Willoughby 2nds vs Northampton Saints 3rds

A sunny day greeted the 2nds to the trip to Bugbrooke for a early top of the table clash with Northampton Saints.

Saints won the toss and stuck us in and the opening spell caused concern as we were reduced to 13 for 3 in the 5th over. It took a steady and resilient 100 partnership from Jake Quinney and Martin Nichols to bring back some stability to proceedings, Saints attempting to try different options, then bring back the openers to force a wicket. In the 28th over it finally came at 113 for 4, then 113 for 5, both Nichols (39) and Quinney (27) departing in quick succession. With wickets in hand the middle and lower order progressed the innings towards the 40th over, Goss ran out for 21. The innings ending 168 for 9. Litchfield the pick of the bowling with 5 for 45.

Saints started off steadily spearheaded by Litchfield. With 1 wicket for Moor in the opening 15 overs things were on the edge at 52 for 1. A bowling change of Fergus Deery and Michael Deery proved pivotal as Mike Deery dismissed Litchfield for 29, a cluster of wickets followed at regular intervals. The only resistance being a bludgeoning knock from Austin (34) the only thing keeping the win at bay. Fergus Deery being underestimated with some flight and guile to record figures of 6 for 33. Mike Deery 2 for 25. The Saints innings finishing on 120 all out.