Newton Nicks It: Hollin’s Heroics Not Quite Enough in Away Defeat

It wasn't exactly the Great Escape at Newton this weekend, as the 1st XI suffered a rather bruising afternoon away from home. Despite a valiant effort to put some respectability on the scoreboard, Newton chased down our modest total with the kind of ruthless efficiency usually reserved for the Sunday roast. The day started in stuttering fashion, with the scoreboard gasping for air at 50 runs after 16 overs. However, Mike Hollin decided he wasn't going down without a fight. Mike played a blinder, smashing a gritty 62 including eleven boundaries that briefly silenced the local gentry. He shared a crucial 50-run stand with Aaron Bardsley to drag us to a final total of 126. It wasn't quite a fortress, but at least we gave them something to think about over tea. Sadly, Newton's openers weren't in a reflective mood. They tucked into our attack like it was an all-you-can-eat buffet, reaching their own half-century in under 10 overs. While we managed to prize out one solitary wicket, Andy Gleave anchored their chase with a polished fifty, and the hosts cruised home in the 25th over. We’ll lick our wounds and head back to the nets this week. On the bright side, at least we were back in the bar early enough to beat the rush!