Churchtown Cricket Club captain Eddie Bancroft has hailed his side ‘The Best Southport side in District Cricket’ - despite the fact they have been denied promotion.
Town will continue playing in the Southport & District Division Two after a reshuffle of the top flight.
Town finished second, an automatic promotion position, just one point behind league winners Winstanley Park. However they have this week received the news that both teams will remain in the second tier after two new sides joined the Southport based league.
Haydock CC and Norley Hall CC will be fast tracking into Division One after joining from the defunct Alliance Cricket Club.
Churchtown were sensational throughout the season, despite a waffle thin squad skipper Bancroft led his charges to a host of memorable victories. News has filtered through to the players of the leagues decision, but they are anything but downbeat about the decision and are looking to continue their fine relationship with the District League.
The volunteers who dedicate so much time and effort to the league system have previously felt the brunt of unhappy clubs denied promotion, but Churchtown fully respect the decision.
Bancroft said: “We aren’t in the business of flying off the handle and taking cheap digs at the league over promotion issues – that’s just not our style. “
“Personally I would have loved a crack at Division One, but the new clubs are big names and will only strengthen the reputation of our league. The Alliance has now folded as a competition, so we may have a few other clubs following suit, they would be more than welcome in our eyes as they could well strengthen Division Two.”
“The big clubs in Division One are from villages or out of town, the winners of Division Two are from Wigan - so we can proudly call ourselves the best in Southport this year.”
WINSTANLEY PARK vs CHURCHTOWN
FULL REPORT CCC 20 points Park 5 points
Twenty four years ago Mike Brearley once wrote the art of captaincy – perhaps the former England captain should consider dabbing his quill again and reissuing his work with a chapter on Churchtown skipper Eddie Bancroft.
The iconic 6” 6” tall Town leader used early inch of his presence to galvanise his ailing troops with a midweek team talk and his charges, who had all but given up the season, responded with a famous win over league leaders at Winstanley Park.
The cup winners looked all set to stroll to an impressive double triumph after a string of recent victories, but with two games to go until the end of the season any one of four teams could now lift the Southport & District Division II League Title.
The small, yet stunning village ground at Winstanley Park is the perfect setting for such a key game. The historical stone wall, the pothole ridden approach and the wild overhanging branches of the towering oak trees would make a beautiful watercolour.
As relaxing as the scenery may have been for the players; early afternoon rain delayed the start of the game and only served to increase the tense in the Wigan air.
Suddenly the sound of the nearby motorway became more predominate as the pressure mounted; the shrill of the speeding vehicles coasting along the M6 were almost like the alarm calls for the two skippers. Bancroft, and Park captain Crompton realised that if the rains continued before teams would see their title hopes disappear out of sight and into the distance.
Although some time had slipped away, the most menacing clouds finally drifted by and play began after Park won the toss and choose to bat. The decision may have been seen as slightly arrogance by the home side, but the Wigan outfit recently killed off a cup tie with Town by posting 220 batting first.
Such a score never look likely this time around however as Bancroft pulled off a brave and ingenious move by throwing the ball to young swing bowler Ryan Buck. The youngster pinpointed his end to begin his devastation with his sharply deviating deliveries. Under the dubious cloud cover he found early movement and took the key wicket of Gary Darbyshire, a player who had tormented Town with his bat in previous tussles.
The youngster also took a steepling catch to get Carl Foster’s afternoon off with the ball. Foster’s superb season continued; his variation, pace and bounce found little resistance as he ravaged Park’s middle order.
Skipper Bancroft got in on the act with the ball himself and also cleverly plugged any holes in the field and for once his fielders performed to their ability. Key catches were taken and a host of solid strokes were smartly stopped to deny any momentum on the scoreboard. With the gloves Terry Wood has found a key lease of life, his footwork tidied up any wayward deliveries and he made light work of any edges.
Only skipper Kieran Crompton offered any resistance as he watched his side crumble under the pressure. Although he scored a useful 30 runs, he tried to dominate the strike and dangerously gave up more than a crucial dozen singles to protect his batting partners.
When Foster wrapped things up with his seventh wicket for just 37 runs Park had posted just 101. Rain again fell in the lunch break and Churchtown may have been forgiven for some aggressive early strokes to wrap up the win. Thankfully Mark Foster took his time about assembling his match winning innings. The league leading run scorer was under pressure as Crompton scattered his fielders around the boundary to halt his impressive hard hitting. Winstanley had hoped to buy his wicket with a loose slog towards the ropes; Foster however won the mental battle by refusing to slog at the skippers looping spin bowling.
There were some nervous faces in the Town dressing room as John Southworth was caught early for one, but Bancroft reshuffled his pack and sent Greg Pennington to the crease. With the game threatening to swing back into the balance Foster hit his finest knock to date against some good tight bowling.
For once the majority of his runs didn’t come from boundaries. Although he did hit a couple of fine shots to the rope he ran a host of quick single, cheeky twos and well judged threes.
Between them Foster (72) Pennington (20 not out) ran more than 40 runs between the wicket during their partnership of 76. With the game out of sight Foster finally fell, but deserved his applause from both sets of supporters. Naylor then fell without score and it was left to number five Terry Wood to hit the winning runs and record an excellent seven wicket win.
The game was a fine spectacle between the best two cricketing side in the division and a fixture that was once again played in a wonderful spirit. When Churchtown were hammered by Park in the recent cup semi-final the two sides enjoyed an impromptu drink and party on the boundary edge. The Wiganers repaid that hospitality as both sides enjoy a chat and few drinks in the clubhouse after the tense game. Many agreed it would be somewhat poetic justice if one of these two sides went on to win the league. Winstanley should be promoted at the end of the current campaign regardless of their final position. They are an excellent side, who play in the right spirit, enjoy a fair game and also have enough room for eight strips at their ground.
Churchtown will stay in the division as their ground at Ferryside Lane doesn’t meet league standards, but they will finish the season content that they have again charmed the local cricket scene with their fun brand of cricket and fine attitude.
TOWN DEFEAT PARK
The Division II title race will go down to the wire after league leaders Winstanley Park were well beaten by Churchtown on Saturday.
The Wigan outfit had skipped clear of the chasing pack; however they picked up just five bonus points on Saturday as Town proved too strong.
Winstanley Park won the toss, but decided to bat first with memories from their huge total in the Pochin Cup still afresh.
Eddie Bancroft, who asked his side for a reaction certainly got one with Ryan Buck and Carl Foster making early inroads.
For once Churchtown held on to the vital catches as Park were dismissed for just 103, Foster proving the pick of the bowler with seven wickets.
In reply Mark Foster continued his superb season with a match winning innings of 72, and on a tricky wicket Churchtown restricted Park to just one bowling point in their reply.
Portland Wine now lead the table and are expected to lift the Division II trophy, although three teams will be waiting in the wings should their luck run out.
Highlights: E.Bancroft (Churchtown) 8-33
Result: Churchtown won by 10 wickets
Churchtown (115-9) beat Ashworth (114 all out )
Captain Eddie Bancroft led Churchtown to a memorable win over Ashworth on Saturday with a five wicket haul and a match winning innings.
Title chasing Town looked to have given up their lead at the top of the Southport & District Division II at 6pm; however a nerve jangling tenth wicket partnership edged them to victory.
Churchtown won the toss and gave their bogey side Ashworth the chance to bat first on a pitch that had been battered by midweek rain.
The Pochin Cup semi-finalists had stridden out to bat confidently, but Bancroft found the edge twice in his opening overs to leave them reeling at 4 for 2.
A good crowd was then treated to a host of attacking strokes from the Ashworth middle order and chances for Churchtown either went to ground or landed in the gaps. The only ray of light in the field on a day of gloom was a stunning catch from Carl Jackson.
After some decent partnerships for the Maghull outfit Michael Watson showed his quality as a back up bowler with four quick wickets to restrict the visitors to 114.
The target on a wet and worn wicket that had turned into a quagmire was always going to be a big ask.
Openers Mark Foster and John Southworth batted nicely to steer Town to 40 without loss, but their efforts looked to be in vain after a worrying collapse as five wickets fell in quick secession.
Ashworth looked all but home – they didn’t however count on Town’s tail end waggling like that of an in form greyhound on display at Belle Vue.
Left handers Terry Wood and Greg Pennington got Town back on a track with some sensible batting dragging Churchtown to 90, but both threw their wickets away with loose shots. Youngsters Knowles and Buck let nerves get the better of them, and as the crowd watched anxiously two founder members of the club found themselves in the heat of the battle with nine wickets down and 18 runs still needed for victory.
Skipper Eddie Bancroft had been joined by the every reliable Carder at crease and the duo hatched a plan to get Town home and earn twenty league points.
Carder never look in danger of losing his wicket as he knocked around some crucial singles, Bancroft however played the role of the number ten with some fearless hitting. It was brutal if not beautiful from Bancroft; and cool rather than calamitous from Carder.
Ashworth came close to the key wicket on a few occasions before the Ferryside Lane
fans were sent into raptures. The famous old ground was treated to one of it’s most memorable moments as Bancroft freed his arms and smash his blade straight through the line of a full delivery – the bowlers shout of ‘catch’ were in vain as the ball continued to rise over his head and continue on his glorious flight beyond the ropes for six. The winning stroke sparked celebrations on the boundary, before a round of applause and handshakes for the devastated visitors who had contributed to a wonderful spectacle.
The win looked all the more important when news of a wins for Winstanley Park and in form Portlane Wine emerged.
A blanket could be thrown over the top four in the division and one slip up could cost any side, Churchtown will needed to be on their game to defeat Hindley St Peters on Saturday.
Monday, July 6th 22.46
TEN WICKET WIN FOR TOWN
Mawdesley 100 all out
Churchtown 101 for 0
Churchtown eased to a ten wicket win over Mawdesley, although the weather proved Town’s toughest opponent.
After travelling to the stunning village club cricket Churchtown were treated to some extra hospitality when the home side won the toss and surprisingly elected to bat first. For 50 overs they slowly put together a total, although Carl Foster and Eddie Bancroft snuffed out any threatening partnerships.
In the field Ryan Buck was electric, whilst his older sibling James was eccentric. Following a heavy night, the all rounder made a string of lazy errors in the field and was sent to the boundary out of harms way by his furious captain. The debacle continued however when a gentle stroke came toward him and he somehow allowed the ball to squirm past him for four, thankfully as he retrieved the ball from the ropes he wasn’t in an earshot of his animated teammates.
Carl Jackson, complete with new footwear, again raised questions on his infamous goalkeeping stories when he put down another simple chance in the slips. Thankfully wicketkeeper Greg Pennington took three catches and acted smartly for two run outs to restrict Mawdesley on 101 for 9.
Rain halted the fixture for an hour, but an early lunch was taken and the hosts covered the pitch, when the clouds clearly both teams were happy to play in the changeable conditions.
In reply the majority of Churchtown’s batting order were yet again left to enjoy the action as Mark Foster and John Southworth smashed the home bowling to all four corners of the ground to seal yet another three figure partnership and a ten wicket win for Churchtown.
Next weeks see two key fixture at Ferryside, Darwin visit the Lane on Saturday and league leaders Winstanley Park head to Marshside for the semi-final of the Pochin Cup. Supporters are remained that Sunday’s key game starts at 1.30pm.
Monday, June 15th. 09.48am
UNBEATEN RUN CONTINUES WITH SUPERB WIN
Key catch and solid innings - Souy!
Churchtown stretched their unbeaten run to eleven games with a fine win at Bretherton on Saturday.
The Lancashire village hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for Town in previous seasons, but a solid team performance ensured they returned home with maximum points.
Returning skipper Eddie Bancroft won the toss and gave the hosts the chance to bat first on a firm wicket. Carl Foster celebrated his recent call up into Southport & District Representative with another clever spell of bowling as Town toiled in the heat.
As ever at Bretherton the outfield has measured up better for a game of subbeuteo rather than cricket and boundaries came with ease.
Dangerman Vicent and Halsall looked to have steered the home side into the ascendance, but two wickets in two balls swung the tie with Southworth and Pennington taking smart catches off Foster. After the fielding debacle at Ashworth seven days earlier Churchtown were much sharper Ryan Buck and Chris Knowles lead the effort supporting the energetic bowling attack. After some lively deliveries and fortunes strokes Town finally bowled out Bretherton for 174.
Foster went to the top of the league bowling charts with another eight wickets with pace, bounce, swing and in genius variation.
The bumper score is usually a winning effort, on a track suited to batting and a boundary the size of a modest front lawn Churchtown remained confident at the break.
After a below pair streak by his own standards opening batsman Mark Foster set the run chase alight with an excellent 78, his powerful hitting and clever shot selection provided the platform for the visitors. John Southworth proved the perfect foil for Foster with his calm persona; he hit 22 as the pair put Town on the road to victory. With plenty of overs to spare James Buck led Churchtown to victory by four wickets, he entertained the crowd with some textbook strokes in the face of some lively bowling.
The win puts Churchtown second in Division Two, hot on the heels of Winstanley Park. Next week Churchtown face lowly Hindley St Peters knowing only a win will keep them in the hunt.
Monday, June 8th 11.45am
FOSTER SHORTLISTED
Carl Foster is one of just three players outside of Southport & District Division One to be named in the representative squad for 2009.
Fosters eye catching performances with the ball has caught the eye of selectors and he has this week named as a reserves for the fixture against Greater Manchester ACL.
Sunday 5th July,2009
Southport and District Amateur Cricket League
v
Greater Manchester Amateur Cricket League
at Rufford C.C, Cousins Lane 1 pm start.
Southport League team
Mark Golding (Rufford) captain,
Rob Kenny (Rufford)
John Dyson, (Tarleton)
Paul Higham (Tarleton)
Ian Symcox (Tarleton)
Martin Williams (Mawdesley)
Ben Davis (Halsall/West End)
Adrian Halsall (Bretherton)
Richard Bannister (Hesketh Bank)
Barry Mills (New Victoria)
Gary Derbyshire (Winstanley Park) w/k
12th man Paul Steadman (Mawdesley)
Reserves Carl Foster (Churchtown), Paul Hames (New Victoria), Daniel Edwards
(Earlestown) and Callum Hewitt (Earlestown).
Monday, June 8th, 09:46am
LAZY TOWN!
Lazy fielding, loose bowling and poor decision making with the bat left Churchtown red faced at Ashworth on Saturday.
The only consolidation of a grim day in Maghull was five bonus points and the continuation of Town’s unbeaten start to 2009.
Stand in skipper Mark Foster lost the toss and without Carl Foster, James Buck and Eddie Bancroft bowling options were limited.
A poor Ashworth side were somehow allowed to post a massive 186, after at least 7 dropped catches. Opener Graham Knowles hit an excellent half century and with the support of Carl Jackson they at least showed some resilience. Ashworth paid the price for batting beyond the maximum batting points total of 175 and ran out of time as Churchtown finished on 136-6.
SEMI-FINAL AWAITS TOWN AFTER SUPERB WIN
Churchtown cruised into the Semi-Final of the Pochin Cup after their exorcising Abbey Lane hoodoo.
Town were in scintillating form as racked up 152 and then dismissed hosts Moorgate for just 72.
After losing the toss, Mark Foster and Graham Knowles opened the batting, and some early boundaries gave Town a platform.
They were unable to build on the start however, and three quick wickets left Churchtown in limbo at 35-3.
With the bowling tight, Greg Pennington and Carl Foster hatched a plan to torment their opponents with quick runs, pinching cheeky runs.
Sharp singles were taken to the majority of shots, and twos were turned into threes. Frustration developed in the field and although just one boundary had been scored in nine overs, Town had 75 on the board. Buoyed by their recovery and with the Moorgate field advanced Michael Watson then stepped the innings up a gear with a superb 45.
Good running between the wickets continued and without taking any unnecessary risks they posted 152 all out from 39 overs.
The score, although not necessary a winning cup effort, had Moorgate under pressure particularly on an unpredictable pitch and rough outfield. Opening bowlers Carl Foster and Ryan Buck bowling wisely, taking the game away from Gate with good line and length deliveries. With the run rate growing Graham Knowles and Michael Watson reaped the rewards with nine wickets between them as Moorgate managed just 72 all out.
The cup win followed a disappointing draw at Ashworth on Saturday. Without three key bowlers Churchtown managed just 5 bonus points in the fixture. The result did however mean Churchtown remain unbeaten in nine games this season.
Monday, June 1st 11.40pm
FOSTER LEADS TOWN TO EPIC WIN
Southport & District League Division II
Churchtown 121 all out beat Portland Wine 111 all out
Foster - superb effort with the ball
An impromptu trip to Alton Towers proved the key for Churchtown on Saturday as they won a rollercoaster tie against their local nemesis Portland Wine.
Young Carl Foster, famed for his fast living lifestyle, enjoyed a trip to the Staffordshire attraction on Friday rather than his taking part in his usually late night exploits before a fixture.
The taxing day jaunt ensured Foster had a good night’s sleep and had plenty of energy in the tank for the crucial league bout. The reward for Churchtown fans was simply stunning as Ferryside Lane saw the one of the finest spells of bowling in Southport & District League history.
After losing the toss Town were forced to bat and only Graham Knowles and Craig Budworth applied themselves. After some poor shots and kamikaze running Churchtown ran out of batsman, posting just 121 from 34 overs.
With the ball Churchtown were superb destroying one of the best batting line ups in the division. As Bancroft heaped the pressure on, Foster ripped apart the visitors’ top order with pace, swing and ingenious variety.
The right arm swing bowler took nine wickets for just 31 runs as he destroyed a decent Portland Wine batting line up.
A classy opening few overs stunned the cocky visitors who claimed they would ‘easily’ reach the target in the glorious sunshine. Players who had expected to enjoy an afternoon sunbathing were soon scrambling for the kitbag as a quick five wickets fell with just 21 on the board.
Captain Howe, opener Cowey, Hooton and specialist fielder Edward James were all removed cheaply. Peter Van der Merwe followed up his bowling efforts with a solid innings and with the support of Peter Baker they slowly got Portland back on track. All three results looked possible before umpire Edward James harshly gave Baker out caught behind when the ball appeared to brush his pad and Van Der Merwe was also adjudged LBW when a Foster delivery hit him down the legside.
Shell shocked Portland then attempted to bat out for a draw with just a handful of runs required, but Bancroft took a wicket, before fittingly Foster clean bowled the last batsman in the pen-ultimate overs.
Tuesday, May 26th 14.59pm
GUTSY TOWN CLAIM CUP WIN
A depleted Churchtown earned a famous win over Hindley St Peters on Sunday to set the club on the cup trail.
Town were missing seven key players including their entire bowling attack used this year, club captain, wicketkeeper and in form batsmen – yet somehow they sneaking into the quarter-finals.
After losing the toss visitors Hindley were forced to bat, always a difficult task in a winner takes all cup tie.
Graham Knowles bowled his first spell of slow bowling of the season and with the support of Ryan Buck delivering his debut overs for the club, they restricted opponents Hindley St Peters with excellent line and length.
Winterburn bowled well
The duo took regular wickets to break up any momentum before Chris Knowles, Ian Winterburn and Mark Foster will kept the run rate down. From their 40 overs Hindley made just 99, but with only ten men Churchtown were always under pressure with the bat.
The reply did start quickly though, with Mark Foster hitting a quickfire 21, however three quick wickets gave Hindley the upper hand. With plenty of overs remaining Craig Budworth, Greg Pennington and Carl Jackson all set about consolidating and slowly, but surely gave Town hope. With just two wickets remaining and only a handful of overs Jackson kept his cool to steer Town in the quarter-finals
Jackson kept his cool!
Tuesday, May 26th 14.58pm
LEAGUE GAME OFF
Churchtown’s league game with Moorgate on Saturday, was called off as a pitch was not prepared for the match. It was the only fixture in the division that did not go ahead. Churchtown CC would not like to make any further comment on the fixture. The full details behind the ‘abandonned’ game will be heard by the Southport & District League committee.
Monday, May 18th 16.13pm
TOWN BACK WITH A WINNING DRAW
Superb fielding from Carder
Churchtown returned top of the table with a hard fought draw between the two best cricketing sides in Southport & District Division II.
Winstanley Park and Town put on a wonderful display of cricket at Ferryside Lane in a fine advert for the league, and if weather permits these two sides will be in the mix come the business end of the season.
There is tremendous respect between the clubs; who play the game with honesty, integrity and wonderful sportsmanship.
Park won the toss and after a rain delay, they put Churchtown into bat. The decision looked a good one with a damp pitch causing early problems. However the grit of Knowles and the guile of Foster, helped Churchtown to an open stand of 90. Mark Foster (73) continued his fine start to the season, while Buck, Wood and Bancroft added late runs as Town posted a respected 152 from their allotted overs.
In response Park bucked the recent trends of teams showing no ambitions with the bat and attempted to chase down the target. Regular wickets however ensured they couldn’t build momentum on the scoreboard. Buck, Bancroft and Foster were all in the wickets as Park finished on 87-7, as ever Phil Carder set the standard in the field. The draw helped Churchtown pick up 11 points and Winstanley Park just four.
Next Saturday sees Churchtown take on bogey side Moorgate at Abbey Lane, and a crucial cup tie against Hindley St Peters on Sunday.
Southport District Division II Southport College (129-5 from 50 overs) Churchtown (117-7 from 26 overs)-DRAW
BORE DRAW HITS TOWN HOPES
VAUGHAN WATCHES COLLEGE OPENERS IN ACTION
Rain and slow playing opponent cost Churchtown a win on Saturday.
At the start of scheduled play a downpour saturated the Ferryside Lane pitch, however an hour later the dark moody clouds cleared to show off the vapour trials of long haul airliners scattered like white brushstrokes on a sky blue canvas.
Churchtown won the toss and gave rivals Southport College the chance to bat first, and they quickly set about trying to secure a bore draw. After 18 overs, College had scored just 17 runs and had unsurprisingly taken their time, this limited Town’s response with the bat.
College batted a full 50 overs, killing the game as a spectacle, although they managed to post 129 for 5 wickets with James Buck, Carl Foster and John Southworth toiling for little reward.
Churchtown had just 26 overs on a weathered pitch, but rather than following the script and playing out the dull draw Town breathed life into the game with a refreshing response.
Openers Mark Foster and Graham Knowles hit 30 from the first six overs, before Knowles was bowled and Foster followed him off the field after a ‘shooter’. Sadly, some College players again stepped over the line with one player chasing the luckless Foster off the field repeatedly celebrating in his face. The reaction bought parallels to that of Chelsea FC.
College celebrate as Foster is out
Terry Wood hit a quickfire 23 to give Town a glimmer of hope, but the game finally fizzled out to the draw College had cleverly engineered and their players celebrated on the field at the end of play.
There were no such celebrations for Town however, as the disappointing result cost them their 100% start to the season. They slip to third in the table, just two points from the summit.
Southport College are yet to win a game this season and the way the league is shaping up draws will not keep them in the division. They have ability though and perhaps a more ambitious approach may see them pick up their first win for 2009.
Next week Churchtown will play more ambitious opponents in high flying Winstanley Park, followed by a cup tie on Sunday against Hindley St Peters.
Friday, May8th 11:52am
Southport & District League Division II -Match Preview
RIVALS CLASH AT FERRYSIDE LANE
Ferryside Lane will host the first Derby of the season on Saturday with Churchtown hosting rivals Southport College.
Table toppers Town will set their sights on a fourth straight win against a College side without a win so far.
The two sides have been involved in a string of memorable tussles in recent years, with College getting the upper hand. Last season however Churchtown strengthened, while College stagnated.
Only a number of ‘washouts’ against lesser opponents ensured Southport College finished a place above Churchtown last season.
The surface will be scratched on Churchtown’s bowling attack for the first time on Saturday.
For the opening three victories of the season Carl Foster and Eddie Bancroft have smashed their way through any batting resistance, however against
Skipper Bancroft is away in Portugal; meaning the table toppers will have to develop a Plan B – and quickly.
John Southworth and James Buck are the most likely candidate to step into the breach, but neither has bowled a competition ball since last September.
With the bat Mark Foster continues to spearhead Town’s run scoring, with tougher games on the way some support will be needed and there are a number of candidates.
Speaking from Portugal, Ed Bancroft, said: “The games against College are always tough, regardless of league position. We’ve had some great battles in both league and cup. Pride as well as points is on the line, but I’m confident that my players will show the discipline and commitment their shown so far this season.”
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Friday, May 8th, 10:11am
TEAM NAMED FOR DERBY CLASH
BACK IN ACTION - SOUTHWORTH
CCC Team to face Southport College:
J SOUTHWORTH
C FOSTER
G KNOWLES
C KNOWLES
J BUCK
R BUCK
C BUDWORTH
G PENNINGTON SNR
M FOSTER
T WOOD
G PENNINGTON JNR
------------------------
Monday, May 4st, 1.50pm
TOWN EASE PAST BEDFORD RASCALS
Churchtown ripped apart Bedford Park on Saturday with a devestating attack of bowling.
Town took little time in wrapping up twenty points and staying top of the Southport & District Division II table.
Skipper Eddie Bancroft once again crucially won the toss and gave newly promoted Bedford Park the chance to bat first.
Their innings didn't last long as Bancroft himself took three wickets for just 16 runs, however his excellent spell was just a cameo to fellow opener Carl Foster.
* A BEDFORD RASCAL
The medium pace bowler took seven wickets for just 10 runs with a sensational spell of swing bowling that had Park batsman wishing they'd stayed in Division Three.
After just a few overs Bedford Park were bowled out for a woeful 27 and Town neither time nor effort in reaching the target.
* A LITTLE RASCAL
In reply Mark Foster (26*) backed up the work of his brother with a quickfire knock to give Town a 10 wicket victory.
With Churchtown thirteen points clear at the summit they will hope to extend their lead against a good Southport College side in the Ferryside Lane derby.
Friday, May 1st 2.06pm
CRICKET IN THE PARK
Can’t get tickets for the Ashes? Well Sefton Park will host the next best thing for Churchtown players and fans.
Just a short train ride from Southport, Sefton Park will host the npower Cricket in the Park.
Churchtown play Ashworth on Saturday July 18th, but on the Sunday (19th) Town players may well wish to enjoy some fun in the park.
It’s completely FREE! allows you, your friends and family to have the best day out of the summer watching the live Ashes action on a big screen with thousands of other fans ... plus much more:
- See how your cricketing skills measure up against the England Team, and have your technique expertly analysed in the Sky Sports coaching zone
- Let the kids run wild whilst still keeping and eye on the cricket in the Buxton’s Kids Zone
- Grab a bite to eat and drink at one of the many quality food and drink stalls
- Win chances of a lifetime to be coached by members of the England Team
When and Where
- Liverpool - Sat 18 – Sun 19 July (Lord's Test)
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Friday, May 1st 10.17am
TOWN KEEP FINGERS CROSSED FOR SUNSHINE
A bumper crowd is expected at Ferryside Lane on Saturday with rain only forecasted in the evening. The Met Office say that Marshside may see some cloud during the day, but it’s hoped the game will avoid any serious downpours.With forecasts varying throughout the region its crucial Town get a result; as some Division II sides will defy any adverse conditions in order to complete a game.
SOUTHPORT FORECAST: Most places will have a dry and bright day, with some sunny spells. However an odd light shower may develop.
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Thursday, April 30th 2.45pm
TEAM NAMED TO FACE 'PARK'
A strong side prepare to face Bedford Park on Saturday, with the rota system again in play. Skipper Bancroft will hope to sign off before his holiday with a win.
E BANCROFT
C FOSTER
G KNOWLES
C KNOWLES
J BUCK
R BUCK
C BUDWORTH
G PENNINGTON SNR
M FOSTER
T WOOD
P CARDER
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Wednesday, April 29th 3.05pm
MIDWEEK TRAINING
Outdoor nets will again take place on Wednesday (April 29nd) at 6pm. Players are requested to arrive early to help construct the net and set up fielding drills. The team for Saturday and arrangements will be confirmed.
Monday, April 27th 2.41pm
100% START PUTS TOWN TOP
Back-to-back wins has put Churchtown joint top with Winstanley Park in Southport and District Division II. In all four divisions of the league system
only eight clubs have started with a 100% record. Next weeks opponent Bedford Park have twenty two points on the board and could prove to be a
surprise package. They were piped to the Division Three title by Mawdsley last season by just two points after their final game of the season was called
off.
|
|
P |
w |
l |
d |
BatP |
BowlP |
Pen |
%Wins |
Pts |
|
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
100 |
40 | |
|
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
100 |
40 | |
|
2 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
4 |
3 |
0 |
50 |
27 | |
|
2 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
20 |
6 |
0 |
0 |
26 | |
|
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
4 |
1 |
0 |
50 |
25 | |
|
2 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
14 |
9 |
0 |
0 |
23 | |
|
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
50 |
22 | |
|
2 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
9 |
6 |
0 |
0 |
15 | |
|
2 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
10 |
5 |
0 |
0 |
15 | |
|
2 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
5 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
9 | |
|
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
6 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
9 | |
|
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
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Monday, April 27th 1.00pm
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Monday, April 27th 12.45pm
BANCROFT: ‘WE NEED TO LEARN OUR LESSON’
Skipper Eddie Bancroft has urged his players to learn from the dramatic victory at Darwin on Saturday.
Town looked to be cruising to victory, until a collapse left players scramble for equipment in the visiting dressing home. Thankfully a late rally earned a win for Bancroft’s side.
“That shouldn’t happen!” Ed said; “You can say ‘fair enough we won let’s move on’ – but we’ve been in that situation before and paid the price. If we want to challenge at the top of the table then we need to kill games like that off, it would certainly be better for my health. I watched the closing stages locked in the changing room on Saturday!”
“If we learn from the experience then I’ll be happy, we have plenty of ability with the bat and I’d like to see it under pressure. In games like that scoring a solid 20 is as good as a half century in a difference scenario.”
Although the wicket played well Bancroft has warned his boys to respect the unpredictable pitches at this time of year.
“Outside nets is vitally important, it’s good to get your eye in with indoor practice, but to be playing on Ferryside Lane creates the match environment and ensures players watch the ball on to the bat.”
Town now set their sights on a hat-trick of wins against Bedford Park. John Southworth and Greg Pennington will miss out due to the rota system.
Bancroft added: “We have thirteen regular players on the rota now, so people will have to miss out here and there. It’s great to have this problem, because we also have a few lads who play occasionally. This creates a pool of 15 or 16 players to call from, with holidays and family commitments we will lose a few players, but fingers crossed there will be eleven names on the team sheet each week.”
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Monday, April 27th, 10:55am
TOWN GO TOP AFTER NAIL BITER
BANCROFT TOOK FIVE WICKETS
Churchtown picked up twenty points, despite going from the sublime to the ridiculous in an afternoon of high drama at Darwin.
After cruising to victory in their opening game Town snatched victory from the final ball of the game to take maximum points home from East Lancashire.
Bowling first the usual suspects Eddie Bancroft (5-46) and Carl Foster (3-52) toiled in the sunshine and restricted the home side to 160 all out.
In reply Town were coasting at 100 without loss, until Mark Foster (65) and Graham Knowles (30) were removed in quick succession. The wickets buoyed Darwin and the nerves in the visiting changing room were clearly taken to the crease as a middle order collapse ensued.
Ian Winterburn hit some crucial boundaries before number 11 batsman Gordon Pennington defied injury to guide Churchtown to glory from the final ball of the game.
Next week Town face Division Two new boys Bedford Park at Ferryside Lane.
Monday, April 20th 13:46
WOOD SET TO FACE DARWIN AS BANCROFT RINGS THE CHANGES
Terry Wood is one of three enforced changes to Churchtown’s team to travel to Darwin on Saturday.
The left handed batsman, who has spent the off season working hard on his fitness has been named in the travelling squad. Youngster Ryan Buck is in line for his debut, whilst Carl Jackson completes the changes from last weeks team. Greg Pennington and James Buck are making the journey to Hull and Craig Budworth joins them in sadly putting football, before cricket. The team will meet at Langs Wine Bar at 12.30pm before the trip to East Lancashire.
Ryan Buck set for debut
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Sunday, April 19th - 16:39
OUTDOOR NETS
Players are requested to attend outdoor nets on Wednesday (April 22nd) at 6pm. Captain Eddie Bancroft will be putting his squad through their paces with batting, bowling and fielding practice.
Foster ready for nets
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Sunday, April 19th - 16:35pm
SOLID HOME WIN KICKSTARTS SEASON
Churchtown staked their claim for a title challenge on Saturday with a comfortable win over newly promotes Mawdsley. Eddie Bancroft and Carl Foster bowled 25 overs each restricting Mawdsley to just 114, Mark Foster and Craig Budworth did the damage with the bat to ensure an easy win. Visit the match report section for more information on the win.
* The Ferryside Lane pitch played well
* Budworth set the standard with his batting
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New Tracksuits For Churchtown
Churchtown players will kick-off the new season in stunning new Adidas club tracksuit thanks to club sponsors, Lang Wine Bar. The retro style suits were handed out to players at the AGM by James Buck, who has worked hard to find funding to kit the lads out.
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BANCROFT TO SKIPPER TOWN
Eddie Bancroft is set to lead Churchtown into action in 2009 after been unanimously elected as Club Captain. Carl Foster will deputise, and Carder and Wood will continue in their crucial roles at the head of a four man committee. The news was confirmed the clubs recently AGM, as was a rule to pay subs at Tea to avoid hefty debts.
