Penn Street vs Holmer Green

Penn Street 148-10 (D. Ribaudo 25) lost to Holmer Green 149-6 (Harris 40; C. Fletcher 2-21, P. Goodchild 2-31) by 4 wickets

In a game that miraculously survived the rain, Penn Street lost the annual beer fest game against Holmer Green for the first time since 2003.

Batting first in a shortened 30 over match, we amassed 148 all out in 29 overs in an innings where no-one really got beyond the well-set stage.

Chairman Dave Lander looked good for his 26 as joint top scorer, despite facing some ferocious chin music that would've unsettled a player with less experience of the Caribbean!! Damo Ribaudo also did well down the order with Karl Stephens, scoring 26 and 17 respectively to shepherd us to a respectable total that looked in doubt with 7 overs left. Mention also should go to Reece Raven for a useful 23 and Fletch for a corking "Ponting-esque" six that couldn't quite penetrate the sports club glass despite hitting on the full.

In reply, things started ok, despite a poor drop by the skipper. We were beginning to develop a stranglehold on the Holmer innings when from 14 for 1 after 7 overs, they raced to 45 in a matter of 3 overs. However the lads rallied well and we chipped away at the top and middle order until the match reached its balancing point at 109 for 5. On the way, Grant took a stonker at gully after the skipper redeemed himself (only slightly) through his field placing (and some luck!). Fletch bowled superbly opening up and Goody gave us the chance of victory with 2 vital wickets.

In the end though, it wasn't to be. Holmer dug in and knocked off the runs to win by 4 wickets.

Disappointing to blemish our fine record at Holmer who were worthy winners.

Thanks to everyone who again organised another superb event in the club after the game. A quality blues band, several sambucas and and unlikely karaoke star combined to create another classic beer fest night!!