LLANIDLOES eased their basement fears with an 18 point haul courtesy of a winning draw at Mid Wales rivals Alberbury.
It was no less than the visitors deserved following a bright batting display which saw Llanidloes post 209 to chase.
“This result goes to show that we can compete with anyone on our day,” said Llanidloes skipper Rob Jones.
“Dave Williams and Dy
lan McPhee combined well and Marc Hughes was once again in fine form but there were good knocks down the order.”
Despite the early departure of Andrew Evans for 13 to a catch from Mike Crawshaw off Rob Owen the visitors soon found their rhythm.
A 60 run second wicket partnership between Dave Williams and recent signing Dylan McPhee saw Llanidloes build up their encouraging innings.
Williams (40) and McPhee (44) were both caught by Ollie Corbett off Andy Holloway (2-48) but Llanidloes retained their focus.
Rob Davies (28) and Marc Hughes (36no) pushed Llanidloes onto a challenging 209-6 to defend.
Alberbury were soon on the ropes after suffering a nightmare opening to their reply as Charles Bourne departed for five.
County star Mike Crawshaw was then run out by the sharp James Breeze as Llanidloes scented victory.
Mark Jones also failed to match the previous weekend’s exploits and was bowled by Rob Jones for 24.
Angus Little (33) and John Davies (31) frustrated the visiting attack but their departures signalled all hope of matching Llanidloes’ total.
The middle order failed to perform as Simon Jones (2-30) and Andrew Evans (2-18) left Alberbury’s tail-end hanging on for the draw.
It was left to the ninth wicket pairing of Steve Jarrett (1no) and Andy Holloway to dig in their heels and secure their side a share of the spoils.
The full article contains 303 words and appears in County Times Express newspaper.
