13s defeated at Rugby 'B'

Having anticipated a free week, the 13s found themselves in action on Tuesday; this time away at Rugby ‘B’ who having arrived short were aided by players from the postponement of their A side.

Once again our keen and largely young 13s started well with the ball for having lost the toss they reduced their hosts to 9 for 4. Dannie Williams (1 for 7), Lucy Day (1 for 1) and Hayden Davies (1 for 6) all taking a wicket, the latter's wicket coming from a catch for Oliver Woodward on debut who also bowled well (0 for 10); the fourth wicket coming via a smart and calm bit of fielding work from Hammad Mirza resulting in a run out.

That could (should?) have easily been 10 for 5 with another [clear] run out this time not going their way shortly after. And Rugby took advantage of that with their surviving middle batter going on to retire at 25, another at 20, and another adding 16.
A good catch from Lucy Day gave Andrew McCormack (1 for 9) just reward for another good spell of bowling as Rugby went onto close at 139 for 5; extras again high totalling 62!

In reply, Willoughby saw Dannie lead the way with the bat as wickets gradually fell around him. Tom Board stuck around well and nudged a few runs which was good to see, as did Lucy before she was unfortunate and perhaps harshly run out with player and umpire blocking her way to the crease. Dannie departed to a questionable LBW having made an excellent 21 but returned to partner Andrew for the last wicket as they frustrated Rugby by seeing the final overs out.

Willoughby closed their innings on 94 for 9, 45 runs short of the target which sounds a lot but in reality was not that far away, especially had a couple of things gone their way along with a few improvements to the team’s all-round game.

But the team are coming along week by week, getting to know each other more and more on and off-the-field, and playing the game the right way which is great to see.

Next training – Sunday 30th May: 10:00 to 11:30 am.

Next game – Tuesday 8th June: home v Barby Under 13s.