Craig Ruscoe (pictured) starred with bat and ball to help lead Woore CC 1sts to victory over rivals Leycett, writes Roger Horwood.
The win means Woore are in second place on 228 points at the halfway stage of the season, a lead of 59 points on third placed Sandyford and 22 points behind leaders Bagnall Norton.
Visitors Leycett were skittled out for just 80 runs in 33 overs, despite winning the toss and electing to bat on another scorching day.
They were soon in trouble, losing their two openers for only 14 runs, promising youngster Matt Waller taking both wickets in an impressive spell of left arm swing bowling.
Because of his age (14) he was only allowed to bowl a five-over spell in one go and his figures of 2 for 3 were exceptional.
Only Darren Jones and Ryan Walker managed to score double figures (both 17) with spinner Tas Hussain (3-17 off 10) and Ruscoe (3-21 off 10) doing the damage.
In reply, a blistering opening stand of 62 destroyed the Leycett bowling and Woore knocked the runs off in little over 15 overs.
Ruscoe blasted his way to 34 while partner Aiden Cumberbatch (24) played some stylish shots.
It was an excellant team performance by Woore with some superb catches.
One taken wide and low at first slip by Andy Kenvyn dismissed ex Derbyshire and Leicestershire player Danny Redfern.
Meanwhile, Woore’s weakened 2nd XI paid the price with their ten men being well beaten by Hem Heath 4ths at Forsbrook.
The home team scored a rapid 185 off only 38 overs with opener Dean Hodson leading the assault with 48.
Usman Yaqub with 4-52 off 13 overs was the most successful wicket taker for Woore.
Veteran Andy Burton opening scored 22 but apart from Andy Jackson with 20 not out, the all round bowling performance of Hem Heath with three bowlers taking a couple of wickets each was too much and Woore were dismissed for 114 in 20 overs.
Although they drop to fifth place in League Division 6, Woore are hoping the 21-point gap to return to a promotion spot is within reach as they start the second half of the season.
Next Saturday (July 14) Woore 1sts are away at lowly Stafford (12.30pm start) and the 2nds are at home to Leycett 2nds (1pm)
Recent Comments