Tong v Netherton Match Report (by Nick Sowerby)

After 6 months of polar like conditions more suited to jet ski-ing than cricket, it was somewhat surprising that we managed to take the field in April for the first league game of the season...personally I was under the impression that this would occur for the first time around the middle of August.

However on a almost sun-drenched afternoon, a new look Tong strolled out into the field after Nick had called correctly (a master tosser some would say) and stuck Netherton into bat....not trusting his own wicket.

Despite reaching 45 for 0 after 17 overs Netherton never really took control of the innings thanks in the main to some tight bowling from John D and James (a big thanks to Gareth for the boots)...back in action for the first time since the broken toe nail that kept him out all last season, coupled with some un-Tong like tight fielding, obviously with the exception of Nad and his attempt to catch their opening batter...anyone remember seeing schoolgirls (Duncan yes we all know you do) trying to catch at Rounders? Bless.

Anyway welcome to Tong.....Masood. In his second over...he took only the second hat trick i've ever seen playing for Tong (discluding the 17 against us of course), including 2 fantastic yorkers. An achievement even more commendable given the fact he has to overcome the fact that he stands at only 4 foot tall. He earnt every kiss, bite and lick he got from the delirious Tong outfielders.

This was only the start of things to come as a devastating debut spell from Masood of 6 for 31, despite also injuring himself attempting an impromptu cartwheel during his follow though, in tandem with an outstanding performance from the previously unlucky (including bowling someone with the bails refusing to come off) James who finished with 3-22 off 13 overs, bowling all the way through, resulted in Netherton crumbling to 78 all out. A mention also has to go to the cat like efforts behind the stumps from Stevie G, deservedly taking 3 catches in a very sharp performance, despite little practice. As well as making a top tea, just as importantly.A major improvement on the last Keeper.

20 minutes and 3 cigs (for Nick, Graham and Nad) later Martin, in his emulsion style, flourescent, size 44 waist trousers, and Nad, the left handed anchorman, strode out to the middle in confident mood. A confidence which was well founded after a solid opening partnership, ended only when Martin committed a sin at Tong only marginally more forgiveable than turning down a free beer and size 10 blonde, i.e. going back. Graham followed and managed to outscore Martin by one run..something the latter seemed to still resent 3 hours later. Khuram/Inzy followed and despite nearly holing out first ball to a shot more suited to the Baseball field, helped Nad to see Tong to victory and 25 well deserved points. A big shout to Nad for continuing his fantastic form from last year with a stylish 44 not out, including one near window destroying pull. A feat more outstanding considering that he was nearly rendered unconscious at the hands of a badly scuffed Solly cricket ball whilst attempt to walk a quick single.

Although not everyone was mentioned personally a big well done must be said to all. All 11 players (a mention to Bob and Dave D too for all their help in setting up before the game) contributed both on and off the field making Saturday a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding day. As Haseeb would say '' a big up to y'all, blood, innit''.

Roll on next week..........