Leaver, thankfully now fit after a pre season injury, and Martenstyn took the new ball for Ash. The away fans burst into life in just the 2nd over when Martenstyn had former Kent 2nd XI batsmen Baldock caught in the covers for only 1. The Ash faithful grew more uncomfortable at the sight of a 90 run partnership between young Waller, who impressed further with a fine array of strokes all around the wicket, and Rossiter, favouring a more agricultural approach. 90/1 soon became 101/4 – young Waller obviously not used to the pace of Chambers caught in the deep for 56, Rossiter (41) caught by a rejuvenated Blackett off the bowling of M Mason, who in turn brilliantly ran out Harding for 0. The Bidborough fans and players and management grew restless. How were they going to explain a loss to non-league Ash to the Abu Dhabi consortium now running the club?
With an upset on the cards, Slow left armers Tripp and Barritt bowled well in tandem. 140/4 became 150/6, Tripp having no.4 Pinchin plumb lbw, whilst removing no.7 Trett bowled by a flatter delivery. The nerves were clear for all to see. Could Ash pull off a remarkable victory? The score progressed to 165 before the 7th wicket fell, White caught behind by the impressive Fyfe off a Tripp long hop. One final push was all that was needed, fingernails chewed down to the bone, the pressure mounted. Tripp and Barritt continued their fight, every run being cheered vigorously by the home support. However it was not to be. Wicket keeper Waller (23*) seeing the home side home with a calm knock. The Ash players left the field with pain in their hearts but all with an immense feeling of pride.
They had almost achieved the unbelievable. Everyone contributing significantly to almost what was a famous victory. Bidborough were relieved yet impressed, their scorer quoting to one Ash player “you played well, we look forward to seeing you in the league soon”. If only he knew!
Captain Tripp remained positive despite defeat: “Every player has played their heart out today. We can go away from the game knowing we’ve given it our all. They thought this would be a walk in the park today, we’ve gone out there and given them a game and almost nicked it in their own back yard. I look forward to the first round next year, I’m sure the Ash members will now be a lot more willing to compete considering this performance!”
So with Ash’s dreams of a Lord’s final dashed for another year, Ash can be proud of their performance against a very strong Bidborough side.
Bowling
Leaver 4 – 0 – 29 – 0
Martenstyn 4 – 0 – 28 – 1
Chambers 6 – 1 – 26- 1
M Mason 5 – 0 – 38 – 1
Tripp 8 – 2 – 23 – 3
Barritt 8 -1 – 34 – 0
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