Barrow Gurney Under 15s reached the Cup Semi-Final with a 15 run victory over Blagdon. Batting first on an idyllic sunny evening at Barrow, Bernie Forge and Guy Fisher followed up their 99 opening partnership in the previous round at Flax Bourton, with a steady 34 before Guy fell for 18. Bernie batted solidly supported by Fraser Thomas (13) before falling for 29 trying to accelerate the run rate.
Louis Bockock-Grace (11) and Mark Fisher (12*) made the most of the last few overs with Louis picking up a ball on his legs and hitting it almost into the scorers’ hut for 6. Barrow finished on 106-6 after their 20 overs as a young Blagdon team stuck to their task and gave up few extras. Arrowsmith taking 3 for 23.
Blagdon were soon struggling as Fraser and Mark both took early wickets, but they rallied in the middle overs due to a good innings by Lowe (20*) and Barrow giving away a few too many wides. Captain Kieran Owen (1/16) regained some control whilst Louis chipped in with 1/22. The run out of Tovey slowed Blagdon’s scoring rate just when it seemed they might get their target, before opening bowlers Fraser (1/8) and Mark (2/12) came back and ensured they fell short.
This is the third successive win for the Under 15s under Lee Bryant’s stewardship and takes Barrow to a semi-final against either Cleeve or Bedminster in two weeks time.