Failand and Portbury CC v Twyford House CC


Twyford House won the toss and decided to bat, Ahmad(2for33) opened the bowling for Failand against a very strong Twyford team Domanic Blake(68) lead the way for Twyford and then Patrick Bagge(43) but with some good bowling from Jagarth Arachige(3for17) Tony Lippe(2for26) Maurice Perl(2for36) and Sam Gunarathne(0for18 off 8 overs) aided buy some excellent catching from Simon Bachelor(3) Sam Gunarathne(2) Tony Lippe(1) and John Skinner(1) restricted Twyford to 206 for 9.

Teas were supplied by Pam and Maggie and they were delicious, home made cakes and tasty sandwiches went down a treat.

After tea the clouds were building and the temperature lowered extra sweaters were required Sam Gunarathne(57) and Jordan Bachelor(30) opened the batting for Failand and put on 91 off 17 overs shortly after Sam got out and with the score still on 91 it was left with Tony Lippe(37) throwing the bat and with wickets falling rapidly at the other end this meant that when Tony was out with the score on 140 Twyford's score of 206 was enough and Failand finished on 159 for 8 with the D/L method not required so Twyford won by 47 runs.

Twyford House and their supporters enjoyed a friendly pint in the club house after the match and agreed that they would like to come back again next year and play us.


John Skinner - 12/09/2011

Axbridge CC v Failand and Portbury CC


Axbridge CC play at a very pretty ground at Allerton CC on the Somerset Levels. Skip lost the toss and Axbridge skip put Failand into bat on a green pitch. John Meredith(8) opened with Sam Gunarathne(9) and when Sam was out with the score on 14 it was going to be a uphill battle against some very accuarate bowling at 62 for 6 things did not look good but the score of 120 all out was achieved only when the tail wagged Jagarth Arachige(14no) Ivor CHivers(12) and Finley Chivers(12) with extras 47.

After a very nice tea of some scrumtous home made cakes and scones Axbridge started there innings. The rain clouds where now building and Jagarth(2for8) opened the bowling down the hill and with Axbridge on 38for2 after 16 overs the game was in the balance but the spin twins John Meredith(1for36) and Maurice Perl(1for 22) kept Failand in with a chance but some big hitting from Kevin Grinstead(20) and Ben Peverall(29no) took the score to 95 for 4 off 26 overs, the light faded and the rain was pouring down the game was agreed to be abandoned.

The game was played in a friendly manner and we all went to the Lamb Inn at Axbridge to talk over what might have been.



Friendly Skip.




John Skinner - 05/09/2011

Nailsea over 40 v Failand and Portbury SundayXI


keith Parsons Nailsea Captain was playing his last game for Nailsea CC so it was fitting that it was against Failand and Portbury CC as we have had many hard fought games over the years but always played in a very good spirit.

Nailsea won the toss and decided to bat and with Failand taking the honours early on with Maurice Perl(4for28) and John Meredith(2for33) Nailsea were reeling on 155 for 8 off 35 overs but A.Weaver(23no) and C.Thackery(42no) took the score to 227 for 9 with extras being the top score of 45runs.

A very good tea was provided by the Nailsea team with lots of home made cakes and strawberries.

Failand started there innings but could not get any momentum going with good accurate bowling from A.Proctor(3for9) and Ray Perrin(2for24) John Skinner(20) Ivor Chivers(19no) and Finley Chivers(11no) were the only ones to get double figures and finished on a very disapointing 88 for 9 after 40 overs.

After the game we all wished Keith all the best over a few pints of beer.


John Skinner - 15/08/2011

Failand and Portbury v Bill Owens XI



On a warm misty afternoon Skip went out to the middle with Bill Owen to toss the coin skip won so decided to bat. Sam Gunarathne(46) and John Meredith(26) opened the innings and put on a brisk 61 off 11overs when Sam was out John was joined by Sujith Perea(27) who was guesting for Failand they then took the score to 104 after 20 overs. When Sujith was out a cluster of wickets fell but for Paul Bachelor(18) and a cameo from Ivor Chivers(25no) which took the score to 175 for 9 A special mention to Finley Chivers(4no) who hit a 4 with his first and last ball of the innings which was decisive.

A mouth watering tea made by Pam Sandra Sheila and Maggie was enjoyed by the home and away teams.

C.Gwyther(23) and Bill Owen(12) opened the innings and put on 29 for the first wicket then Bill with R.Huchinson(34) put on 51 when the dangerous R.Huchinson was brilliant run out by Sujith Perea with a direct hit from the boundary which was the match winning moment and so with all the spinners that's Sam Gunarathne(3for17) Sujith Perea(1for26) Maurice Perl(1for34) and John Meredith(1for19) took the finish to a very exciting end which Failand won by 4 runs Bill OwensXI 172 for 8.


John Skinner - 01/08/2011

Grittleton CC v Failand and Portbury CC



Failand Skip lost the toss and was put into bat on a drying wicket and with the sun out the pitch was drying out nicely. The Bachelors Simon(34) and Paul(7) opened the innings and put on 33 for the first wicket then Sam Gunarathne(21) and Simon Bachelor took the score to 72 when Simon was out and then Sam with the score on 73 the innings soon came to a close With some disputable decisions the 10 men of Failand's innings ended on 103.

Tea was taken with some lovely homemade choclate and coffee cakes which was the

highlight of the afternoon.



Grittleton started their innings off with M.Stanford(25) and M.Wood(16) but after Sam caught Standford off Ahmad the Failand bowlers John Meredith(3for22) and Sam Gunarathne(2for15) had a tight rein on them but Gritteton reached the target after 30.5 overs in truth Failand did not get enough runs 150 would have been a good score.

The possitives were 15 year old Harry Billing bowled and fielded well and Phil Dungey made a guest appearance for Failand.


John Skinner - 25/07/2011

Failand and Portbury CC Sunday XI v Cleeve Blue Flame Friendly XI



On a dull dank wet Sunday afternoon when the toss of the coin was crucial Cleeve won and put Failand into bat. The only highlight for Failand was Mitch Francuz(28) with a sparkling top score innings of 28 runs after several stoppages for rain failand were all out for 94 runs.

After a well prepared tea which Pam Sandra Sheila and Maggie prepared.

Failand went out to field. C. Smolden(30no) and Rich Poole(42) scored the most runs for Cleeve getting to the target of 96 for 2 off 17.1 overs. The positives for Failand was that they had four 15 year olds in there team which brought the average age to 40 I must say they all fielded and bowled and Batted very well.


John Skinner - 18/07/2011

back

Gordano Valley CC v Failand and Portbury CC



Failand won the toss and decided to bat on a very good looking pitch. Ed. Humphreys(71retired out) and John Meredith(23) put on 102 and after 20 overs Ed. decided to retire and give the rest of the team a bat and this is where the wheels came off, Failand could only muster another 55 of which Roman Lagnardo(25) and Steve Down(15)made the most contribution. The bowling stars for Gordano were Joe Eizenberg(3for21 off 8 overs) and Ross Hale(4for4 off 2 overs).

Gordano started solidly with Ross Hale(39) and Mike Bostock(41) a stand of 79, Five wickets fell in all but in truth Failand just did not get enough runs Paul Duffy did finish with 2for18 and Godano got 161 after 38 overs.

A good game of cricket played in a very friendly way.






John Skinner - 11/07/2011

Frampton on Severn CC v Failand and Portbury CC


Another warm and sunny day in the beautiful setting of Frampton on Severn on the green, out side of The Bell Inn this being the longest green in England. Failand Skip won the Toss and decided to bat. The local rules being that as the green is narrow four flags were put out on each side of the green and only 2 runs could be scored along the ground and only 4 runs if cleared over the tarmac surface on the inside of the flags and outside of the flags normal cricket rules applied.

Sam Gunarathe(104) and Stuart Fowell(20) opended the batting and put on 61 runs off of 15 overs Sam batted until the 31st when the score was 157 and the final score finished on 181 all out extras(22) being the next highest score.

After tea Frampton started with Liam O'neill(90no) and D. Tate(20) they put on 64 for the first wicket after 11 overs but some good bowling from Maurice Perl(2for40) off 8 overs and Sam Gunarathne(2for36) off 8 overs held the Frampton team at bay for a while but Liam saw them to 184 off 32 overs with well hit 90not out.

Sam Gunarathne and Liam O'Neill were equal men of the match with some excellent batting which kept the spectators in the pub on their toes as the ball kept flying into the pub garden. A good afternoon of cricket was enjoyed by all with a welcome pint after the game in the Frampton Pavillion.


John Skinner - 04/07/2011

Congresbury C.C. v Failand and Portbury C.C.



Paul Bachelor scored 32 runs



This was a perfect day for cricket with the temperature nearly 30 degrees c and with relief the Failand skip won the toss and batted. The bowling was tight and the scoring was slow Paul Bachelor(32) and Ivor Chivers(7) opened the batting Paul was out in the 31st over with the score on 76 John Skinner(20) joined Mitch Francuz(56no) to bring some respectablity to the score they put on 64 in just over 8 overs to bring the score to 142 for 4.

After tea the star for congresbury James Vowles(84) only 14 years old almost won the game single handedly but a good ball from Paul Duffy caught behind by Ivor Chivers saw James out for a good 84 only 16 short of a century. Congresbury reached the target in 31 overs but for some tight bowling from Sajjad(1for19 of 8) and John Meredith(1for22 of 8)the score would have been achieved much sooner.

Failand will have taken away some positives from the game another fifty from 15 year old Mitch Francuz and Tom Hill bowled 3 overs with out any pain so with this to build on for our next game which is at the lovely ground of Frampton on Severn.

Wedmore C.C.v Failand and Portbury C.C.



At last the weather was good for a game of cricket Failand and Portbury SundayXI travelled to Wedmore Skip, won the toss and with the pitch being a little damp decided to let Wedmore bat first. Wedmore started off scoring at nearly 8 runs an over untill the spin twins came on Maurice Perl(4for41) and John Meredith(3for37) and with good catches taken by Mitch Francuz(1) John Skinner(1) and Ivor Chiver(1) and a stumping got Wedmore out for 147 off 31.4 overs.

After tea Paul Bachelor(11) and Steve Down(18) open the batting and put on a steady 36 for 1 after 11 overs but the star of the match Mitch Francuz(63not out) with 11 4's won the game for Failand and Portbury after 38 overs. For Wedmore 14 year old Josh Burgess(5for23) nearly won the game for Wedmore how ever it was a very enjoyable game and it was good to see all the young players contibuting to the game.

John Skinner - 20/06/2011

Portishead CC V Failand and Portbury CC


Failand and Portbury batted first on a very windy but sunny afternoon, Paul Bachelor(29) opened with Stuart Fowell(4) but after Stuart hitting his first ball for 4 was then out bowled in the second over. John Meredith(25) came in and put together with Paul a stand of 59 runs but this was off the 22 overs. Then Ivor Chivers(57no) came in with just 15 overs to go and scored a sparkling 57 not out and with John Skinner(14) batting at number 7 but on 51 runs for the 6th wicket which took the score up to a respectable 168 for 7.



After tea Portishead got off to a flyer scoring at 9 runs an over with father and son Pete Savoury(83no) and ollie Savoury(39) ,but when the skip brought the spin twins on Maurice Perl(2for35) and John Meredith(1for23) the game was in the balance but no matter how hard they tried we could not get Peter out and his 83not out was a match winning innings. Failand had some positives from the game in that new player Ahmad(0for36) bowled and fielded well and Mitch francuz(0for15) is showing some promise with his leg break bowling.


John Skinner - 23/05/2011

Failand and Portbury C.C. v BBC Allstars C.C.

The Stars were Matthew Kendrick For F.and P. and Damian Derrick for the BBC.

On a very windy but sunny day and a damp wicket the BBC skip decided to but Failand and Portbury into bat. Paul Bachelor(13) and with Stuart Fowell(28) which was Stuart's highest score so far for Failand and Portbury put on 35 for the first wicket then Matthew Kendrick(91no) the star of the show for Failand put on 60 with Mitch Francuz(27) and then a stand of 76 with John Skinner(18) took the score to a respectable 208 for 5.

Another delicious tea provided by Pam Sandra and Sheila with scones and strawberries.



With the Failand team well fed they went out to field feeling that we could win this game but the BBC had other idea's. No wicket fell untill the BBC had put on 100 for the first wicket with D. Lawry(52) run out by Sam Gunarathne the next wicket was another run out a good throw from Rhodri Morgan. Mitch Francuz(1for15) took his first wicket for the club bowling Dave Passmore(16) and so the BBC Allstars scored 210 for 3 in 35 overs.

There was some good positives for Failand Matthew Kendrick with 91no very unlucky not to score a 100 and with Stuart Fowell 28 Mitch Francuz 27 and his first wicket for the club show that we can build on this for our next game.

Special mention for Keith Greenidge who umpired the 2nd innings.

Both teams enjoyed a very friendly game of cricket and then discussed the game over a few beers in the club house.








John Skinner - 09/05/2011

Sam Gunarathne and John Skinner start the new season in fine fashion

The Third xi had a practice match against Spye Park played in unusually warm April weather. Failand were able to give games to five debutants, although due to excess players, Sudesh Rajan played for the opposition. Failand won the toss and decided to bat first. After a soft dismissal for opener Skinner, Himansu Swain and Sam Gunaratne set off in a blistering fashion, scoring 83 in 11 overs for the second wicket before Himansu was bowled by his pal Sudesh for 40, Sam Gunarathne scored a fne 50 before retiring. A mid-order collapse ensued before Jeff Astle and Lyndon Prendergast gave Failand a decent total of 215.

Jane Pursey supplied the tea, which included seasonal treats such as Hot Cross Buns, Easter Biscuits and mini eggs.

Spye Park lost wickets regularly, but it was John Skinner that led the way for Failand with 3 wickets bowling up the hill. This was an exceptional performance by John, who bowled 8 overs straight off, even more so as he probably didn,t relise he would even be required to bowl until the game commenced. John would have taken the man of the match award if it were not for Sam Gunarathne who followed his 50 with 5 wickets. Stuart Fowell took two late wickets before Jagath Arachchne dismissed guest Spye Parkonian Sudesh Rajan for 62.

In the end this was a closer game than otherwise predicted, largely thnks to Sudesh swinging his bat to great success.

Other debutants Matt Kendrick bowled two overs and fielded well, whilst Naveen Vippula kept wicket competently for 34 overs before Lyndon decided it was time for himself to take over.

If just we could bank on April weather like this every year.

Bristol C.C. Too strong for Failand's ten men.


This was a cold and cloudy day in late September when Sunday skip went out to the middle with Bristol's skip and loss the toss again and was asked to field first.
Failand with only 10 men of which 9 were over 40 did a very good job in keeping the Bristol score to 219 for 9 with Tony Lippe(3for36) Phil Dungey(2for30) and Sam Gunarathne(2for29) and with good wicket keeping from Ivor Chivers with 2 catches and no byes. However the star for Bristol was G.Brown(75) who held their innings together.
Failand went out to bat with Sam Gunarathne(34) and Tony Lippe(26) but the star and man of the match for Bristol C.C. was A.Williams(7for13 off just 4.5 overs).
This was a mismatch of a game which is hard to understand as this should have had the support of the 1st team players that's if Failand and Portbury C.C. continue to have these very strong fixtures.
John Skinner - 19/09/2010

Another mismatch as Street are far too strong for Failand and Portbury Friendly side.


Skip Lost the toss and Street C.C. batted first leading the way for them was A.Bartlett(71no) B.Hill(61) S.Frost(58) and K.Wall(47). John Meredith(2for48 off 8 overs) for Failand bowled his slow right hand spin with skill and accuracy to keep an air of respectablity to the score but in truth the batting and running between the wickets was too good for Failand and Portbury.
After our final mouth watering tea for the season provided by Pam Sandra and Sheila which was the highlight of the game.
Failand and Portbury tried to chase down a massive 276 runs with Steve Down(58) and Tony Lippe(56) giving it a go but in the end it was just too many runs to get with A.Barlett(3for12 off 8 overs) and L.Ward(1for23 off 8 overs) were the best of the bowlers for Street. Failand was just out batted bowled and fielded finishing on 206 for 6. Seventy runs short.
Never mind there's always next season.

Friendly Skip.



John Skinner - 13/09/2010

Bristol C.C. v Failand and Portbury C.C.


Failand and Portbury managed to get a team together thanks to Monty Desai who got four of his friends from the Bristol Indians to play against a strong Bristol C.C.
Skip lost the toss and Bristol batted first with Durrans(62) and Richens(55) leading the way for Bristol but some good fielding and bowling from John Meredith(2for31) off 8 overs Maurice Perl(1for35) off 7 overs John Skinner with a towering catch to get rid of the dangerous Durrans(62) and Ivor Chivers with a Stumping and some very good out fielding from the Bristol Indians managed to hold them down to a final score of 214 for 4 off 40 overs.
After a tummy filling tea which included apple pie and ice cream Failand and Portbury started their innings, with Moon(32) and Shail(31) being the highest scores and the game finished with Failand getting 164 all out.
The game was played in a very good spirit and with another fixture with Bristol in 3 weeks time lets hope that we can get a team together that can take them to the wire.
Friendly Skip.

Backwell/Flax Bourton v Failand and Portbury


Dan Chapman scored 20 runs

After very heavy rain on Saturday night the likelyhood of playing cricket on Sunday looked very unlikely. However the sun shone and on Sunday afternoon all the teams arrived at the pretty ground of Flax Bourton in very sunny and warm conditions.
The toss was won by Failand's freindly skip and he decided to bat with Paul Bachelor(22) Dan Chapman(20) Tony Lippe(14) and star of the innings Simon Bachelor(57) got the score up to 140 which we thought would not be enough on a wicket that was drying out.
After tea Tony Lippe(3for13) opened the bowling with Phil Dungey(1for16) this got Failand into a strong position infact all the bowlers did well Paul Duffy(2for33) Maurice Perl(3for29) and John Meredith(1for9) but most pleasing of all was all the excellent catches that were taken Paul Bachelor(2) John Skinner(1) Tony Lippe(1) Paul Duffy(1) caught and bowled Stuart Fowell(1) his first catch for Failand and Portbury and Ivor Chivers(2) the first being the best of the lot a diving 1 handed catch off Tony Lippe which was a very magical moment which will live long in the memories of the Failand and Portbury's minds. Backwell/Flax Bourton were bowled out for 102 in 31.4 overs. The game was played in a very good spirit and it was agreed that a fixture for next year would be arranged.

Friendly Skip

John Skinner - 23/08/2010

Failand and Portbury Sunday XI v Nailsea Sunday XI


A Total mismatch as Nailsea win by a massive 225 runs

This was a total mismatch as Nailsea amassed a total of 324ao and Failand and Portbury could only muster 99 for 6. The highlight for the afternoon for the home team was the mouth watering tea that was provided by Pam Sandra Sheila and Maggie.
Nailsea with 6 first teamers batted first and M.Barnes(62) and J.Tucker(61) and with most of the other batsmen scoring heavily amassed a huge total of 324ao. For Failand and Portbury Tony Lippe (3for25) bowled well as did Phill Dungey(3for32) with all the other bowlers being thrashed to all parts of the ground.
Failand and Portbury's inning's started badly with Paul Bachelor being bowled for naught then Tony Lippe(30) and Steve Down(20) put on 47 and with John Meredith(19no) and the 3 14 year old's Mitch Francuz(6) Finley Chivers(4) and Harry Billing(8no) made sure Failand were not all bowled out.

Friendly Skip.
John Skinner - 16/08/2010

Failand and Portbury C.C. v Taunton St Andrews C.C.


This was a match best forgotten by Failand and Portbury Sunday XI as Taunton St Andrews scored a massive 355 for 3 with J.Poole (100Retd. out) Lloyd Alley(101Retd.out) and T.Chandler(60) The Tea was the high light of the afternoon provided by Pam Sandra and Sheila.

John Meredith(20) and Steve Down(4) started the Failand reply and with Sam Gunarathne(36)with four 4's and three 6's started to make some inroads into this massive total but when Sam was out and with the middle order failing it was left to the tail to wag with Tom Hill(25) his highest score for the club Ivor Chivers(17) and Phil Dungey(21) who hit a 6 and said "I don't hit many of those". Failand finished on a respectable 155ao.
Lets hope the Sunday XI can pick themselves up from this for next week against a Nailsea Sunday XI.

Friendly Skip.
John Skinner - 09/08/2010

Failand and Portbury v Bill Owens XI


It was agreed by both captains that as Failand and Portbury had 12 players that when Failand batted only 11 would bat and when fielding only eleven players would field, changing every 10 overs. Bill lost the toss and skip decided to bat. With Paul Bachelor(42) and Steve Down(37) opening the innings put on 95 after only 13 overs which got Failand off to a flyer and then Sam Gunarathne(69) continued to keep the pressure on and after 30 overs with 177 on the board it looked like Failand would pass there best score(254) but with some good bowling and fielding Bill Owens XI restricted Failand to 226 for 6.
After a mouth watering tea which Pam Sandra Shiela and Maggy produced Failand took to the field with as agreed 11 players with Paul Bachelor resting for the first 10.
Skip was not sure if his team had enough runs telling all the bowlers to bowl a good line and length and Phill Dungey(1for13) did exactly that with some go catching by Ivor Chivers(2) Steve Down(2) and 14 years old Harry Billing(1) all the bowlers Finley Chivers(0for23) Tom Hill(2for36) Harry Billing(2for13) and the spin twins at the end John Meredith(2for37) and Maurice Perl(3for 33)bowled Bill Owens XI out for 189 leaving there best bat N. Sara stranded on 72 not out.
A good win in which all the players had made a contribution and in the bar after all the dust had settled it was agreed that it was a very enjoyable friendly game of cricket enjoyed by both teams so much so that Paul and Bill was fixing up next years fixture.

Friendly Skip.
John Skinner - 02/08/2010

Congresbury C.C. v Failand and Portbury C.C.


On a fresh sunny afternoon Failand won the toss and batted first. Paul bachelor (75) with his best score for many seasons opened the batting and lead the attack to the Congresbury bowlers hitting a magnificent 14 4's and with Sam Gunarathne(42) got the score up to 188 for 8 and after a fine tea Failand took to the field. With Phil Dungey (1 for 21) and Harry Billing (1 for 21) opening the bowling and after 12 overs put the Failand team into a strong position with Congresbury 45 for 2. With more good bowling from Paul Duffy (1 for 27 off 8 overs) Maurice Perl(2 for 37) and John Meredith(2 for 36) who was on a hatrick ball, but we still kept the field spread as Congresbury only needed 7 to win off the last over and they got the 189 needed to win with one ball to spare. A very good game of friendly Cricket was enjoyed by all.

Friendly Skip

Failand and Portbury friendly XI v Cleeve Blue Flame


A Feast of runs at Failand.

Skip lost the toss but amazingly was asked to bat, with Ed Humphreys(102 retired no) leading the way steve Down(59) and Sam Gunarathne(94no) who was batting at the end with young Mitchell Francuz(6no) who's Mum and Dad were there watching him help to take Failand and Portbury's score to a very respectable 287 for 2.
The teas were provided by Pam Sandra and Sheila which were excellent once again and it was noted that Maurice Perl said that if the Skip won the toss we were to field first as he wanted to eat more of the cakes at tea time.

After tea the Cleeve Blue Flame players set about the Failand bowlers right from the start with M. Budd(79) C. Smoldon(56) and J.Pinkley(62) for Cleeve Blue Flame. Who achieved their target 288 for 6 with 3 overs to spare.
The ony highlight for Failand and Portbury was a very high catch taken on the boundary by young Mitchell Francuz to dismiss the dangerous P. Bryant(39)

Friendly Skip.

John Skinner - 19/07/2010

Abbots Lee called off.
Abbotts lee cried off lots, of failand players felt like crying and another game missed how are the players ever going to find any form if they cant play.

Failand and Portbury C.C. v Wobblescroft Wanderers

[The material here has been designated not up to the Club's required standards and removed. It may be replaced with other informative yet amusing new material in due course.]

Marvin Straightjacket OBE

Site Supremo

Resounding win for Failand and Portbury against Wedmore.


On a perfect day for cricket Skip went out to toss and Wedmore won and decided to field much to the delight of the Sunday Skip.
John Meredith(19) and Steve Down(14) opened the batting and with a steady start 14 for 1 after 5 overs then 24 for 2 after 12 overs (steady!!) brought young Mitch Francuz(19) to the crease who was run out after a very bright 19 runs with four 4's at 61 for 3 Scott Meredith(47) soon put his mark on the game but John Skinner(57) ran him out and then decided to take the Wedmore bowlers on with eleven 4's in a bright 57 and with Ivor Chivers(13no) took the score to 201 when John was out with one ball to go.
After a scumptous tea put on by Pam Sheila Sandra, Maggie Failand went out to field with Phil Dungey (3for26) who opened the bowling from the bottom end and Finley Chivers ( 1for32) from the top end who is just 14 years old gave Failand a great start with 4 wickets then on came the spin twins John Meredith (2for19) and Maurice Perl (3for22) brilliant catches from Steve Down(1) especially Mitch Francuz(1) 14 year old John Meredith(1) and Ivor Chivers behind the stumps 2 catches and a stumping. This gave a resounding win for Failand and Portbury by 96 runs.

Friendly Skip.

John Skinner - 21/06/2010

The weather saved Failand and Portbury at Grittleton.


Failand batted first and Scott Meredith(49) and Steve down(24) did try to give us a reasonable score but 138 ao did not seem to be enough runs and in the 17th over the rain came and saved Failand from a certain defeat with Grittleton on 67 for 1 after 17 overs. The teams went to the Neeld Arms for a pint and a chat about what might have been.

http://www.neeldarms.co.uk/#/the-bar/4540400686

Friendly Skip
John.
Paul Bachelor prepares to get padded up

A run feast at Lympsham with over 500 runs scored


Ed Humphreys(100no)and Fraser Jamieson(100no) with a partnership of 229 wins the game for Failand and Portbury.
On a dry and sunny afternoon and a good wicket Skip lost the toss and Lympsham decided to bat and with Jamie Howson(157no) for Lympsham who after retiring on a 100no and coming back to score another 57no gave Lympsham 253 for 9 for Failand to chase. Starring for Failand and Portbury with the ball was the spin twins John Meredith(4for 22) and Maurice Perl(4for65) managed to keep some respectablity to the score. After tea a magnificent 229 run partnership between Ed. Humphreys(100no) and Fraser Jamieson(100no) set the game up for a Failand and Portbury win.
A truely run feast with 3 players scoring 100's not out was a credit to the Lympsham C.C. groundsman and with over 500 runs scored proved to be hard work for the faster bowlers.

Sunday Skip
John Skinner - 07/06/2010

Spyepark C.C. v Failand and Portbury C.C.


Played on a Sticky Wicket.

Spyepark batted first but after 8 overs a huge black cloud decended upon us and it poured with rain for about 45 mins. After a cup of tea and the rain stopped we decided to start again with a reduced overs of 30 per team. Spyepark finished with 176 for 4 after 30 overs C.Earl (61) and D. Baker (71) Phil Dungey bowled well 8 overs for 4 for 41 for Failand but this does not tell the whole story as there were many catches dropped and a couple of run outs missed. After tea Failand batted but with the wicket drying out it became more difficult to bat and with John Skinner (21)not out carrying his bat Failand lost but not with out a fight to complete the 30 overs finishing on 88 for7.

John Skinner - 26/04/2010

SUNDAY SKIPS FINAL REPORT FOR 2009


The season started unexpectedly on Sunday 26th April against a team from Wiltshire, Spypark CC. We lost this game and this unfortunately was the trend for the rest of the season.

We completed 13 games of 40 overs each and won 2 and lost 11. However, we played one game against Cleeve Blue Flame CC which was played mostly in the rain and it was decided that we won it on the Duckworth/Lewis rule having scored at a faster rate.

Thanks again to all the players who played on a Sunday for their support during the season and also a special thank you to the tea ladies, Pam, Sandra, Sheila and Wendy who produced some mouth watering teas.

With your support I intend to stand again next season and hopefully to encourage some young cricketers to play in the Sunday side.

To conclude my report can I recommend that the fixtures for the Sunday XI next season look to playing more sides like Wedmore CC and Winford CC as the strength of these teams are more at our level.

This said, I look forward to another great season in 2010.

Thank you everyone for your support.

John Skinner
Captain, Sunday Friendly XI Side

Failand and Portbury C.C. v Street C.C.
Sept 13th 2009

Failand were beaten by some very good Streetwise bowling
The toss was won again by Sunday Skip and with a good sunhine afternoon decided to bat first. With some very tight bowling from Street Failand managed to muster 149 for 8 with only Tony Lippe (40) being top score.

After another mouth watering tea provided by Pam Sandra and Sheila Failand took to the field looking to make the Street batsmen struggle and with some good bowling by Phil 'Bolognese' Dungey Tony Lippe Simon Bachelor and some good catches especically the one hander by John Meredith made the Street batsmen struggle a bit and if one or two more catches had been taken it might have been a different story and with one more game to go lets hope for some good weather to finish the season on next Sunday.

Friendly Skip.
John Skinner - 14/09/2009

Malpas ease to 9 wicket victory

Malpass to good for Failand and Portbury
Friendly xi v Malpass - Sept 6th 2009
Failand won the toss and decided to bat scoring 217 for 5 with Ed. Humphreys staring with the bat scoring 81 and D Griffiths taking 3 for 33 for Malpass.
after a mouth watering tea provided by Pam Sandra and Sheila Malpass. set about the
failand score and with A Ross scoring 104 not out and J Perrett 75 they passed the total in less than 35 overs. The only memorable thing about this innings for Failand was the girls provided the Failand fielders with some relief and cups of tea after 20 overs as it was so cold.

Friendly Skip.
John Skinner - 06/09/2009

Failand and Portbury C.C. v Lenton Academicals C.C.

Yet Another Miss Match
John Meredith demonstrated the Moonwalk
It was a damp and grey afternoon having lost the toss and put in the field Failand
toiled to get the Lenton team out. The highlight being a catch by 12 year old Finley Chivers to remove the dangerous Chris Jones for 53 and a LBW for Phil 'Carbonara' Dungey to remove Jamie Hearne for 93 to keep the score under 300 at 285.
After a mouth watering tea which was provided by Hugo Hanchets Mum, Failand started to attack this massive score. With only Roman Lagnardo(43) and Phil ' Dolcelate' Dungey(15) Failand were all out for 103 and once again lost to a much better side than Failand could match.

Friendly Skip.



John Skinner - 31/08/2009

Portishead CC V Failand and Portbury CC


Portishead CC win easily
Not much to say about this match except that Potishead completly out played us in every department.
John Skinner - 17/08/2009

Failand and Portbury C.C. v Taunton St Andrews C.C.


Failand just did not score enough runs because of some slow batting.
The weather was warm and sunny just right for a game of cricket. Skip lost the toss and was asked to bat. After 10 overs Failand was 42 for 1 with Simon Bachelor(26) out Paul Bachelor(13) joined John Meredith(18) and after 20 overs Failand was 72 for 1 and Skip said to the batsmen lets get on with it now as getting 200 was not going to be achieved. Ed Humphreys(75no) came in after 22 overs and nearly single handed got us to 182 for 7 with Ivor Chivers(20) giving good support.
After a really mouth watering tea provided by Wendy Bachelor Taunton St Andrews came out to bat C. Davis(66) lead the attack and with some good catching from Tom Hill and a good direct hit run out by 13 year old Harry Billing Failand made them work for there win and with Paul Duffy 2.4 overs 2 for 15 giving everyone some thing to smile about at the end. Taunton 183 for 5 won a very enjoyable game played in a very good spirit


Friendly Skip.

John Skinner - 10/08/2009
back

Failand and Portbury v Bill Owens XI


Failand fail to make enough runs on a damp wicket.
Bob Andrews took 2 for 20
Failand won the toss and chose to bat a good partnership between John Skinner(25) and Roman Lagnardo(30) of 62 was the only highlight of the innings. A direct hit by E Harper to run out Ed Humphreys(18) could possibly be said won the match for Bill Owens XI. with 29 extras and a wag of the tail Failand reached 121 all out with E Harper taking 4 for 33 from his 8 overs.
After a good tea failand went out to field with Phil 'Mortadella' Dungey and Tom Hill opening the bowling attack each taking a wicket early on but with N. Sara(56) and R. Hutchinson(20) put to gether a match winning partnership of 94 then Bob Andrews with 2 for 20 and John Meredith with 2 for 8 gave Failand a sniff of victory but with S Phippen 17 not out saw Bill Owens XI home with 3.3 overs left.
The game was played in a very friendly way with both teams going to the Rudgliegh Arms to enjoy a nice pint of Doom Bar.


John Skinner - 03/08/2009

Liam Smith(84no) starred for Failand and Portbury on a pudding wicket at Winford.


Liam Smith(84no) Stars with bat and bowl
Failand won the toss on a bright sunny afternoon and decided to bat. A steady start by the openers on a very slow wicket. The wickets fell steadily untill Liam Smith(84no) came to the wicket at 58 for 3 in the 23rd over and with Adrian Meacham(33no) took the score to 194, Paul Duffy(1) came to the wicket and was bowled by Natalie Sidwick a 13 year old girl and failand finished the innings with a 6 from Liam for 216 for 6 from 40 overs.
The Winford innings did not start well as Courtney Meacham and Phil 'Cornetto' Dungey both took a wicket each. A. Thomas(37) and H. Lewis(47) repaired the innings but fine bowling and catching by Tom Hill 3 for 20 Liam Smith 2 for 15 and Ivor Chivers behind the stumps 4 catches saw Failand win by 58 runs.
The star and man of the match Liam Smith with 84 not out and 2 for 15 off 4 overs.
Sunday Friendly Skip.

Wedmore C.C.v Failand and Portbury C.C.

Alex Chapman Star of the game with a magnificent 96.
Dan Chapman was involved in a run out incident
On a dull but warm Sunday afternoon Skip lost the toss and took his team out to field again. With Courtney Meacham and Adam Grey opening the bowling, with 8 tight overs gone all was looking good Adrian Meacham kept the lid on things with a tight spell taking 3 for 18 of 8 overs with one wicket caught by John Skinner a diving left handed catch low down being the highlight of the afternoon. When there over sea's Australian came into bat it all changed with a quick fire 52no saw Wedmore close on 214 for 6.
After tea Graham Grey(0) and Ivor Chivers(14) opened the batting but Graham went first ball so Brian Hooker(9) came in and they put on a solid 30 until Brian was out. Alex Chapman came in next having been brought in by brother Dan at the last minute because Liam Smith could not make it. Then Ivor was out John Skinner(31) came in at 34 for 3 and this partnership of 122 got the team into a winning position when John was out it was 156 for 4 then Dan Chapman(31no) came in and with Alex took the score with in 5 runs of victory and the Star batter was out blaming his brother for running him out. Dan then hit a four to win our first game of the season in stile with 2.2 overs to spare.

Man of the Match Alex Chapman

Friendly Skip.

Failand and Portbury C.C. v Wobblescroft Wanderers


Failand were Wobblescofted
On a nice sunny afternoon having lost the toss again Failand were asked to field first.
With Bob Sheppard back from Brittany because of a death in the family kindlly stood in at the last minute because Stuart Fowell had text to say he was ill.
The Wobblescroft batsmen made hay while the sun shone with Ben Sutclif the star of the innings with a controlled 92, the pick of the failand bowlers were Romand Lagnado with 3 for 52 and Phil Dungey with 2 for 15, they posted a massive 242-8
After a mouth watering tea provided by Pam Sheila and Sandra Failand set about the task of chasing down 243 to win.
The failand batsmen tried to score at the required rate but tight bowling stopped them with Romand Lagnado 39 Adrian Meacham 35 Courtney Meacham 24no and John
Skinner 26 reached 187-6 with poor old Bob Sheppard retired hurt with bad cut to the fore head. After the game Bob said that he was going back to Brittany and would not be back untill the end of the summer as sailing was safer than Cricket.
The game was played in a good spirit and everyone enjoyed a pint after the game.

Your Friendly Skipper
John Skinner.

Very Slow Start for Failand in 1st game of season.

They batted first on a green wicket and came to terms with it right from the start.
Wayne Young batted through the innings for 89 to take them through to 229-4
Steve Pursey being the pick of the bowlers with 6 overs 47 runs and 2 wickets.

After a very enjoyable tea Failand started their innings and with only Steve Pursey making 40 all the other bats failed to make an impression finishing all out for 122. A very disapointing first game loss.

Man of the Match for Failand was Steve Pursey with an all round perfomance with Bat and Bowl.

Sunday Friendly Skip.

John Skinner - 27/04/2009

Failand and Portbury C.C. v Spyepark C.C.


Very Slow Start for Failand in 1st game of season.
Spyepark batted first on a green wicket and came to terms with it right from the start.
Wayne Young batted through the innings for 89 to take them through to 229-4
Steve Pursey being the pick of the bowlers with 6 overs 47 runs and 2 wickets.

After a very enjoyable tea Failand started their innings and with only Steve Pursey making 40 all the other bats failed to make an impression finishing all out for 122. A very disapointing first game loss.

Man of the Match for Failand was Steve Pursey with an all round perfomance with Bat and Bowl.

Sunday Friendly Skip.

John Skinner - 27/04/2009

SUNDAY SKIP'S FINAL REPORT FOR 2008

Well that is another season over. We played 9 games to conclusion with 1 game cancelled at tea time giving a grand total of 4 won with 5 lost.

However, if we had not arranged new fixtures in September the total played would have only been 7 games with 3 cancelled and 1 abandoned. With this in mind, I recommend that we arrange games in September, weather permitting, and do the same as this year, for next season.

The side supported me both on and off the field of play for which I most sincerely thank everybody for. The teas provided by the wives (Pam, Sandra, Sheila, Wendy) were the envy of the opposition teams who always congratulated the ladies on a magnificent spread.

Everybody contributed to the matches win or lose but I am very pleased to have in the team some very exciting young cricketers – Charlie Walker, Jordan Bachelor, Courtney Meacham, Adam Grey and Ted Billing.

With your support I intend to stand again for next season and hopefully to encourage some more young cricketers to play in the Sunday side with a few more first and second team players making themselves available for some really good fixtures that Paul Bachelor has arranged for us.

My final word is on selection which has caused disruption to the side this year. There must be an understanding that when selection happens, if a player is selected for a Sunday game but subsequently drops out the night before the game, I do not think it fair that a player should be taken from the Sunday side so that that it is impossible, due to short notice, to find a replacement. This has happened as late at 11.30 on a Sunday morning!

This said, I look forward to another great season in 2009.

Thank you everyone for your support.

John Skinner
Captain, Sunday XI

Great win for Failand and Portbury against a strong Bristol XI


Ed Humphreys stars with bat and ball.

This was by far the best performance of the season for the Sunday friendly XI against a strong Bristol XI.
Bristol won the toss and batted, Adam Grey one of our 13 year olds opened the bowling taking 1 for 48 off his 6 overs Jordan Bachelor another 13 year old replaced him taking 2 for 37 off his 8 overs Steve Pursey bowled well taking 2 for 30 off his 8 overs but Ed. Humphreys was the pick of the bowlers bowling at the end of the innings taking 1 for 29 off 7 overs when Neil Pollard was hitting everyone out of the ground with 9 6's from his very quick 78 not out. This took their score to 239 for 7. I must thank Dick Whittington for taking two out standing stumpings but as he said he should have had four.


Tea was taken and once again Thanks to Pam Skinner for providing a scrumptous tea with all her home made cakes.

Failand started their innings with a very good opening partnership of 120 with Charlie Walker 62 and Jeff Astle 49, with the star of the game Ed. Humphreys 63 not out saw the Failand and Portbury side home to victory with 3 balls to spare.
My man of the match Ed. Humphreys for a very good all round perfomance with the bat and ball.

friendly Skipper
John Skinner.

Victory at Almondsbury

[match report?]

Scorecard: Sunday XI v Almondsbury (away) 20th July 2008

Up in flames!

[Sunday XI provide the smoke but Blue supply the flames - match report here]

Scorecard: Sunday XI v Blue Flame (home) 13th July 2008

Sunday XI (July 2008)

Plenty of runs at the Horse Race Ground Failand
Gordano Valley were the visitors at Failand on Sunday. Both teams were short of players Failand with 9 and Gordano with 10 but this did not deter from a very exciting game of cricket.

Sunday Skip won the toss and decided to bat on what looked a very good wicket. Simon Bachelor and Ivor Chivers opened, Ivor departed when the score was 32. In came Ed Humphreys. Soon after Simon was caught out, Henry Potter then came in and weaved his magic with a blistering 62 with 4 fours and 5 sixes. With Ed they put on 111 runs before Henry was out. Ed made a cultured 69 with 12 fours. Steve Down 18, John Skinner 29* and Brian Hooker 21 took the score to 262 for 5.

Failand feeling very pleased with their score tucked into a mouth-watering tea made by Skip's wife Pam and Ivor's wife Sheila.

After tea Dave Gould (Gordano's Skip) very kindly offered to lend us a fielder to balance the teams in the field of play.

Bob Andrews opened the bowling from the top end and Henry Potter coming up the hill, bowling fast medium, bowled 2 batsmen and then in his next over he bowled another. Things looked good at 50 for 3 after 14 overs and it still looked good after 20 overs with Gordano on 96 for 5, but then the wheels came off with Eizenberg making 110* and J. Peters making 100*to win the game with a 6 to score his 100.

Best bowling for Failand was Henry Potter 8 overs 3 for 40.

Over 500 runs scored in the game so most of the batsmen went home happy. Truly a game played in a very friendly atmosphere.

Full scorecard at: Sunday XI v Gordano Valley (home) 29th June 2008

Sunday XI thumped by Portishead

[match report here?]

Full scorecard at: Sunday XI v Portishead (away) 22nd June 2008

2008 Sunday XI season starts at Abbot's Leigh
Toss: Abbot's Leigh CC - Sunday XI won the toss and decided to bowl.

Highlights: Steve Down scored a magnificent 88 runs for F&P and Adrian Meecham took 4-22 in Abbot's Leigh's reply and Tom Hill saved at least 30 runs in the field.

We lost with 7 balls remaining. A wonderful game of cricket played in a good spirit.

Full scorecard at Sunday XI v Abbot's Leigh (away) 15th June 2008

The 2008 season is upon us.

FEEL THE POWER!

Safety guidance on the wearing of cricket helmets by young players

The England and Wales Cricket Board has issued new safety guidance on the wearing of cricket helmets by young players. It is recommended that a helmet is worn by young players when batting and when standing up to the stumps when keeping wicket against a hard cricket ball in matches and in practice. A young player should not be allowed to bat or to stand up to the stumps when keeping wicket without a helmet against a hard ball except with written parental consent. Coaches, teachers, managers and umpires should always ensure that a young player wears a helmet if this written parental consent has not been received. Players should regard a helmet with a faceguard as a normal item of protective equipment when batting against a hard ball, together with pads, gloves and, for boys, an abdominal protector (box). There is a British Standard (BS7928:1998) for cricket helmets and it is in the best interests of players to ensure that their helmet confirms to this standard.

The ECB is recommending that this guidance is followed by all players up to the age of 18. It applies to young players in adult cricket as well as to all junior cricket played with a hard cricket ball.

The ECB is requesting that the new guidance is communicated to the parents or guardians of all young players through clubs and schools, and that parental consent is always obtained before young players are allowed to bat or stand up to the stumps when keeping wicket against a hard ball without wearing a helmet.

ECB Cricket Department
February 2003

PERSONAL CONDUCT: RULE 21

21. As members of a "family" club in which both ladies and children participate actively, and as members of a cricket club with a very long tradition it is expected that behaviour off the field shall be courteous, supportive and moderate, and that behaviour and turn out on the field shall be:
(a) subject to the Captain's leadership;
(b) in the best interests of cricket as a sporting game.

End of Season Club Day Out.
A mixed Failand squad including the first, second and third team captains and vice-captains, the club chairman and secretary, two ex-captains, perhaps a future captain and the one and only Chalky White with his box of magic pencils descended on this picturesque ground after a quick pint at the nearby Beggars Belief.

This fixture has become a bit of an annual event, and this year six of the team had played the day before in a victory over Barnstaple & Pilton. This meant six hangovers. Acting captain and Failand ambassador Bernard Raines won the toss and decided to field first, opening the bowling with Phil ‘lock up your daughters’ Dungey, and Paul Nice.

Phil soon got his hands on a decent length, and let his balls do the talking. He swung both ways and had the batsmen tied up in knots. Paul put in a good spell also, but all this good early work was ruined as Steve Purseys’ first over went for 20 runs. This would have been 24 if not for a brilliant piece of fielding by Simon Bachelor. XXXXXXXX took the attack to Failand and scored an aggressive XX runs.

He was eventually bowled by Andrew Trineman. Simon replaced Phil from the pavilion end, and his well disguised slow leg break picked up a deserved wicket. Bob Humpreys, who gave his sons an excellent lesson in fielding skills at square leg, finished off the bowling from the pavilion end with his blend of hit me if you dare.

Lynton and Lynmouth posted a total of 196 for 3 in their allotted 35 overs, which seemed like a par score on a decent strip. XXXXXXX scored an undefeated XX.

A suberb tea was provided, which included some favourites such as sausage rolls, cocktail sausages, a delicious cheese and tomato sandwich, quality crisps as well as Battenburg slices and Treacle tart. Yum yum. Henry Humphreys was unable to finish his overloaded plate as he had to pad up with John Skinner.

Both surrendered their wickets cheaply to make way for the big guns Ed Humphreys and Dick Whittington. Some thoughtful running between the wickets besides putting away the bad balls kept the scoreboard ticking over and the run rate required, rarely went above eight an over. Together they put on 148 runs and left Failand within sniffing distance of victory.

When Dick was eventually bowled for XX, a further 34 were needed from 23 balls. Andrew Trineman hit a four from his first ball, but an excellent over from XXX(fast bowler that bowled the last over) XX left Failand requiring 21 from the last 2 overs. Ed Humphreys showed pure class as he virtually single handed took on L & L’s best two bowlers, hitting them both for decisive sixes and eventually winning the game with 3 balls to spare. Ed finished with 87.

It was all back to the Beggars Belief for some more hospitality, including roast potatoes, samosas and pork pies. Chalky White performed the entertaining man of the match ceremony, which was deservedly awarded to Ed.

Phil won the man of the tour award, not just for his bowling but also for his dance-floor antics and wonderful storytelling, most of which will never be forgotten.

An excellent fixture and day out, in a beautiful setting, with goats crunching on the reddening bracken and the added attraction of local runners struggling along the boundary edge (up the hill) in a half marathon , making us all realise what a gentle relaxed game cricket can be. We all hope to return next year.

Barnstaple 2005

George Vaughan, Sam Vaughan, Arthur Vaughan, Phil Dungey, Paul (Chalkie) Whyte and Sid Mistry

OLD BRISTOLIANS (away)
[report needed]

BLAGDON (at home)
[report needed]

Draw down at Taunton St Andrews
[march report needed here]

TAUNTON ST. ANDREWS
Our Sunday XI is looking forward to visiting you this weekend in the first of our annual double-headers.

Be seeing you!

VICTORY AT PORTISHEAD
[Tony Bamber needs to supply report here]

Can someone please get the Sunday scorebook off Tone soonest!

SUNDAY XI GETS GOING
Most games on Sundays early season are North Somerset XI or National Village Cup games (see applicable pages for news here). But the 3rd week in June sees the full Sunday XI programme get going as returning students boost player availability to require 2 fixtures on Sundays from now until end August.

Skipper Tony Bamber returns to the country (he has been in Wales) and after he has sobered up is expected to be leading the side in succession of attractive fixtures home and away.

SUNDAY XI TOO STRONG FOR STAPLETON!
With F & P having the strength in depth this year to field 2 sides on a Sunday in May, the Sunday XI set off for Stapleton while the 3rd XI headed for Chew Stoke. But getting to Stapleton was the first test of character for the F & P Sunday squad - they left from Failand having no idea where they were going. On car had to be "talked in" from the M4 when it should have been on the M32 and another arrived an hour late having been to Chipping Sodbury and Coalpit Heath grounds beforehand without success.

And when they got there they learned that the Stapleton ground is right next to Ed Smith's house - he had travelled to Failand first so as to be able to follow the convoy without getting lost!

Anyway, F & P won the toss and batted. Henry Humphreys batted through for 89* and Ed Humphreys (after arriving at the ground) struck a rapid 58, backed up by Will Humphreys 25 and Chris Smith 30* to finish on 251 for 2.

Stapleton were never in the hunt and were shot out for 122. Medic Ollie Binchcliffe with his leg spin took 4 for 19, Hallinen 2 for 30 and Sid Mistry, Sweet and Neil Harrison chipping in with a wicket each.

So this higher league opposition was swept away by our Sunday boys. Bring on Bamber!!

For full scorecard go to http://fpcc.play-cricket.com/scoreboard/scorecard.asp?id=286154

THE WORLD EXPECTS
Players and prospective players alike are waiting with bated breath to read the thoughts of new 2005 Sunday XI Captain Tony Bamber. Speaking recently, Tone was heard to mutter: "Wot me?"

Come on, Tone. Your 2005 drivel can appear here! You have the passwords!

Cheesewire 29.12.04*

* Wot happened to 2004? Charlie

Sunday Captain’s Report 2003:

I am standing down as Sunday Captain after what I feel has been a decent spell in the job. Success on the field has been underpinned by the influx of youth and the continuing energy of the older team members. During this time we have experimented with 45 overs a side, two innings games and have examined the idea of a cup of tea between innings and a barbeque after the game. We have also revelled in playing teams in higher leagues and on the better pitches. In passing on the baton it is submitted that friendly Sunday fixtures at Failand should be, and have been, run on a two-pronged basis.

Firstly, we should offer those people who want to play cricket the best opportunity possible to do so. Those people who turn up to bowl must be offered full allotment of overs in which to do so. Those people who turn up to bat must be inserted into the correct place in the batting order to allow them to do so. Those people who are good, very good, or even those who have reached star status will have the same chance to excel even when those without the same levels of skill are enjoying the same level of opportunity. This has been the ruling ethos this season and the last. It has allowed a star batsman such as Hugo Hanchet to score big runs and a young and potentially vulnerable leg spin bowler John Watson to get long spells under his belt and make radical progress forward. Similarly Kalpesh Patel developed in the later part of the season into a substantive batting force and Paul Teasedale started bowling spin and realised that he could clean sides out.

The thinking running alongside this has been a desire for victory and pride in performance. There seems to be little point in playing cricket on a Sunday or indeed at all if one has not set one’s sights on victory. Those who have played this year and the last should be satisfied that this has almost always been the case. The second to last game of the season was against Street CC. The previous year we had lost in a nail biting finish a game in which it was probably lucky that only nails were broken. The game this year was probably better natured but still remained competive and edgy. The desire for victory was summed up when a crucial catch was taken by senior player Chris Smith just centimetres of the ground with a salmon like dive.

I must congratulate stars, young players and players learning their trade alike on taking up this attitude. In particular Anthony Bamber excelled with the ball and could be relied upon to break partnerships with a real consistency. Hugo Hanchet, Ed Humphreys, Kalpesh Patel, and the occasional Bachelor excelled with the bat. There was a showcase of young bowling talent throughout the year and there was marked progress by those who had bowled so well last year. In particular; Craig Robshaw, John Watson, Ed Smith, Anthony Bamber, Paul Teasedale and, of course George Vaughan. These guys should be looked after and must be offered long spells in whatever teams they play in after schools and universities break up next year.

My thanks also to senior members of the club who helped out. In particular Dick Whittington is an invaluable man to have present at (or even just umpiring) a game. Paul Bachelor, Bob Humphreys, Bob Andrews, Chris Smith all turned out for games and showed that they still are gripped with an unshakeable desire for success and sporting excellence. My thanks to; Paul Bachelor for his work on the pitch without which of course we could not play and also to Bob Humphreys for his work with the youth teams. Many of those who played and indeed are listed in this report would never have played for us or perhaps even at all were it not for his work.

Henry Humphreys

Late afternoon rain

justifies Groundie's earlier decision to call off Cheddar game despite dry conditions. "He who laughs last laughs loudest" commented an interested bystander.

Lynmouth on tour 2002