Preston 1st X1 v Old Albanian 1st X1 (Friendly)

Saturday 2nd May saw a double header v Old Albanians CC.  The Preston CC 1st X1 were at home and took the ball first in a 45 over game. Australian Sam Crea in his post-flight debut game for Preston made his presence felt very quickly causing OA’s top order some early problems with a fizzing 5 over spell with the new ball alongside fellow opener Casey Hughes who bowled excellent line and length.

After 45 overs Preston had restricted OA’s to 147-8 with Crea picking up 3-21 on debut and all the other bowlers picking up wickets – including an encouraging spell between Murrell and Anderson.  A positive, up-beat performance for new Skipper Dave Fleckney.

Preston’s Warren Hearne kicked off proceedings with some early season form for a fantastic 72, ably supported by a strong looking and controlled Callum Blair who finished just shy of 50. A flurry of late wickets got Preston lower order scurrying for the changing rooms but in the end Preston comfortably crossed the line, with Peter Murrell clobbering 3 quick boundaries to bring the game home in Preston’s favour.  The Red Lion throbbed later on into the early hours.  A great game – thank to OA’s for the good spirited game and some encouraging signs for both sides for the 2015 season and all the best for OA’s 2015 campaign.