Willoughby CC travelled to Mears Ashby in high spirits following their opening day victory over Wellingborough Town. After navigating long grass and the occasional rabbit hole, the side arrived ready for the challenge ahead.

Inserted to bat first, Willoughby found conditions far from straightforward. A pitch offering variable bounce made it difficult for batters to settle, and partnerships proved hard to come by. At the drinks interval, Willoughby were 104/5, with Dave Alcock the standout performer, compiling a well-made 47 and showing the application required on a tricky surface.

The innings was then revived superbly by last week’s hero Ceri Roberts, who once again demonstrated his class. He was joined by Ryan “Bomb Squad” Haynes, who took the attack to the opposition in emphatic fashion. The pair shifted the momentum with an excellent partnership, Roberts making 72 and Haynes a powerful 61,as Willoughby recovered strongly to post a competitive 233 from 39 overs.

During the interval, spirits remained high, with even some light-hearted chatter filtering through from elsewhere about back to back quakers, but attention soon turned back to the task at hand.

Mears Ashby began their chase aggressively, riding their luck early and taking the game to Willoughby inside the first 10 overs. Their positive intent put immediate pressure on the bowling attack. The breakthrough came courtesy of Joe Oliver, who removed the dangerous opener for a blistering 61 from just 24 balls, thanks to a fine catch from Ceri Roberts. Skipper Ben Hollis soon accounted for the other opener to keep Willoughby in the contest.

Further wickets were shared between Stuart Bonthuys and Dave Alcock as Willoughby battled hard to regain control. However, on a surface that offered something for everyone, Mears Ashby showed confidence and composure, capitalising on any loose deliveries and maintaining the required rate.

In the end, Willoughby’s total of 233 proved just short, as Mears Ashby chased it down with seven wickets down and five overs to spare.
It was an entertaining game of cricket played in good spirit, ultimately decided by fine margins. While there are a few “what ifs,” Willoughby will take plenty of positives and look to bounce back stronger.

Next up, Willoughby return to The Green, where they will look for a response as they host Long Buckby—hopefully under sunnier skies.