Friendly Match vs John Avery XI, 17th August 2008, London Fields

Club vs Country
by Shannon "Shanno" McKenzie

Despite stormy weather being predicted, Sunday turned it on for a full 30/30 game, as Averyo's XI did battle with the Fieldsos.

After winning the toss Averyo's XI took to the pitch in hope of setting the Fields a competitive target. So the Fields took to the field, along with a substitute fielder, who fielded very capably in the covers saving many runs. Why the need for a substitute? It seemed one touring Belgiano cricket team had 'persuaded' many of the London Fields boys to join them for a drink after the game the day before.

Naturally, this turned into "many" drinks and many a Field member arrived for the game a little worse for wear. One, Lordo, went MIA and arrived very late for the game. Thanks to our substitute ("Substituto") for filling in.

Speaking of filling in, LFCCs very own Travis "Travo" Willis took to the pitch for the Averyo's XI, choosing country over club. After a century in his previous outing for the club, he backed it up with a very impressive 129 off far fewer balls to set Averyo's XI on their way. Averyo and Shea-o batted impressively to post 39 and 42 respectively and assist Averyo's XI to a grand total of 282. Also assisting ably along the path to the 282 was Smarto with a stellar 86 (from his 6 overs). Despite aggressive batting, Turlo bowled very respectably and without luck as he posted a tidy 1/31 from 6. Matto was the pick of the bowlers ending with 5/35.

Staring into the face of 283 to win from 30 overs (RRR. 9.433!) LFCC needed to pull one out of the bag. The pressure to deliver the total quickly, and some tight bowling from Averyo and Youngo, resulted in an inspired batting collapse, including 4 batsmen posting duckos. With only a few wickets in hand and many runs to make, the teams seemed destined for an early entry into the pub.

This was before Lordo strolled to the pitch looking to put some respectability to the scorecard. Simo joined him to post a 9th wicket partnership of 59 in the face of some very enthusiastic opposition, keen to get into the pub. After several appeals being turned down, Averyo's XI though they had the breakthrough only to be confused by umpire Wheeeeelo's rising, rising, rising finger diverting around chest level to signal 'going down leg'.

Cheers to all who came down and supported the club during the game, including Sando and Skinno's family. Inevitably, a few beers were enjoyed post match.