The weather it seems is out to get us this year, another cloudy cold day dawned for
cricket, rain looking likely at any time. Nevertheless cricket was possible in Greens
Norton though not everywhere else with Byfield’s own ground unplayable.
Norton lost the toss and were put in to bat on the inevitably slow and damp Norton
track. A now traditional slow start in difficult conditions saw 30 off 10 overs and the
loss of Bristow for his third played on out of three innings this year.
Three more quick wickets saw Norton struggle to 39-4 off 20 overs and in real
trouble. Allen (16) came in to give some impetus and some confidence but he fell
trying to pull another ball that did not bounce.
Robinson (25) came in to support (literally?) the injured Pittom who playing with a
runner following a pulled hamstring scored a solid 29. This took Norton to 129-9 at
the end and a score that would at least take a bit of getting, although on an improving
track.
All in all the problems were mostly of our own making although Brough 3-23 and
Andrews 4-29 bowled reasonably well it was not dangerous.
After a shower at tea Byfield started slowly, Jobbins (6) fell early but Jason Andrews
was the difference between the sides he took the game quickly away from Norton
with some excellent shots. His fantastic innings was not without chances being
dropped in the deep twice but his departure to Blundell (2-29) for 76 saw a slim
chance for Norton.
A couple more wickets and some slow progress saw Byfield reach their target
eventually still with some time to spare. Norton need some more decent performances
to maintain their place in this division.