U12s v Horsley & Send

The U12s produced a great performance on Sunday morning against Horsley & Send, but it was not quite enough to beat a very strong side packed with district players. Barring the result, it was undoubtedly the best team performance seem from the Effingham side and there was no shame in losing out in this close game.

There is no doubt that Horsley will challenge Esher for the title, and their bowling attack seemed to have no weaknesses. Jake Raffaelli (9) was unable to get on top of the impressive Ben Reid, a former Effingham colt, as he was bowled fairly early on. Aryan Chadasama (10) and William Burbidge (12) found it tough going but worked hard to put together a vital partnership and put some runs on the board. Aryan was given a harsh LBW decision, whilst William was bowled trying to up the run rate. Raymond Wing (25) came into perhaps play one of his best innings to date. Although he was still able to play his free-flowing game, he did this with a little more control than usual in a mature knock. Thomas Stratten only lasted 4 balls before a sharp delivery took his stumps, but Isaac Keay (7) and Sam Cobb (15) kept the momentum going before Isaac stuck the ball nicely only to be caught at mid-off. Horsley brought back on their best bowlers for the finish, but Sam C and Ollie Nicoll (10*) did not disappoint producing some lovely shots to take us to 116-7 which pleased the home spectators.

Effingham knew that their decent total would count for nothing if they did not produce a disciplined fielding and bowling performance. With only 5 wides conceded, the boys excelled themselves, and perhaps the only thing missing were more wicket taking balls. Thomas Stratten for the second match running was the pick of the bowlers taking an early wicket in his figures of 1-6. Jake and William also took wickets, with the latter recovering well from a wobbly first over. Horsley, however showed their class, and at no time felt the need to go out on full attack. What they did was to take quick singles with some excellent backing up and anticipation, and this was certainly evident with their match winning partnership between Reid and Harris at the end reaching their target of 117-3. Ben Reid was lucky though to survive a direct throw from Thomas, with his foot crossing the crease as the stumps were broken.

Darren Wing