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Poynton hit back to secure draw

23/ 4/2008

Poynton 152-9, Christleton 135-9 (Match drawn)

POYNTON can take heart from most of their bowling and fielding performance, and some parts of their batting, after this low scoring draw.

Eighteen for three didn’t represent the best start to a season, Paul Gould and newcomer Nafees Din doing a good rebuilding job, reaching 30 and 31 respectively before both fell to fine catches.

Some excellent line and length bowling, notably from Irasthan De Silva, who recorded 3-34 in 18 overs, made life difficult for Poynton and, instead of accelerating the scoring, Poynton collapsed again to 91-7.

But Poynton are hoping a long batting line-up will be one of their strengths this season, and some fine strokes from number nine Rick Clark, in making an unbeaten 33 from 39 deliveries, were vital here.

Matt Parkinson and Suresh De Silva also took three wickets each.

Unable to build any significant partnerships, Christleton were never favourites to win at any stage of their run chase.

Some intelligent rotation of the bowling options by acting captain Gould helped in denying the batsmen the chance to settle. David Graham top scored for the home side with 44.

Derwin Thompson (pictured above) enjoyed the pace and bounce he received from the wicket in taking 3-14 in eight overs, with Simon Turner also taking three wickets and Jamie Maltman two.

There were also notable slip catches from Turner and Paul Slattery but Poynton couldn’t take the final wicket needed for an opening day victory.