and Wollaston were seven down and still requiring 30 runs to win. Bowden really looked to be in the driving seat however it wasn’t to be. Bowden claimed two wickets with no balls and a steely innings from David Clarkson (31 not out) brought home the points for Wollaston.

Saturday 30th May

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2nd XI vs Long Buckby CC 2nd XI

Bowden’s 2nd XI took full advantage of the excellent weather at the weekend and a scintillating batting display saw the team record their highest total for a number of years. However they were unable to turn this dominance with the bat into a victory as the visitor’s batsmen enjoyed the flat pitch too and played out for the draw.

Having won his second consecutive toss, skipper Simon Linsell elected to bat first on what looked to be a pitch full of runs. Jack Ferguson (135 not out) was the star of the innings, clubbing a ferocious and undefeated century. Ferguson was well supported by fellow opener Gary Waterfield (23) as the pair enjoyed a first wicket stand of 69 in good time. Guy Other (47) started with a few injudicious shots but once he had settled at the crease he and Ferguson enjoyed a run feast as a stand of 85 in 10 overs saw Bowden’s scoring accelerate at a rapid pace. Jack Ferguson was particular hard on anything pitched short whilst Guy Other concentrated on some elegant cover driving.

Despite the loss of Guy Other, the momentum of the innings continued as Sam Gomez (15) played sensibly and ensured that Ferguson was able to continue to dominate the bowling. At 258 for 3 in only the 41st over this gave the skipper the luxury of declaring the innings and adding the 4 unused overs to the normal bowling allocation of 45 overs to try and dismiss Long Buckby.

Patience and discipline were always going to be required as Bowden tried to press for victory after tea. Wickets were never likely to come cheaply on such a good batting surface and so it proved. Several dropped catches in the field didn’t help although the ground fielding was generally good. The opening salvo from new ball bowling pair Sam Keenan and Benn Moss produced only one wicket when Moss (1 for 36) dismissed Steve Dickinson (3) but the visitor’s second wicket pair then dug in and produced a stand of 78. Bowden were never really in danger of losing the match and they rotated the bowlers frequently to try and ‘buy’ a wicket or two. Jack Ferguson (1 for 15) followed up his batting display with a wicket whilst Lee Munton (0 for 14) and Guy Other (0 for 11) both went unrewarded. Sensible batting from Joe Oliver (33), Mo Jaffer (44) and a half century from David Streatfield (58) ensured that Long Buckby were never in any serious danger of being bowled out. Sam Gomez (2 for 40) and Sam Keenan (1 for 38) took a couple of wickets towards the end to claim some further valuable bowling points as the visitors innings closed on 203 for 6.

Saturday 23rd May

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Bowden CC 1st XI Vs Stony Stratford 2nd XI

Bowden enjoyed victory at Bowden Rec with a four wicket defeat of Stony Stratford. Bowling first Bowden continued to make the new ball count and kept runs tight in the first 25 overs through Rob Gomez (1 for 21), Eddie Ingram (0 for 15) and Ben Wade (0 for 23). Rob Gomez struck first removing Stony's opener Neil Allen (0), well caught by Chris Knowles at first slip. Stony continued to build slowly but the introduction of Tony Roberts turned the innings on its head. Roberts removed the number 3 batter Chris Bolton (31) with the score at 72 for 2 and then ripped through the Stony middle order with devastating effect. Roberts returned figures of 6 for 16 from 9.1 overs and was well supported by Sam Freer (2 for 46). Bowden eventually bowled out the visitors for a modest 131 in the 43rd over. Once again Bowden fielded extremely well and contained runs on a good batting track with Eddie Ingram, Chris Knowles, Tony Roberts and skipper Mark Kenny taking the outfield catches.

Bowden’s reply got off to a horrible start when they lost opener Mark Kenny in the 2nd over to an ill conceived shot for a duck. Rob Gomez then set about steadily accumulating runs with Fergus Kenny to take the score to 32 for 2 before one of Gomez's shots didn’t quite beat the infield and he was caught for 18. Wickets fell at regular intervals with Fergus Kenny dismissed LBW for 11. Chris Knowles followed soon after, bowled for 10, and at 64 for 4 it looked like it was going to be close. However a partnership between Tony Roberts (33) and Ben Wade (14 not out) took Bowden closer to victory. Roberts eventually fell after a well crafted innings to cap an excellent day for the all rounder. Towards the end, Bowden lost Ali Williams (2), however Ben Wade and Sam Freer (9 not out) brought Bowden home by four wickets.

Bowden go into next week’s fixture against Wollaston with an almost full strength squad to pick from and the hope that both the first and second teams can continue the momentum to what has so far been an excellent start to the season.

Saturday 23rd May
Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Thrapston CC 2nd XI vs Bowden CC 2nd XI

After a run of two consecutive defeats, Bowden’s 2^nd XI travelled to top of the table Thrapston and secured an excellent hard fought draw with contributions from everyone in the team.

Stand-in skipper Simon Linsell won the toss and invited the home side to bat first on a decent looking pitch. Thrapston’s openers got off to a steady start as new ball bowlers Sam Keenan (0 for 30) and Ben Moss (1 for 24) making a return to the club after a spell at University, bowled accurately and contained the batters. On a hot afternoon, Bowden turned to young leg-spinner Sam Gomez (0 for 42) who bowled excellently in his 11 overs and never let the batsmen get away. Despite three early dropped catches the home side were never able to plunder the bowling. The breakthrough came with the introduction of the swing bowling of Bryn Morris (4 for 68) when Gary Waterfield held a catch at point to dismiss opener Allan Garton (34). Two excellent catches by the skipper in the gully reduced Thrapston to 96 for 3 by the halfway stage.

Powerful hitting from middle order batsmen Mark Palmer (93 not out) added impetus to the innings whilst never really dominating. The bowlers continued to exercise discipline which was well supported by some excellent fielding. Young Lee Munton (0 for 23) bowled well at a difficult time and Malcolm Walker (1 for 34) claimed a wicket before Ben Moss retuned at the end of the innings to secure another bowling point for the village side as the home side closed on 229 for 6 from their 45 overs.

It was always going to be a stiff target for Bowden to chase down despite a good wicket and the visitors were determined to give a good account. Despite the early loss of Sam Gomez (0) a steady second wicket partnership between Gary Waterfield (15) and a classy knock from Jamie Horne (19) ensured that a platform was established. Henry Hall (15) played a number of powerful shots and skipper Simon Linsell (10) consumed plenty of overs as Bowden dug in. At 79 for 7 however with 20 overs to go the omens weren’t good. It required determination from Joe Robinson (17) and Bryn Morris (15) to frustrate the bowlers before the last wicket pair of Sam Keenan (20 not out) and Malcolm Walker (5 not out) were able to see out the last 6 overs as Bowden saw out the draw, closing on 144 for 9 in reply.

Saturday 16^th May 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Bowden CC 1^st X1 vs Kempston Hammers CC 1^st XI

Bowden's 1st XI toiled at the Rec on Saturday against their Bedford opponents Kempston Hammers.

Having one the toss Bowden invited Kempston to bat and the visitors built solidly through their two openers James Housden (59) and Rob Wainright (46). Jack Ferguson (1 for 48) and Steve Bellamy (0 for 52) bowled well however the pitch didn’t trouble the Kempston openers so Bowden turned to Sam Freer (0 for 32) to offer a spin option. Kempston continued to build slowly looking and set a foundation for a push at the end of the innings with wickets in hand. The visitors only offered one chance to Bowden in the first twenty overs which was put down by Chris Knowles at first slip from the bowling of Bellamy. At the drinks interval Kempston were 85 for 0 and looking at a big total with wickets in hand. It wasn’t until the introduction of Eddie Ingram (1 for 45) that Bowden got the breakthrough with Ingram bowling Wainright. Bowden continued to push but wickets were hard to come by with Ferguson the only other Bowden bowler to breakthrough removing Housden caught at mid-off. Kempston still looked set for a big score however excellent containment from Sam Freer kept Kempston down to 192-2 from their 50 overs.

Bowden's reply started well with openers Jack Ferguson (50) and Fergus Kenny (18) starting in a solid fashion and putting on 49 for the first wicket. Kenny the first to depart, smashing a full toss straight to cover. Skipper Mark Kenny (17) didn’t fair much better after taking the score to 87 for 1 when he chipped a full toss to mid-wicket. Ferguson too fell in similar fashion having scored a half century for the second week running and Bowden’s good start was starting to falter. Chris Knowles (19) and Ben Wade (32) set about recovering the innings until Knowles was removed for 19. Wade continued to play with great control but wickets continued to fall around him until he was dismissed with the score at 160 for 8. A victory still looked on course with Eddie Ingram (16) at the crease; however his dismissal left Bowden just short of the target and having to settle for the draw. Steve Bellamy (4 not out) and Henry Hall (0 not out) played out the last three overs and the innings closed at 178 for 9.

Saturday 16th May 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Barton Seagrave 1^st XI vs Bowden CC 2^nd XI

With overnight rain and some heavy showers before the start of the match, the toss was always going to be important when Bowden’s 2^nd XI travelled to Barton Seagrave for their Division 8 league encounter.

Bowden lost the toss and were inserted on the proverbial ‘sticky dog’ but got off to a reasonable start with Gary Waterfield (28) and Tony Marlow (10) adding 30 for the first wicket before Marlow was adjudged LBW. Simon Linsell (24 not out) came to the crease and the second wicket pair looked untroubled as they added another 30 runs before Waterfield fell tamely, caught in the covers. This triggered a huge collapse as batsmen followed batsmen back to the pavilion as Simon Linsell, untroubled at the other end could only look on in.

No other batsmen was able to manage the conditions and four of Bowden’s middle order departed without troubling the scorers. Unable to find a willing colleague to hang around with him, Linsell continued to accumulate runs but ran out of partners when the innings closed at 113 all out in the 34^th over.

After tea, the breeze and sunshine continued to dry out the wicket and Barton Seagrave’s opening batter, Chris Barton (47) wasted no time in chasing down the runs for victory. Bowden’s skipper, Rob Gomez (1 for 54) came in for some particular punishment but was unlucky not to have Barton caught early in his innings as two good opportunities were spilt in the field. Malcolm Walker (0 for 14) from 11 overs bowled with excellent control from the other end without any luck. Both of Bowden’s younger team members, Sam Gomez (0 for 25) and Lee Munton (1 for 17) showed that they have the ability at this level but by this time the victory line was in sight and Barton Seagrave recorded an easy win in the 32^nd over of their reply.

Despite the set-back, Bowden sit in third place in the division but will need to improve significantly when they travel to top of the table Thrapston next week.

Sunday 10^th May 2009

Friendly Fixture

Bowden CC XI vs Husbands Bosworth CC XI

Bowden’s Sunday side took on local rivals Husbands Bosworth on Sunday. Bosworth’s captain won the toss and asked Bowden to bat first.

This looked to be a bad decision as the Bowden openers, brothers Mark and Fergus Kenny drove and cut the ball to all parts of the ground as the score raced along to 71 for 0 of 12 overs. However Bosworth’s Woodford removed Mark Kenny and then Sam Gomez first ball to leave the opening bowler on a hat-trick. The next ball was a brute to Rob Gomez who fended it away with his glove, but the batter survived. Ed Bail then removed Fergus Kenny which left Bowden in a lot of trouble at 99 for 6.

However a 96 run partnership between Rob Gomez and Bowden under 15 Matt Williams (12) brought the score up to 197-7 in their allotted time, Gomez scoring 57 before being caught off the last ball of the innings.

Bowden’s opening bowlers Jack Ferguson and Ed Ingram ran riot form the start of the visitor’s reply, Ferguson removing opener Jim Smith first ball of the innings quickly followed by Bosworth’s number three Jamie Lord. Eddie Ingram provided excellent support from the other end with a wicket in his first over which left Bosworth wobbling at 5 for 5. Bowden then introduced Williams who bowled well but it was the introduction of Upul Soysa and Ali Gordon which wrapped up the Bosworth innings Upul Soysa taking 3 for 4 and Ali Gordon 2 for 3. Bosworth were quickly dismissed for 50 with only Sam Freer and George Wade offering any resistance.

Saturday 9^th May 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Old Northamptonians CC 3^rd XI vs Bowden CC 1^st X1

Bowden travelled to ON's St Andrews ground and winning the toss Bowden asked ON's to bat first on a green looking pitch. Bowden got off to a great start keeping pressure on the ON's openers with a number of balls beating the bat and in the twelfth over Jack Ferguson (3 for 43) removed one of the ON's openers caught by Mark Kenny with the score on 20. Bowden continued to pile on the pressure and the second wicket fell in the 24th over with the score on 60. The introduction of Eddie Ingram (1 for 17) brought another wicket and with the score only at 63-3 after 26 overs Bowden looked to be well on top. However a rally from the ON's batters and in particular Mohsin Ahmed (72) brought ON's up to 182-9 in their 50 overs. Mick Brammer bowled well at the end of the innings taking 4-54 including a brilliant catch in the deep by Sam Freer. Steve Bellamy finished with 1-16 from 13 overs.

Bowden's reply didn’t get off to an ideal start losing Mick Brammer (2) to a ball that kept low on what had been a good pitch, Mark Kenny (5) then played a loose shot to leave the score 24-2. However Jack Ferguson and Tony Roberts combined to bring the score to 121-3, Ferguson being the man out in the 27th over for 51 with both men having passed 50. Tony Roberts continued to place the ball with expert precision and combined with Chris Knowles (23) who kept the score ticking along and bringing Bowden close to the target of 184. The loss of Knowles with three runs required brought Fergus Kenny (1 not out) to the crease. However no more surprises were in store with Tony Roberts hitting the winning runs, Roberts finished 90 not out and Bowden won by six wickets.

Bowden entertain Kempston Hammers on Saturday at Bowden Rec and sitting well placed in 3^rd position in Division 3 will fancy their chances of another victory.

Saturday 9th May 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2nd XI vs Spencer CC 1st XI

Bowden’s 2^nd XI fell to their first defeat of the season against a strong Spencer’s side. Bowden’s performance was not helped by the loss of their new-ball opening bowling pair who both succumbed to injuries which meant that they were only able to contribute 9 overs between them.

Spencer’s won the toss and asked the home side to bat and were quickly rewarded when they dismissed opener Gary Waterfield (6) cheaply. It was veteran Steve Oldfield (78) who with help from Simon Linsell stabled the ship as the pair put on a half century partnership. Captain Rob Gomez (31) added some impetus to the innings with a breezy knock before sending the ball skyward to be caught close to the wicket. Ben Wade (22 not out) played some lusty shots and despite the loss of Ash Broughton (0) and Henry Hall (1) found a willing partner in Joe Robinson (14) as the pair managed to steer the home side to a respectable 185 for 9 from their 45 overs.

So far this season, Bowden’s bowlers have feasted on the opposition batting and felt confident of defending the total once again. It wasn’t to be, unfortunate injuries to Gary Freestone (0 for 24) and Ben Wade (0 for 20) meant that the home side were up against it. It was left to Captain Rob Gomez (3 for 50) and the two youngest team players, Lee Munton (0 for 18) and Sam Gomez (0 for 36) to try and stem the tide. For Spencer’s, Steve Faulkner (53) and Richard Muscutt (52) both completed half centuries as the visitors chased down the target with few alarms, despite Steve Oldfield (0 for 24) attempting to roll back the years and find some of the fiery pace that few can now remember.

Despite the defeat, Bowden sit comfortably in second place in Division 8 and travel to bottom side Barton Seagrave this coming weekend.

Sunday 3rd May

Friendly Fixture

St Crispins & Ryelands CC XI vs Bowden CC XI

Bowden travelled to league opposition St Crispins and Ryelands for a friendly fixture at their picturesque ground in Duston on Sunday.

Bowden bowled first and St Crispins looked to be on target for a big score from the beginning. However excellent bowling from debutant Ali Gordon with a maiden five wicket haul for the club (5 for 51) stemmed the St Crispins total to 253 all out from 39 Overs. Eddie Ingram (2 for 35) was supported by Matt Williams and Harry Key who each took a wicket. M. Goff and S. Mitchell were the main run scorers for St Crispins scoring 69 and 85 respectively, but both were removed by the impressive Ali Gordon.

Bowden started their reply poorly and were quickly reduced to 34 for 2 chasing the large total. However Jack Ferguson had other ideas and set about crafting a personal best of 147 not out to see Bowden home to their total with overs to spare. Ferguson looked strong throughout and was ably supported by Lee Munton who scored 18 and Harry Key who scored 46 not out.

Saturday 2nd May 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Bowden CC 1st XI vs Rushden Town 2nd X1

Bowden's 1st XI was brought down to earth following last weeks emphatic victory against Raunds.

Having won the toss Bowdens captain Mark Kenny asked Rushden to bat on what looked to be a good batting surface.

Rushden started quickly in the first four overs however the bowling of Jack Ferguson and Steve Bellamy pegged them back to just over three an over. The introduction of Sam Freer brought results with Rushden's opening bat being caught in the deep by Ed Ingram. Sam Fowler of Rushden continued to accumilate steadily eventually falling for 76 in a score of 202-5. Bowdens bowlers stuck with it and kept the score down to what they believed was a par score on this track. Sam Freer being the main bowler taking 4-53 of his 15 overs ably supported by Mick Brammer (1-37), Jack Ferguson 0-40 of 13 and Bellamy and Ingram.

Bowdens reply got off to a bit of a stutter losing Brammer from a leading edge with the score on 14. Kenny and Ferguson continued to rebuild with a partnershp of 31 before Kenny was adjudged lbw for 21. This then lead to a Bowden collapse which saw the next seven wickets fall for 40 runs with only Danny Varnsverry offering resistance with 19. Tom Firm was the main destroyer for Rushden blasting 5 Bowden Batters out for 40 runs supported by his fellow opener Dench who claimed 3-24 of 12. It was then left to 10 and 11 in Ed Ingram and Lee Munton to bat for the draw which looked a possibility as they batted back the Rushden bowling however it wasnt to be as Rushden brought back on Dench who duly removed Ingram for 13 lbw leaving Lee Munton unbeaten on 16 in the 42nd over.

Bowden aim to dust themselves off this result and look towards posivite cricket against a strong and young Old Northamptonians side next week.

Saturday 2^nd May 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Yelvertoft 1^st XI vs Bowden CC 2^nd XI

Bowden’s 2^nd XI repeated last week’s performance and stormed to another 9 wicket victory in Division 8 of the Northants Cricket League, this time defeating near neighbours Yelvertoft. The result sees the Bowden sitting proudly on top of the table at this early point in the season.

Skipper Rob Gomez won the toss for the second consecutive week and invited the home side to bat first, a decision that was immediately rewarded when Sam Keenan (2 for 22) clean bowled opener Brad Nunn in the first over of the innings without a run on the board. Adrian Ratnayake (14) and William Mortimore (17) set about constructing a partnership before Keenan struck again to remove Mortimore. John Eccles (25) and Paul Brown (14) were both unable to capitalise on solid starts and Bowden were always in control. The introduction of leg spinner Sam Gomez (3 for 12) proved a pivotal moment in the innings as Yelvertoft began to subside. Ali Williams (0 for 11) bowled with excellent control but without any luck and it was the pace and movement of the ageless Gary Freestone (4 for 17) who mopped up the tail and with little resistance from the lower order Yelvertoft were dismissed for just 96 in only 37 overs.

Bowden fancied their chances of chasing down another small target and batted sensibly throughout their reply to ensure that they never gave Yelvertoft any chance of an unlikely victory. Bowden’s openers Steve Oldfield (27) and Fergus Kenny (39 not out) shared a stand of 56 to see the visitors on their way. Kenny was perhaps a little fortunate and was thankful that the eagle-eyes of umpire Robin Keightley, standing at square leg, spotted the 3 players fielding behind square on the leg-side and promptly called no-ball just before his middle stump was uprooted. An undefeated second wicket partnership of 41 between Simon Linsell (18 not out) and Fergus Kenny saw Bowden reach the 97 runs required for victory, both players enjoying themselves immensely, and each hitting big sixes.

Next week sees the side entertain Spencers CC at Bowden Rec’ and the team will be brimming with confidence following their best start to a season for a number of years.

Saturday 25th April 2009

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 3

Raunds Town CC 1^st XI v's Bowden CC 1^st X1

Bowden CC's 1st XI started the season with a storming result, beating Raunds Town 1st XI by 152 runs in the league’s opening fixture.

Skipper Mark Kenny lost the toss and his Bowden side was asked to bat first by the home side. Raunds created some pressure with tight bowling initially resulting in the wicket of Jack Ferguson for 6 runs. Mick Brammer (31) and Mark Kenny (39) rebuilt with a partnership of 52 before Brammer departed for 31 with the score on 72. Mark Kenny departed soon afterwards with only another 9 runs on the board. Tony Roberts (51) and Chris Knowles (19) then combined for a solid 56 partnership, before Knowles departed for 19 as a result of a fine delivery from Mason who eventually recorded 5 for 51 for Raunds. Ben Wade departed without scoring and was followed back to the Pavilion by Tony Roberts after completing his half century. By this time Bowden had progressed to 154 for 6 and were in some danger of falling short of a competitive total. However strong batting from Danny Varnsverry, Eddie Ingram and Sam Freer (19 not out) helped Bowden to 186 for 8 from their 50 overs and confident of defending the total.

Asked to do some damage with the new ball, Bowden turned to the effervescent Steve Bellamy who immediately took a wicket in the third ball of the innings, dismissing the Raunds opener for a duck. Jack Ferguson, his opening bowling partner, then responded with a wicket with the tenth ball of the innings caught, a good catch by Mark Kenny. With the momentum established there was little resistance from the batting side as Bowden then steered a magnificent course to victory by dismissing Raunds for just 34. Steve Bellamy (6 for 21 including 5 clean bowled) and Jack Ferguson (4 for 13) bowled unchanged throughout the innings. The last five wickets falling fell without a run being added.

Northamptonshire Cricket League – Division 8

Bowden CC 2^nd XI v's Long Buckby 2^nd XI

The trouncing delivered by the 1^st XI to their opposition was repeated at Bowden Rec’ as the Club’s 2^nd X1 put Long Buckby to the sword in a similarly emphatic manner.

Winning the toss, Bowden’s Skipper Rob Gomez was a little indecisive about what to do. He eventually settled on taking his side into the field first, a decision that was rewarded immediately, as the ‘new and old’ ball partnership of Sam Keenan (1 for 19) and Gary Freestone (2 for 8) dismissed the openers with just 11 on the board. This was followed by an inspired bowling change when the ever-youthful Malcolm Walker (2 for 5) clean bowled Buckby’s No.3 with a beautifully flighted delivery.

The visitor’s innings was by now in serious trouble and Ali Williams (2 for 19) continued the good work. The ground fielding was again excellent, without a dropped catch during the innings and Tony Marlow gleefully accepting both chances offered to him. Long before the time Rob Gomez (3 for 9) mopped up the tail, Buckby’s batting was in tatters. Extras (24) top scored as the Northamptonshire side capitulated, all out for just 65 from only 31 of their 45 overs.

Often, chasing a small target can create dressing room panic and Bowden have more than once failed to get over the finishing line when set a very modest target, but not today. Gary Waterfield (43) has begun the season in sparkling form and the return to the club of his fellow opener Fergus Kenny (22 not out) ensured that their was no embarrassment in the run chase. The only disappointment was when Waterfield was caught behind with the scores level which hastened Sam Gomez to the crease to support Kenny hitting the winning runs.

Sunday 19th April

Bowden C. C. v Medbourne CC

The pre-league season began for Bowden with a friendly fixture against near neighbours Medbourne on Sunday. On a perfect Spring afternoon, Bowden’s Captain, Rob Gomez won the toss and elected to field first.

It was the Bowden’s talented young bowlers, products of the excellent junior coaching set up at the Club, who were handed the new ball and the responsibility of getting amongst the early wickets. Medbourne started well, with Bowden old boy Steve Lilley crunching a couple of powerful boundaries before being undone and bowled by a beautiful late swinging delivery from Sam Keenan (1 for 22). Jack Ferguson (3 for 19) bowled with good pace and movement and was equally well rewarded in his two spells. Perhaps the pick of the young bowlers was Alistair Williams (2 for 15) with both movement through the air and off the pitch. His delivery to bowl Medbourne opener Clarke (45) was unplayable and another of the younger players, Sam Gomez (0 for 17) contributed well in the field with an excellent catch at point.

The Club’s more seasoned bowlers, Steve Bellamy (2 for 27); Tony Roberts (1 for 14) and Rob Gomez (0 for 8) also ensured that wickets fell regularly and the innings closed in the 39^th over with the score at 155 all out.

Bowden’s reply faltered at the start with the loss of two early wickets with just 14 runs on the board. Gary Waterfield (33) batted responsibly and despite a nasty injury to Chris Knowles who required hospital treatment after top edging a pull shot into his face, the innings began to build. Rob Gomez (34 not out) continued the momentum, but when Waterfield departed the lower middle order was unable to support Gomez and the innings petered out disappointingly, closing on 109 for 9 with Knowles still waiting patiently in A&E.

There were certainly positives from the first game of the season and the performance of the younger players bodes well for the League season, which begins this weekend with the 1^st XI travelling to Raunds in Division 3 of the Northants Cricket League and the 2^nd XI entertaining Long Buckby in Division 8.

Match Reports 2009

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