Last updated 13:31, Thursday, 07 August 2008

Tynedale 2nd XI travelled to Sacriston with just four players over the age of 18.

On what was a rain delayed shortened 30 over game, Tynedale skipper Graeme Fox inserted the home team on a wicket which was clearly still greasy and could assist the seamers.

Unfortunately the footing at the wicket ends made life hard work and opening bowlers Horncastle and Thomson struggled for consistency.

Opening batsmen Patterson took heavy toll on the bowling hitting the ball to the short boundary. Both he and Dixon moved the score along quickly, before the latter was bowled by Thomson for 14.

Fox joined the attack and managed to stem the flow of runs, removing Phillips for 49.

Hart had some late success claiming two wickets but Sacriston finished with the imposing total of 199.

Archer and Rainford opened the innings for Tynedale, both punishing anything of poor length or line. Archer this season has really matured as a batsmen and become a vital member of the team, despite his junior years.

Saturday was not his day, however, and having previously had back to back 50s, he was caught for 14.

Tynedale’s youngsters found that the experience of playing senior cricket can be a hard one at times.

Fox came and went, and Rainford was joined at the crease by Horncastle.

A game that looked all but over at half time took a dramatic turn, as the pair began to dismantle the Sacriston attack, smashing the ball to all parts of the ground.

The bowling simply didn't have an answer for the aggression and shot making ability of the duo, and Sacriston’s vociferous approach to the game subdued as the unlikely target came into view.

Eventually Rainford was caught for 90 off just 68 balls. His replacement Thomson went soon after, as did Hart and Pick.

The innings hinged on Horncastle and he duly delivered, smashing a four to seal victory with five balls to spare to end the game unbeaten with a superb 71.

The victory puts the second XI top of the table.

Thanks must go to the junior members of the team who may not always bat or bowl but are an integral part of any season.