Read 2^nd X1 started the season with a controlled victory at Clitheroe. Winning the toss and electing to bat on a wicket that looked like it had runs in it the team proceeded to rack up 206 for 4. Sam Marsh and Andy Laycock set the foundation with 27 and 26 respectively. Elliot Artinstall and Connor Lowes again looked comfortable but gave their wickets away which brought Andy Turner 67 not out and Elliott Lowes 51 not out put on an unbroken 118 run partnership which ensured the pressure was on Clitheroe from the start.

The second innings started well with Elliott Lowes trapping the Clitheroe captain plumb lbw for a early duck. Chris Astin found his rhythm and bowled 14 overs on the bounce and earning a deserved wicket for only 34 runs. Alex Hartley was unlucky to end with no 0-24 off 4 after two dropped catches. Andy Turner finished 7 overs for 24 runs wicket less. Marc Atkinson playing his first league match picked up a 2 for and again looked like a useful addition to the squad.

Clitheroe ended 172 for 5,

A cracking start but still plenty of room to improve with competition for places hotting up over the next few weeks. Big game Saturday against Burnley Belvedere and one that we need to prepare well for to ensure we all play to our full potential on the day. Sunday see us trip over to Rossendale to play Edenfield where we will hopefully be able to secure our third win of the season.  

Andy Turner