There was better fortune for Norton-in-Hales at the weekend as they posted a much needed victory against Meir Heath & Wedgwood.
They started much better with Matt Riley and Neil Bloor making things difficult for Wedgwood’s batsmen.
However, despite scoring slowly in the early stages of their innings, Wedgwood recovered to 204-6 declared from 59 overs.
This target was mainly due to an impressive 85 from overseas professional, Fasal.
It looked a stiff task for Norton who have been batting well recently but haven’t won a game batting second since the middle of last season.
The main reason for them reversing this unwanted statistic was 17-year-old John Woodfield, who turned in an inspired performance.
After settling in carefully, the opener struck the bowlers to all parts of the grounds off both front and back foot.
He was unfortunate to fall to a catch at deep long off just five short of his maiden century. After Woodfield’s departure, Martin Rowley (35 not out) and James Ruscoe, with a quickfire 18, saw the team home with two overs to spare.
Things were looking up for Norton 2nd XI too, as they were able to turn out a full team for the home fixture
against Wedgwood.
Unfortunately, other than 16-year-old Luke Claydon (22), their batsmen were unable to get going and they slid to 79 all out, a target Wedgwood made for the loss of four wickets.
