Wirral wallop 2nd XI despite Dan's efforts

The 2nd XI welcomed Wirral 2nd XI to Gorse Croft on a glorious sunny day. The visitors marked their first visit to Audlem with an eight-wicket victory in a high-scoring game.

The team was hoping skipper John Wainwright could at last win the toss, which to everyone's surprise he did. He immediately chose to bat on what looked a good flat wicket and lightning-quick outfield. Audlem found themselves in early trouble at 10 for 2 in only the fourth over but a fine partnership between Zar Ahmed (27) and Dave Parry (38) took the score on to 62 before Ahmed was dismissed. The next stand which defined the innings was between Parry and Danny Thorburn. Thorburn dominated proceedings and finished unbeaten on 48 not out as Audlem closed on 185 for 7 after their allotted 48 overs.

Wirral's reply got off to a stuttering start as both openers were dismissed with only 8 on the scoreboard. However, that was the limit of the home team's success on the day as Rolin Johnson (100 not out) and Peter Clewes (59 not out) proceeded to flay the bowlers to all parts of the ground. Audlem's bowlers and fielders stuck to their task but neither batsmen offered a chance in a fine performance that gave their team a well-deserved victory.

Audlem gained 11 points and Wirral 25. Audlem remain in eighth place in Division 4 and are now aware of the task they face to maintain their status as the competition has now reached its halfway stage.

Next week the 2nd XI entertain sixth-place Norbury at the Gorse Croft in what could prove to be a pivotal encounter in their bid for survival.

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