Ridge getter better of Marston in opening day draws
Both the Ridge 1st and 2nd XI's had the better of their respective games against Long Marston on a scorching opening day of the 2008 Cherwell League season.
The 1's travelled to Marston which had suffered torrential rain the night before. However the pitch was firm and the outfield had drained superbly on what must be one of the best grounds in the area. Losing the toss, the Ridge were inserted and lost quick wickets with Russell Turner LBW for 0 and Steve Bird hearing the death rattle having only troubled the scorers to record a single. However Middleton was looking imperious at one end on his way to a superb 111. The Ridge ended with 208 all out with only John Rolfe other than Midds making a significant contribution to the total.
In reply Long Marston were quickly 4 down for only 40 with both Brezza and new signing Steve Buhagiar taking 2 for. Brezza ended with 4 wickets as Marston shut up shop very early settling for a draw. Marston ended a slow afternoon on 155 for 7.
The Two's lost 5 points for not providing an umpire but had the best of the game at Meadow Styles. Much like the 1's, two early wickets put the Bears on the back foot, but the old guard of Tombs and Carter hit 101 and 55 respectively to give the 2's a decent 255 to defend. Marston were never close, finishing up 192-5.
