Barrow Gurney Firsts are hoping for a better day against Long Ashton this Saturday after being on the losing end of an unusually low-scoring encounter last week at Hobbs Lane against Failand & Portbury.
Everything started promisingly enough as the Failand team collapsed to 100 all out in 27.5 overs, with paceman James Riley doing the bulk of the damage with 5 wickets for 32 in his 12 overs. Paul Glazzard provided excellent support with 12 overs 2 for 35.
Barrow would surely only have to bat time to overhaul the total. But the bowling attack gave nothing away and Sam Buckley’s 7 wicket haul meant few of the Barrow batsmen got going. Mick Hardy’s 23 not out was the only resistance as, despite batting 31.5 overs, Barrow could muster only 58 in reply.
It was fitting that Mick was the top-scorer as he was about to enjoy a surprise 60th birthday party in the pavilion which was attended by many family, friends, former and current players. Even the result could not dampen that special occasion.