World Cup afterglow and we’re on TV!
Our U9s opened the week’s fixtures at Edgworth. In the first game against a strong Brooksbottom side, we had another challenging game but came through to win. Sadly, in the second game, Greenmount were the stronger side saw it through for a win. All the players were outstanding in the games and worked really well together as a team. Some great fielding from our young Rams, especially Harry Holt, to close the official season for the Under 9s. A brilliant season for our young side, under the guidance of Brian and Andy. We’re looking for local clubs willing to play some friendly matches with us for the remainder of the summer.
Sadly, out U11s couldn’t play this week away to Friends Sporting Club and this brings an end to the league season. We’re busy sorting out friendlies to keep everyone playing this summer.
Our U13s were full of confidence, winning their last 12 games on the bounce, as we hosted Darwen in the LJL Cup Quarter Final. Rammy won the toss and chose to bat on a sunny evening. Wickets fell quickly as most of our top order struggled against some fast and accurate Darwen bowling. But our middle order played well again, reaching 92 after stumbling to 44-6. Joe Lynchey (11), Michael Souter (11) and Josh Simpson (13) gave us a chance to defend a score. Darwen withstood the challenge and reached the target with 7 wickets and 4 overs to spare. Good luck to Darwen in the semi-final against Rishton.
On the following evening, the U13s hosted Lowerhouse C at Acre Bottom in the 8-a-side pairs format (16 overs, start at 200, 8 runs off for every wicket) and the league-topping form continued. Rammy won the toss and batted well to reach 273-2 off 16 overs. Max Myers (14), Toby Anderson (15) and Michael Souter (18) were the pick of the batting. Lowerhouse responded with 237-10 off their 16 overs, with the best bowling from Josh Simpson, Zack Eatough and George Lee all with 2 wickets apiece.
The U15s “Rammyfield” were back in action hosting Lowerhouse B at Gincroft Lane. World Cup euphoria was about as they warmed up in front of live TV Cameras from BBC North West Tonight! Our boys weren’t phased by the media attention or the opening 50 partnership from Lowerhouse, and recovered control in the final overs to restrict the visitors to 112-4 off 20 overs. The Rammyfield response was clinical with Toby Ashworth scoring a powerful and controlled 40 off 37 balls and Joe Blake adding 24 off 25 balls. That left Ed Taylor (21 not out) and couple of partners to reach the target with 7 wickets and 4 ½ overs to spare.
As we head into the holiday season, our Ramsbottom All Stars finished their programme of 8 weeks’ cricket. I’m so glad to see so many 5-8 year olds loving their cricket and trying to copy their World Cup heroes on a sunny Sunday morning at Ramsbottom! Many thanks to Kelly Newbold, Linda Whipp and Andy Caunce for all their help with the programme this year. A massive thanks to all the players and parents for taking part. See you again soon I hope!
Phil Croft
Chair of Junior Foundation
Picture is the U13s in action at Walsden on Sunday 21st July