Penn Street vs Ardleigh

Ardleigh 172-9 (Bayfield 81*; T. Armiger 5-39) beat Penn Street 122-10 (M. Bannister 57; R. Dack 3-10, Hindocha 3-12) by 51 runs

Season 2011 commenced with a visit from Ardleigh Green, traditional first match opponents in recent years. Any fears that the 10th of April might be a bit premature to start the cricket season were quickly dispelled, as the sun was out, the wicket was dry and the Common looked a picture. Jack Mendy was kicking off the cobwebs from the Squirrel end, but the first wicket of the season was taken by Tyler Armiger – almost inevitably, a catch by Matt Bannister. Jack’s pace skittled out Greaves for a duck, and three more quick wickets including a stump-splitter from Tyler put Penn St in the ascendancy at 40-5.

However, a right-left combination started to cause some problems for early-season radars, and opener Bayfield and Bull dug in, ably assisted by the fast-scoring wides. By drinks, Ardleigh were 128-5 and the complexion of the match had changed. But then fate intervened. Captain Chris Fletcher received a call and had to leave the ground for half an hour. Vice-captain Matt Bannister brought Tyler back to bowl, and by the time Fletch had returned the teams were enjoying their teas as Ardleigh had been skittled out for 172 and Tyler had his first ever five-for for the club.

Ardleigh however have a good bowling attack, not as fast as that of Penn Street, but naggingly accurate and getting good movement off the pitch. Fletch looked good, but fell to a good ball. Mark Gloyens was perhaps unlucky to fall victim to an lbw that struck him on the thigh. Matt Bannister however was in commanding form and for as long as he was at the crease, Penn St had a chance as fours and sixes were coming at a regular rate.

However wickets were tumbling at the other end, and eventually Matt fell for what looked like 49, but a recount showed that it was actually 57 – a great start to the season. There was a brief flourish from Tyler and Ross at the end, but Penn St were bowled out for 122, losing by 50 runs.

Disappointing to lose, but an enjoyable match in perfect weather, and Tyler’s bowling performance was very special.

Man of the Match: T. Armiger.