2019 Match reports (cont)

22/8. Best laid plans end in defeat for HL. Third time we have met GSK this year, having been on the end of a drubbing the previous two times. HL batted first, 142 off our 18 overs, thanks to a Wendel 82, but not much from anyone else. We could have scored a few more in the final overs, but 142 felt a reasonably decent score at half time. Unfortunately that didn’t take into account their number 4, who scored a 100 as GSK completed the task with 16 balls remaining. We took two early wickets, and then that was more or less it, as said number 4 rode his luck and hit big. Another broken finger, this time on the oppo side, making it one from each game this season. 3 defeats from 3 games v GlaxoSmithkline, it’s a hard pill to swallow.

15/8. Superstars, cancelled. Train strikes and the rain beat us the first time in June, oppo player numbers this rescheduled game.

13/8. Its been 6 years since we last played Westminster Planners up at Wandsworth Common. However, they were happy to travel out to the wild west (Kempton) for a resumption of hostilities. Unfortunately, the trains had their say, several of the oppo were delayed and some improvisation was required to get the game started, which it finally did at 630pm.  HL batted first, posting 113/7 from the 18 overs. Swainy17, Chris18, Wendel23, and Paul30no. In response, 7 bowlers were used, and in the fading light Westminster needed 14 off the last over, eventually falling short by 12 runs, 7 down, at 845pm, far too late for a mid August game. 2 stumpings for Steve off 1 Wendel over, and a wicket a piece for Swainy, Chris and Paul. A good game, HL just on top throughout the Westminster innings. Great see Ian, Davinder and Ash spectating...

8/8. Hounslow v Brentford. aka Leisure v Griffin Park Supporters. Our first ever game ends in last ball win...  GPS openers got off to a flyer, 45 from the first 5. Fortunately for us, both had to retire on 25, but they came back at the end as the wickets tumbled, Ibby picking up 4 for 14, and Parky 2 for 22. 126 for the win was going to be tough going this evening. Chris played the steady openers role retiring on 25, Ibby a quick fire 20 (2*6, 2*4).  Paul, Jim, Steve chipped in with valuable runs. Needing 20 off the last 5 overs, GPS then bowled 2 maidens to put the pressure back onto HL. With 1 ball to go, the scores were level. Parky on strike kept his cool to hit the winning runs. A low scoring thriller, HL just edged it, but played with the right spirit and hopefully more games next season. GPS 125/8, HL 129/6.