Rainford Cricket Club slump to a 21 run defeat at St Helens Recs

Jun 4 2009 by Our Correspondent, Ormskirk Advertiser

RAINFORD slumped to a 21 runs defeat against St Helens Recs courtesy of an inept batting performance and some fine Recs bowling.

An excellent spell of bowling from Rainford skipper Mark Williams, 7-40 off 18 overs, counted for nothing as, defending just 96, Recs bowled Rainfo rd out for 75. After top scoring in the first innings (19) with the bat, Steve Garvey took the man of the match honours with 4-14 and a splendid slip catch.

John R Williams (28) was the only Rainford batsman to provide any resistance as Luke Swards took 6-35 to help Recs to their first victory of the season.

With St Helens Recs 2nd X1 sadly unable to raise a side the Rainford 2nd X1 were left without a game.

The Rainford 3rd X1 travelled to Norley Hall on Sunday and returned with a sparkling victory. In glorious conditions the Wigan outfit rattled up 254 for 4 declared, Tom Ashcroft making an unbeaten century. Craig Potter was the pick of the Rainford attack with 3 for 18.

A magnificent opening stand of 131 from Mark Brook and Chris Bell set Rainford on their way before the much improved Bell was out for 56. Brook went on to reach his century before falling for 127 with his side just three short of a seven wicket victory.