1sts win again at St Margs

(Sat 17th Aug 2013)

Preston continued their recent fine run of form with a comprehensive 75 run victory over hosts St Magaretsbury in Herts Division 2 on Saturday.

Batting first on a bowler-friendly wicket, Preston made their usual dismal start, sinking to 7 for 2 by the 5th over. Chris Cole (38) and Jack Morecroft (19) rebuilt the innings, the pair putting on a vital 53 runs for the 3rd wicket. Despite being dismissed in quick succession, they left Preston well placed at 80 for 4 with 20 overs of their innings remaining. The ever reliable David Fleckney (51*) along with vital knocks from Will Gallimore (27), Ben Hill (14) and Max Anderson (13), allowed Preston to achieve a very creditable 174 for 8 from their allocated 53 overs.

Preston’s opening bowlers Henry Morecroft and Mark Waters then bowled beautifully, causing the host’s batsmen plenty of problems in their run chase. Waters (4 for 38 from 16 overs) again took the main plaudits for another fine spell of bowling. With wickets falling at regular intervals St Magaretsbury seemed content to bat out for a draw. The turning point of the game came with the introduction of spinners Andy Riant (2 for 2) and David Fleckney (3 for 1), as the home side collapsed from 92 for 5 in the 34th over to 99 all out by the 40th.