DMPS Financial Services St Michael's

Match Reports 2011
Saints fall at the last hurdle – Just!
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club travelled to top of the table side
Prestwick last Saturday knowing that there was still a chance, albeit
a small one, that they could pip their hosts to the WDCU Premiership
title.
Saints needed to restrict the home side to just three points to be
crowned as league champions, however, the formula for losing bonus points
made this a very tall order, and one which made the toss crucial.
DMPS Saints skipper Heron called incorrectly in his last game in charge,
and on a wicket that looked perfect for bowling it was no surprise to
anyone when opposition captain Pitt asked Saints to bat. This meant
that should Prestwick take seven wickets in the first innings they would
have secured the 4 points they needed to win the title no matter what
happened when they batted.
Only eight overs into the DMPS Saints innings the first wicket fell,
Brockwell adjudged lbw for 6 from the bowling of talented youngster
Morrison. Club stalwart Muir joined Gibson at the crease and took the
attack to the home side with two crashing boundaries through cover being
the highlight; however, having built a partnership of 42 he was too
given lbw for 11, this time off the bowling of Scott.
Heron came and went disappointingly, but this brought Larsen to the
middle and with his fellow Kiwi the biggest partnership of the day developed.
Larsen played some quality shots all around the wicket while Gibson
rode his luck somewhat but still accumulated runs in front of some potential
suitors.
The Antipodean pair put on 47 runs until Gibson was the third lbw of
the day, out for a hard earned 51 off the bowling of Pitt. When Pitt
claimed his second wicket, that of Larsen for a fluent 34, Saints were
on 135-6 in the 43rd over and Prestwick were within touching distance
of winning the league.
It only took another two overs for the home side to secure the seventh
Saints wicket This time Marscheider given out lbw when hit high on the
thigh, to send the home side into a mass celebration in the middle.
With the league lost, the remaining batsmen were instructed to attack
and have some fun, with the aim of putting some quick runs on the board.
With such an approach wickets will undoubtedly fall quickly and DMPS
Saints lost their last three wickets for only five runs, with Kishore
unbeaten on 12 and the innings finishing on 146 in the 48th over.
During the interval the mood of the camp was obviously one of disappointment,
but also one of determination to get back on the field and win the game
outright. DMPS Saints took the field wanting to prove that they were
indeed a better team than Prestwick on the day, and leave a lasting
impression should the sides indeed meet again in the near future.
It only took three overs for Saints to take their first victim, Larsen
having MacDonald caught at mid-on by Gibson when the batsman tried once
too often to try and hit his was out of trouble.
Adding to his wicketless day Rafiq was the next to go for a single
run, comprehensively clean bowled by Gibson in the sixth over, leaving
the home side on 9-2. Lawler and Rodger attacked Saints with some aggressive
shots and had built a frustrating partnership until the former was caught
by Larsen off the bowling of Foster, who has undoubtedly been one of
the finds of the season.
When Foster finished his spell, another new shining light for this
season Tom Holmes, was brought on and produced some magic first ball
having Roger caught behind by the ever-reliable Farrukh for the highest
Prestwick individual score of 37.
With Prestwick stumbling on 63-4 from 19 overs the game developed into
the Chris Brockwell show. Saints vice-captain produced a wonderful spell,
taking four wickets for a mere 13 runs to destroy Prestwick's middle/late
order. Aided by a Marscheider wicket, the solitary lbw to be awarded
to Saints, and a suicidal run out between Pettigrew and A. Scott, Prestwick
were dismissed for only 92 runs on their home patch.
Despite losing the title – one bad day at the office versus Hillhead
being the only defeat of the season and ultimately costing the side
dearly – all the players who took the field can be proud of their
efforts in comprehensively beating the side who will now represent the
WDCU in the play offs to reach the National League.
Everyone at DMPS St Michael's would like to congratulate Prestwick
on winning this season's title and wish them all the best in the play
off games and pursuit to get promoted to the SNCL.
The club would also like to thank overseas players Corey Larsen and
Jamie Gibson for all their efforts this season – both on and off
the park – and wish them a safe trip home and every success with
their future.
The Corner House Hotel, Annan Man of the Match award
went to Chris Brockwell for his tremendous spell of bowling, leadership
qualities and drive on the field. When ratified as skipper for next
year, the side will no doubt in very capable and trustworthy hands.
Scores: DMPS St Michael's CC: 146 (J. Gibson 51, C.
Larsen 34 ; A. Scott 7.3-2-10-3, G.Pitt 10-1-24-5) : Prestwick: 92 (C.
Roger 37 ; C.Larsen 5-1-21-1, J. Gibson 5-3-7-1, C. Brockwell 10-5-13-4,
C. Foster 4-0-28-1, T. Holmes 4-0-14-1, R. Marscheider 2-0-4-1, D. Rankine
1-0-4-0)
01/09/11
Rain Dampens Saints Title Hopes
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club hosted third placed Glasgow Accies last
Saturday knowing that a win was a must in order to stay in contention
for the 2011 WDCU Premiership title.
As has been the case all season, weather forecasts were varied, but
everyone hoped that the rain would bypass Kingholm Park and a game of
cricket could be completed. On winning the toss opposition skipper Andrew
unsurprisingly asked Saints to bat.
Despite a reshuffle in the batting order, the opening pair remained
constant; Brockwell and Gibson provided a solid opening stand in difficult
conditions. Both batsmen played responsibly putting on 40 runs in nine
overs until Gibson was caught at mid wicket off the bowling of Ganapathi
for 20.
Duncan Muir joined his vice captain at the wicket and started to build
another vital partnership worth 31 runs. Brockwell was the next to be
dismissed, bowled through the gate by Statpute for 27. DMPS Saints were
71-2 from 22 overs.
Heron joined Muir in the middle and both batsmen played sensibly for
the first part of the partnership, not taking any unnecessary risks
but still scoring at three an over. Rain intervened and the innings
was reduced down to a maximum 45 overs, but everyone felt it wouldn’t
be the last reduction of the day and run rate could become an issue.
Another heavy rain shower meant tea was taken early and the match was
reduced down to 42 overs a side.
On restarting the game it was decided that Heron would attack the bowling
while Muir would rotate the strike. The partnership yielded a total
56 runs until Muir could not resist the spin bowling of Sheridan and
was bowled for an excellent knock of 32, leaving Saints on 142-3 from
35 overs.
With only 7 overs to go, it was felt that a score of 180 plus would
be very competitive. Holmes who continues to look a great prospect for
the future and Chaudry came and went trying to increase the run rate.
Heron was eventually out in the 38th over, run out for a well constructed
44 with the DMPS Saints score on 158.
Marscheider, Foster and Abbas were the last three wickets to fall in
the remaining overs, leaving Larsen – possibly the best number
ten seen in a Saints line up – undefeated and the innings finishing
on 177-9.
This was a welcome reversal of the batting performance from the week
before. This Saturday saw the top order take individual and collective
responsibility and build solid partnerships which allowed the middle
and lower order the freedom to attack later on in the innings.
A score of 177 from 42 overs was very competitive, especially considering
the slow damp outfield and the seven quality bowlers at skipper Heron's
disposal. DMPS Saints were very confident of defending the total but
not so confident the weather would allow the fixture to be completed.
Just over four overs later, having dismissed opposition skipper Andrew
for 4 to put Glasgow Accies on 16-1, the game was abandoned when the
rain got heavier and did not stop for the rest of the day.
This was a very disappointing end to the match for the Saints contingent.
The mood of the camp did not get better when later it was announced
that Prestwick had beaten GU Staff and moved further ahead of DMPS Saints
at the top of the table. Despite playing Prestwick in the last game
of the season in two weeks time, Saints need some help from either Kilmarnock
or the weather next Saturday to still be in contention for the title.
However, DMPS Saints will be concentrating on beating GU Staff next
week in their fixture at Kingholm Park before considering their league
position and the Prestwick fixture.
The Cressfield Country House Hotel Man of the Match
award went to Derek Heron for his solid middle order
batting display.
DMPS St Michael's CC: 177-9 (D. Heron 44, D. Muir 32, C. Brockwell
27. E Sheridan 8-0-35-5)
09/08/11
DMPS Saints Host Indian Touring Side
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club hosted touring side Roshanara Club Delhi
last Sunday on a cold and overcast day that the tourists were definitely
not accustomed to!
Having travelled all the way from London to fulfil the fixture, the
visitors were asked to field by skipper Brockwell as soon as they got
off the bus in the 25 over match.
Opening bowler Tarum had the longest run up seen at Kingholm Park for
many a year, but this did not result in any extreme pace or accuracy
and opening batsmen Gibson and Brockwell tucked in. His solitary over
went for 15 runs.
Saints lost their first wicket in third over when Brockwell was plumb
lbw playing late to one that skidded off the pitch. Gibson was the next
batsmen to go, again judged lbw from one that nipped back and hit him
in the pads. DMPS Saints were 39-2 from 7 overs.
First change bowler Veer, who is no doubt the most intense and aggressive
sexagenarian seen by all the home players, took the next two wickets
of Larsen caught and bowled and Farrukh again lbw. A mixture of accurate
medium pace bowling coupled with his "thousand yard" stare
made the opposition skipper a formidable opponent on the day.
Holmes was the next to be dismissed, this time caught behind off the
bowling of Ishneed, to leave DMPS Saints struggling on 52-5.
Fixture organiser Kishore joined the steady Bellwood at the crease,
and once Gunner had replicated his 2010 season and been given another
life, the biggest partnership of the day developed. Bellwood looked
in great nick, hitting five boundaries and two maximums in a great knock
of 64, whereas Kishore punished the short ball hitting two boundaries
and one six on his way to a well played 44.
When both these batsmen were eventually dismissed they had taken the
total to 155, Heron and Seymour took the tally to 164 at the end of
the allotted 25 overs. This was deemed to be a competitive score and
one the home side felt confident of defending.
Things went to plan at the beginning of the Roshanara innings, when
Gibson continued his good form with the ball from the previous day,
bowling Arjun in his first over for 8. Three overs later fellow countryman
Larsen took the scalp of Adidya, again clean bowling the Indian batsman.
Gibson bowled Tendulkar, Bellwood bowled Ishneed, Holmes had Dilip
caught in the deep, and Larsen took his second wicket having Punter
– who was perhaps too full from enjoying the culinary delights
on offer rather than batting – caught at deep mid-on by Bellwood.
This had the visitors on 92-6 and the game very much in the balance.
However, number three bat Rajan, who had looked a class act all day
decided to take the game away from Saints. Rajan plundered nine boundaries
and one maximum in a vintage innings and looked a tremendous player
of both pace and spin bowling. Supported at the other end by Sachin,
who had decided that no matter where the ball was pitched, it was going
over mid wicket for six, the pair saw Roshanara home in the 24th over.
Rajan remained undefeated for a tremendous 77 not out, an innings appreciated
by all, and Sachin smashed a quick 38 not out including one boundary
and four massive sixes.
This was a most enjoyable competitive game where the visitors deservedly
won with some fine batting displays. It is hoped that Kingholm Park
will see an Indian touring team visit on an annual basis. Thanks go
to all of those who organised the match.
The Jewel In The Crown Men of the Match awards went
to Chris Bellwood for his innings of 64 for the home
side, and no surprise to Rajan for Rohanara Club Delhi
for as good an innings seen at Kingholm Park for quite some time.
Scores: DMPS St Michael's CC: 164-7 (C. Bellwood 64,
A. Kishore 44 ; Dilip 4-0-27-2, Tarum 1-0-15-0, Veer 5-0-18-2, Ishneed
5-0-22-3, Manish 2-0-13-0, Akhil 5-0-39-0, Rajan 3-0-29-0)
Roshanara Club Delhi CC: 170-6 (Rajan 77 no, Sachin 38 no, Dilip 22
; C. Larsen 5-1-16-2, J. Gibson 5-1-45-2, C. Bellwood 4.1-0-40-1, M.
Wharton 2-0-15-0, T. Holmes 3-0-22-1, C. Brockwell 3-0-32-0)
04/08/11
DMPS Saints Suffer First League Defeat
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club travelled to Ayr last Saturday to play
the nomadic Hillhead side that are without a home ground in 2011 due
to the fact that their Hughenden complex is being redeveloped.
Saints lost the toss and Hillhead chose to bat. The wicket at Ayr looked
a typical batsman's paradise, but there were tinges of green on the
wicket and it was perhaps a good toss to lose.
Four overs into the innings Gibson took the first wicket, bowling Richardson
with the Hillhead score on 15. This brought well known danger man Chaudry
to the wicket. Gibson troubled both batsmen with his pace and was rewarded
with Chaudry's wicket, clean bowling the Indian professional with one
that cut back in off the pitch. Brockwell was introduced back into the
attack and struck with his second ball, claiming Foster caught and bowled
for 21. Hillhead were placed on 41-3 from 13 overs.
The highest Hillhead partnership of the day developed with Alam and
Burns playing sensibly to start and at the same time hitting the bad
ball to the boundary on seven occasions. The pair took the home side
to the drinks break and on the restart Brockwell enticed Burns to drive
one that wasn’t quite there and was caught by Kishore at cover
for 24.
Five overs later Alam decided to try and hit one boundary too many
when looking in command and unnecessarily threw his wicket away caught
at mid-on by Foster off the bowling of Holmes for 26. DMPS Saints now
had their hosts 102-5 from 26 overs.
Three more quick wickets fell – all claimed by the impressive
Foster – and Saints felt in complete control. However, a stubborn
partnership by the evergreen Bond and Fergus halted Saints' momentum.
It took a well-disguised slower ball from Gibson to dismiss Fergus to
a return catch for 6 and Hillhead were on 143-9.
Five overs later Bond was eventually run out for a very important 16,
finishing the hosts' innings on 169. This was a great effort from Saints
when a score of 200-250 would have been expected on a quality wicket
and quick outfield.
During the break the team discussed the need to build partnerships
and play sensibly and to take the previous week's mini-batting collapse
against Helensburgh as a warning. Unfortunately this message didn’t
seem to get through and DMPS Saints ultimately paid for it.
Only four overs into the Saints innings, opposition skipper Bond proved
that he has still got what it takes to deliver at this level. Gibson
was adjudged lbw for 6 and Muir followed five balls later, clean bowled
by an outswinger without troubling the scorers.
The DMPS Saints batting line up then began to collapse like the proverbial
pack of cards. Larsen – who was particularly unlucky to be given
lbw – Brockwell, and Kishore were dismissed for a further 29 runs
in only 11 overs. Saints were in deep trouble on 45-5.
Holmes and Marscheider tried to launch a counter attack; however, both
were dismissed in quick succession each for 11 leaving DMPS Saints all
but doomed on 68-7 in the 20th over. Foster came and went quickly, leaving
Heron and Moss in the middle with the side eight wickets down, 100 runs
behind, and 29 overs still remaining.
Both batsmen decided the first aim was to keep the opposition out in
the field as long as possible and frustrate them as much as possible.
Despite being offered some juicy buffet bowling, both Heron and Moss
protected their wickets first and took safe runs when they were available.
The fielding side became more and more frustrated, and some banter
was exchanged in the middle, especially when the Saints batsmen changed
tactics and began to hit the ball frequently to the boundary. Whilst
still unlikely, there was still a small glimmer of hope for DMPS Saints
at this stage.
Moss's brave stance ended with the reintroduction of Bond into the
attack, adjudged lbw when he had in fact hit the ball into his pads.
At the other end Heron had no other choice but to try and hit out as
best he could and also farm the strike.
Having hit another boundary, Heron decided to take a single from the
fourth ball of the 42nd over, leaving number eleven Kirkpatrick to survive
two balls from Bond. Unfortunately, Kirkpatrick lasted but a single
ball and was caught behind to finish the Saints innings on 114, Heron
carrying his bat for 31 not out.
This was a bitterly disappointing batting performance by the DMPS Saints
line-up, especially considering the warnings from the week before. Changes
in the line up will seriously have to be considered with only three
games left in the 2011 season. However, it is still possible for Saints
to win the WDCU Premiership title should they win their remaining three
matches, starting with the tough fixture against Glasgow Accies this
Saturday at Kingholm Park.
The Dumfries Motor Factors Man of the Match Award
went to skipper Derek Heron for his belligerent rearguard
batting that unfortunately was to no avail.
Hillhead CC: 169 all out (Alam 26, G. Burns 24. C. Larsen 10-2-30-0,
J. Gibson 10-3-32-3, C. Brockwell 9.4-2-22-2, R. Marscheider 4-0-32-0,
T. Holmes 10-1-36-1, C. Foster 6-0-11-3) : DMPS St Michael's CC: 114
all out (D.Heron 31 n.o., R. Bond 7.5-2-20-4, M. Alam 10-3-19-4)
01/08/11
DMPS Saints Maintain Title Challenge
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club completed their longest trip of the
season to Helensburgh with the ambition of winning the fixture and maintaining
their top spot in the WDCU Premiership league.
Lady luck shone on the visitors when skipper Heron won the toss and
inserted Helensburgh on a damp pitch.
However, opening bowlers Larsen and Rankine struggled to adjust to
the conditions. Larsen moved the ball prodigiously through the air and
off the pitch and the Helenburgh batsmen were simply not good enough
to get a bat on it. Rankine on the other hand could not repeat his usual
metronome standards. Fortunately, the run rate was not getting away
from Saints, the home score only reaching 11 runs from nine overs.
It took the introduction of Ross Marscheider for Saints to make inroads
into the hosts' line up. In his third over Marscheider claimed two wickets,
first having S. Khan caught acrobatically at second slip by Larsen and
two balls later A. Khan was caught behind by Muir. Two overs later Brockwell
got in on the act as opener Chambers was caught at first slip by Heron
for 8. Helensburgh were now on 27-3 from 18 overs.
The Marscheider/Larsen double act paid off again one over later and
Lewis dismissed without troubling the scorers. Marscheider then claimed
his fourth and final wicket of the day, dismissing Arachi for 8 aided
by a great catch down the leg side by 'keeper Muir.
The highest partnership of 23 from the home side innings then developed,
Stevens counter attacking with some quality aggressive strokes. However,
it must be said this was aided by a lacklustre and flat fielding performance
and some wayward bowling from Saints that included a total 24 extras
on the day.
Gibson claimed Lang's wicket caught by Rankine at mid on, then it took
a great caught and bowled from the Kiwi to finally dismiss Stevens for
an impressive 31 to leave the home side on 92-7 from 34 overs.
The last three wickets fell for 11 runs, Larsen hitting the poles on
each occasion in his second spell. Helensburgh had been dismissed for
103.
DMPS Saints opening batsmen Brockwell and Gibson strode to the wicket
knowing that spending time in the middle and building a big partnership
was the order of the day. Both batsmen looked in complete control against
the opening bowlers and quickly put 50 runs on the board. However, when
the change bowlers came on, their spin bowling changed the shape of
the game.
Brockwell was the first to be dismissed, adjudged lbw for 27 off the
bowling of Todd when next season's skipper informed his teammates he
had edged the ball onto his pads. One over later, Gibson was clean bowled
by A. Khan leaving Saints on 61-2 from 11 overs. When Larsen got a beauty,
bowled through the gate by A. Khan the mood on the field had subtly
changed but DMPS Saints were not pressing the panic button just yet.
Still very much on top, it was expected that the remaining Saints batsmen
would play sensibly, wait for the bad ball, and cruise to victory. When
Kishore let himself and his teammates down by playing a totally inappropriate
shot in the context of the game being dismissed for a lowly 2, Saints
were now under unnecessary pressure on 75-4 from 15 overs.
It was left to the "grey brigade" of Muir and Heron to steady
the ship. They consciously blocked out the danger man Khan while scoring
freely from the lesser bowlers at the other end. It only took 7 overs
of this seasoned approach to see DMPS Saints home, Muir finishing undefeated
on 23 and Heron also carrying his bat for 17 not out.
A win is a win and this one gained Saints a much needed 12 points to
maintain their place at the top of the table. However, this performance
was not up to the standards that the team has set itself this season,
neither in the field nor with the bat. Two thorough and effective training
sessions this week will be needed to prepare for next weeks fixture
against Hillhead CC who are also competing for this seasons title.
The Costa Coffee, Dumfries Man of the Match award
went to Ross Marscheider for accurate controlled bowling
that was rewarded with four deserved wickets.
Scores:
Helensburgh CC: 103 all out (D. Stevens 31. C. Larsen 9-3-12-3, D.
Rankine 8-2-24-0, C. Brockwell 6-1-15-1, R. Marscheider 7-3-13-4, J.
Gibson 9-2-31-2) : DMPS St Michael's CC: 104-4. (C. Brockwell 27, D.
Muir 23 n.o., D.Heron 17 n.o., A. Khan 7-2-12-3)
24/07/11
DMPS Saints Complete Cup Upset
DMPS St Michael's travelled to Glasgow last Sunday to play Weirs in
the SCU Trophy, with the tag of underdogs against the National League
side but still confident of maintaining their 100% record for the season.
Weirs had defeated local rivals Dumfries the day before in the SNCL
Championship and fully expected to be travelling back down the M74 for
the next round of the competition to face the Nunholm side in a week's
time.
On arrival the sun was shining. Saints debutant skipper Brockwell won
the toss and decided to bat on what looked like a good pitch. They soon
came to realise that the pitch wasn't as good as it looked, was low
and slow and a score of about 180 would be a very competitive.
Four overs into the match DMPS Saints lost their first wicket when captain
Brockwell played at one too early and chipped it straight to midwicket
for 1 with the score on 7.
Coming off the back of a good innings the day before, Duncan Muir came
put together a good partnership with Gibson who was batting aggressively.
The score moved to 31 off 8 overs before Gibson also played
at one early hitting it to midwicket for a well played 23.
This brought Larsen to the crease and a dour period of the game, Weirs
bringing on their slow bowlers which made it incredibly difficult to
score. Both batsmen stuck in and got whatever runs were available. Larsen
then tried to break the shackles by hitting experienced spinner Ziggy
Young out of the park in the 22nd over and got caught with the score
on 62.
Kishore then tried to put some energy and momentum into the innings
by quick running between the wickets and placing the ball into gaps
before trying one too many improvised shot and getting bowled in the
29th over. This wicket brought a middle order collapse with Shah, Holmes,
Whalen and Muir all going in quick succession, the latter for a very
well made 48. This left the score on 114 for 8.
The biggest partnership of the innings then followed, Marscheider and
Heron which accumulating 43 runs as Marscheider played the most
mature innings of the summer until he was eventually out for 25 in the
49th over with the score on 157. The innings ended with Moss
adjudged quite rightly lbw for 1. Heron was not out for very well made
24 and the DMPS Saints final score was 164.
DMPS Saints then went out into the field knowing they had put a competitive
total on the board. Larsen and Gibson bowled very well without much
luck in their opening spells. Brockwell and Marscheider also bowled
well without much luck until Marscheider got the first breakthrough
on 76, bowling Ashraf for 21. The very next over Brockwell
got one to keep low and trapped Weirs professional Du Plessis lbw
for 0.
Tom Holmes was introduced into the attack knowing if he bowled the right
line and length this was the perfect pitch for him. Holmes duly dismissed
danger man Murray with a very good slower ball for a very good 59 to
make it 106 for 3 but Weirs were very much in command at this stage.
Larsen then got rid of Reddy lbw for 19.
After this the Weirs batting line up crumbled, Holmes and Gibson
picking up the last six wickets for just 32 runs aided by some
aggressive fielding, and somewhat egged on by the good natured but vocal
home crowd. Gibson took two wickets and Holmes got a very well
deserved five-for.
This was a big win for DMPS St Michael's and a great team performance beating
a team in the league above them and setting up a game against local
rivals Dumfries this coming Sunday at Nunholm, where once again the
SNCL side will be strong favourites.
The Allianz Insurance Man of the Match went to Tom
Holmes for his match winning spell of 5 for 29.
DMPS Saint Michael's CC: 164 all out (D. Muir 48, R. Marscheider 25,
D. Heron 24 no ; S Els 10-1-29-3, M Gilchrist 9-0-32-3)
Weirs CC: 143 all out (R. Murray 59 ; T. Holmes 7-0-29-5, J. Gibson
8-1-27-2, C Larsen 8-2-15-1)
06/07/11
Another Quick Victory
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club travelled to picturesque Gatehouse of
Fleet last Saturday to play local rivals Galloway CC with a view to
maintaining their 100% record in the WDCU Premiership.
On the best day since late April – has summer truly arrived?
- Saints old boy and current Galloway captain Pat Druce won the toss
and surprised everyone by choosing to bat, on what initially looked
like a bowler friendly pitch.
Four overs into the match Druce was adjudged lbw from the bowling of
Larsen without scoring to give DMPS Saints their first wicket. An over
later two more wickets had fallen, Joseph bowled by Gibson for 6 and
talented youngster Conn run out without scoring from a Heron direct
hit.
Hullat and Bradley began to repair the damage with a solid partnership
until the younger partner played a poor shot and was caught for 12 runs
at mid on off the ever economical bowling of Rankine. An over later
Bradley joined his teammate in the shed having been bowled round his
legs by Brockwell, again for 12. This left Galloway struggling on 49-5
off 18 overs.
It took another six overs before Saints took their next wicket, Gorman
bowled by Brockwell without troubling the scorers. At the other end,
Carson, another quality Galloway prospect, was constructing a commendable
innings while those around him struggled with the conditions and the
varied DMPS Saints bowling attack.
Ross Marscheider continued his recent return to form with the ball,
claiming Davis-Thorpe lbw and bowling Penrose for two quick wickets.
Foster was enjoying his return to his old home ground and got in on
the act to dismiss the impressive Carson lbw for a solid 16.
Larsen was brought back into the attack and took only two balls to
bowl Murphy for 3 and wrap up the Galloway innings for a total of 88.
On the face of it bowling a team out for this score looks admirable,
but the Saints team gave away 33 extras and a few of the players seemed
to have their minds on fixed and potential fixtures rather than on the
here and now. Before going back into the pavilion, everyone was reminded
that this is not acceptable.
When
DMPS Saints went out to bat, they were welcomed with the sight of Pat
Druce rolling back the years and bowling a hostile spell – the
best bowler faced this year according to Saints Kiwi opening bat Jamie
Gibson. On a very docile pitch, the old war horse showed he still has
plenty left in the tank at this level, claiming Brockwell lbw for 18
for which the latter had no complaints.
Unfortunately for Druce none of the other Galloway bowlers provided
any cutting edge and Gibson and Muir plundered the bowling in quick
fashion. Gibson produced another dominant innings but it was Muir who
took control of the game, smashing the ball to all parts.
When Saints passed the winning post in a mere 17 overs, Gibson had
reached an undefeated 28 and Muir had also carried his bat for 34. Muir's
massive six over mid on, where the ball is still being looked for in
the Galloway Forest was the shot of the day as far as the visitors were
concerned.
It was good to see the batsman take responsibility and provide a more
polished performance than had been shown in the field. This was another
important win towards DMPS Saints ambitions of challenging for the WDCU
Premiership title and competing with the big boys in the SCU Trophy.
Thanks go to the Galloway side for their kind hospitality, in the shape
of a barbecue and a few beers in the Scottish sunshine, a great way
to enjoy the end of a game of cricket.
The John Walker & Son Man of the Match award went
to Duncan Muir for his explosive innings.
Scores:
Galloway CC: 88 all out (R. Carson 16 ; J. Gibson 5-0-22-1, C. Larsen
4.2-0-15-2, C. Brockwell 8-4-12-2, D.Rankine 6-2-6-1, R. Marscheider
6-0-17-2, C.Foster 4-1-8-1)
DMPS St Michael's CC: 89-1 (D. Muir 34 no, J. Gibson 28 no P. Druce
6-1-20-1)
06/07/11
Gibson Steers DMPS Saints to Victory
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club travelled to Irvine last Saturday firstly
in the hope of actually completing a game of cricket without the rain
claiming another victim and secondly, determined to maintain their 100%
record for the season.
On arrival the weather conditions were damp and on inspection the wicket
looked like an old mattress, soft and bumpy. Saints lost the toss and
were asked not surprisingly to bat. It was felt that a score somewhere
in the region of 180-200 posted in the first innings would be very competitive
considering the bowling Saints had at their disposal on the day.
Six overs into their innings, DMPS Saints lost their first wicket.
Gibson and Brockwell had smashed the hosts opening attack to all parts
when they persisted to bowl too short, and when the latter was dismissed
for 21 after missing a leg stump half volley, DMPS Saints total had
raced on to 47.
Muir was the next batsman to the crease and had three scoring shots
including a boundary and maximum until he was adjudged lbw – correctly
according to 10 of the 11 Saints players! – having scored 13.
Larsen
then joined Gibson in the middle and the Kiwi pair proved that they
can play on a featherbed in the lovely Scottish rain, putting together
the biggest and best partnership of the day worth 154 runs. It was particularly
pleasing for both New Zealanders and their teammates to see Gibson reach
his maiden Scottish century and Larsen reach his first half century
while together in the middle.
Following a short break for rain, Larsen was eventually out, again
lbw, for an extremely important 62 runs. This brought Kishore to the
fold with the instruction of getting the side up to a minimum 288 runs
from the 48 overs that would constitute the DMPS Saints innings.
Some big hitting and superb running between the wickets from both batsmen,
saw the Saints total reach 291 with Kishore contributing an undefeated
15. This was a tremendous team effort, where the need for building partnerships
was responsibly met by all the batsmen.
The outstanding performance was that of Gibson with a faultless 160
not out which included twelve fouurs and two sixes. The young Kiwi deserved
all the praise he received from his teammates as he carried his bat
and should be thoroughly proud of his contribution.
With a score in the region of 90 runs above par, DMPS Saints took to
the field in confident mood, but at the same time respectful of the
home side that included two South Africans, one of which attends his
national academy.
28.4 overs later Saints had completed a comprehensive victory over
their hosts, winning by a margin of 203 runs. Irvine's batsmen struggled
with the accuracy and variety of the DMPS Saints attack and five successful
catches. South African pro Avantour looked a class act who obviously
would benefit from batting on a good track every week and contributed
the highest score of 32.
Larsen bowled his usual miserly line and length and used the conditions
to full advantage, claiming three of the first four wickets. The Milkman's
Son had a big hand in the fourth Irvine dismissal with a great throw
and run out from square leg.
Brockwell bowled a tight spell claiming a single wicket with the deadly
full-bunger, while following his batting exploits the quickly fading
Gibson also claimed one victim.
Marscheider and Foster got in on the act with two wickets apiece, Marscheider
getting back to best with some good rhythm in his spell and Foster following
Brockwell's example to entice batsmen to hit full tosses straight to
fielders and wrap up the Irvine innings on 88.
The only bowler not to claim a wicket was the evergreen Rankine, which
was surprising considering the strip looked perfect for the eco-warrior.
However, nobody would bet on Rankine not taking wickets at Galloway
next week.
It is no surprise to anyone that the hat-trick of consecutive Man of
the Match awards went to Jamie Gibson for his undefeated maiden Scottish
century of 160, this week kindly sponsored by Alan Cringean Guitars.
Despite the frustrating weather so far this season, the players are
getting the rewards they deserve for the hard work they put in at training
with both bat, ball and in the field. DMPS Saints are still top of the
table but will need to continue to put in the preparation this week
in order to overcome local rivals Galloway, who will no doubt be looking
for revenge for their 193 run April defeat on Saturday.
Scores: DMPS St Michael's CC: 291-3 (J. Gibson 160no,
C. Larsen 62, C Brockwell 21, A. Kishore 15no) : Irvine: 88 all out
(S Avantour 32. C. Larsen 6-4-15-3, D.Rankine 5-1-21-0, J. Gibson 5-1-12-1,
C. Brockwell 6-2-17-1, R. Marscheider 4-1-10-2, C.Foster 2.4-0-11-2)
27/06/11
Saints Get Out of Jail Free
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club hosted top of the table rivals Prestwick
CC on what started as a beautiful sunny day but quickly deteriorated
into a shocking wet Saturday that is typifying the 2011 season so far.
The start of the game was delayed by 50 minutes and when the Prestwick
skipper Pitt won the toss it was no surprise to anyone when he asked
Saints to bat. DMPS Saints innings was to consist of 43 overs, with
Prestwick's lemgth of innings determined by how much time was left for
them to complete their innings by 8.10 p.m.
These rules give a huge advantage to the side batting second, as run
rate alone takes no calculation into account for wickets in hand. Had
Saints won the toss, they would have done exactly the same as Prestwick
and tried to maximise every advantage. In a normal 50 over a side game
in these conditions, it was felt that a total of 180 would have been
very competitive.
Prestwick's decision to take the field started to pay off after only
seven balls, when DMPS Saints lost their first wicket, Brockwell lbw
to a "grubber" without scoring.
Larsen
joined his countryman Gibson at the wicket and the partnership that
they began to build, soon changed the mood in both camps. Despite having
to come off several times due to rain, the Kiwi pair put on 88 invaluable
runs and when Larsen was adjudged lbw he had scored an excellent 29
runs.
While trying to increase the rate nearer to 5 an over, the Saints middle
order pressed the self destruct button. Muir, Kishore, Heron and Marscheider
collectively scored only a single run, while Farrukh Shah gave his wicket
away when looking good again on 13.
Club stalwart/curmudgeon McKirdle joined Gibson at the wicket and showed
all of his experience as a partnership of over 30 developed. McKirdle
was then bowled for 11, and when Gibson tried to score some quick runs
at the end of the innings was eventually caught at mid off for a superb
knock of 84.
When Rankine was lbw in the penultimate over, DMPS Saints had been
dismissed for 158. Within 5 minutes of the end of the first innings
at 6.40 p.m., everyone was shaking hands as Prestwick did not have sufficient
time to complete an innings by the 8.10 p.m. cut off point in the persistent
rain.
This was a bit of a relief for the Saints camp as due to League rules,
Prestwick had been set a target of a mere 78 runs in 21 overs to win
as long as they were not completely dismissed.
In a good natured , but at the same time competitive match, everyone
agreed that for rain affected matches the team batting second has all
the advantages, so in that sense, DMPS Saints will be the happier of
the two sides.
13/06/11
DMPS Saints Continue Winning Ways
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club travelled to Glasgow to face GHK last
Saturday and despite a severe delay in starting the game, Saints left
the big smoke earlier than expected with a well-deserved win that keeps
the side at the top of the WDCU Premiership table.
The prospect of a delayed start was always on the cards as GHK school
1st X1 had a fixture in the morning. The schoolboy game took five hours
to complete and when DMPS Saints having lost the toss took to the field
at 2.30 p.m., everyone was quite frustrated with the late start.
To the credit of the Saints side, they took this frustration out on
the home side's batsmen on the same strip that had just had 60 overs
played on it. It wasn’t long before DMPS Saints claimed their
first victim, when Gibson had Smillie plumb lbw in the second over.
In the fifth over Larsen claimed his first wicket, clean bowling MacKay
who didn’t trouble the scorers either.
The Kiwi double act continued to constantly trouble the GHK batsmen
on a regular basis with Larsen especially unlucky not to add to his
tally, but it was only when Brockwell got the ball in his hands that
Saints took the third wicket of the day. Brockwell had Kirk sharply
caught by Muir behind the stumps for 12. At this point GHK were struggling
on 15 for 3.
Ross Marscheider got in on the act in his first over claiming S Ahmed
with a beautifully crafted full bunger which the batsmen hit straight
to Brockwell at mid-on! The next batsman to be dismissed was M Ahmed
who smashed a quick and entertaining 18 and was caught at gully by Heron,
again off the bowling of Marscheider. However, Ahmed's efforts were
sullied in the eyes of many, when it appeared he had gloved one to the
keeper, started to walk off, changed his mind and, returning to the
crease stood his ground. All the DMPS Saints players were disappointed
by his actions and equally surprised that he was given not out.
Marscheider
claimed his third and final victim, bowling Iqbal for 1, leaving GHK
on a measly 43 for 6 from 18 overs.
New recruit Tom Holmes, despite a nervous start began to hit a good
line and length. He was fully rewarded when he clean bowled GHK's best
batsman of the day Rana for 18. Gibson was reintroduced to the bowling
and this paid off straight away with two wickets in a single over to
leave the home side in tatters on 59 for 9 in half their allotted overs.
It was left to debutant Holmes to finish off any GHK resistance, again
clean bowling the batsman, this time opposition skipper Anjum. Everyone
at the club feels that these wickets could be the first of many for
Saints from such a talented young prospect.
GHK had been dismissed on their home strip for a paltry 64 and the
bowling performance was simply excellent, ably backed up by the ground
fielding and catching. All five bowlers bowled full and straight with
the work being done at training starting to pay off as only nine extras
were given to the opposition, the best performance of the season so
far.
A quick tea was taken and DMPS Saints sent out openers Brockwell and
Gibson with the instruction of taking their time, knock off the runs,
and give the opposition nothing from the game.
Eleven overs later both batsmen having gained valuable time in the
middle, returned unbeaten, Brockwell on 29 not out and Gibson 28 not
out with 12 points for outright victory comprehensively in the bag.
This was an important win for DMPS Saints as it maintains the momentum
they have built up with four straight wins so far in the 2011 season.
It is hoped that the side can carry this level of performance into a
very important weekend with a top of the table clash versus Prestwick
on Saturday and a SCU Trophy game on Sunday against National League
side Freuchie on Sunday. Both games at Kingholm Park.
The Shed, Annan Man of the Match award went to Jamie
Gibson for his excellent bowling spell with three wickets and
28 not out with the bat.
GHK – 64 all out: M. Ahmed 18, B. Rana 13. C. Larsen 6-3-12-1,
J. Gibson 7-4-3-3, C. Brockwell 7-5-4-1, R. Marscheider 4-0-32-3, T.
Holmes 1.4-0-11-2.
DMPS St Michael's CC – 65-0: C. Brockwell 29 not out, J. Gibson
28 not out.
06/06/11
DMPS Saints Defeat Helensburgh and The Weather
In the only fixture to be completed in the WDCU Premiership last Saturday,
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club comprehensively defeated Helensburgh
CC to maintain their challenge at the top of the table.
On a day when the weather was expected to play a massive part, winning
the toss was going to be a huge advantage. Heavy road works on the M74
meant that opposition arrived after the designated 12.45 p.m. cut off,
so Saints were deemed to have won the toss and asked the weary Helensburgh
team to bat.
In the first over Helensburgh took six runs off opening bowler Corey
Larsen and the prospect of good match looked a real possibility. However,
when Jamie Gibson took the first wicket with his third delivery, it
was the beginning of the end of the match as a competition.
Larsen
dismissed danger man Sawyer in his second over. A direct hit dismissed
Lewis run out in the over after, and then Gibson took two further wickets
to leave the visitors in real trouble on 9-5.
With heavy rain awaited at any minute Saints expected the remaining
Helensburgh batsmen to shut up shop and and hope to see the game abandoned.
However, accurate bowling and some wayward shots saw five more batsmen
dismissed for a mere 19 runs. Derek Rankine took three wickets in a
great spell and Brockwell picked up the remaining two, leaving Helensburgh
all out for 28 in only the 15th over.
A quick turnaround by DMPS Saints saw Brockwell return to his opening
berth together with designated pinch hitter Farrukh Shah.
Two overs and two balls later Saints sealed victory with Brockwell
crashing a no-ball for four through the covers to give Saints 12 points
for the win. However, Farrukh took the batting plaudits smashing both
openers round the park in an ultra-quick 23 not out.
Weather permitting, next week brings the visit of Hillhead CC, led
by well-known overseas player Sachin Chaudrey to Kingholm Park, when
it is anticipated that DMPS Saints will face their toughest challenge
of the 2011 season so far.
The J Walker & Son Man of the Match award went
to Derek Rankine for his quality spell that quickly
killed off the opposition.
Scores
Helensburgh CC: 28 all out. C. Larsen 5-1-10-1, J. Gibson 5-2-8-3,
D.Rankine 2.3-0-2-3, C. Brockwell 2-0-5-2.
DMPS St Michael's CC: 33-0. F. Shah 23 no, C. Brockwell 7 no.
24/05/11
DMPS Saints Thrash Kilmarnock
DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club travelled last Saturday to Kilmarnock
on an overcast day hoping to pick up the maximum 12 points available
for a win and stay in contention at the top of the WDCU Premiership.
Following the demolition of Kilmarnock the Saints players were heading
home after only two hours.
Saints won the toss and chose to bowl on what can only be politely
described as a green bowler-friendly track.
The game was effectively over as a competition three overs later as
the Kiwi assassins, Larsen and Gibson ripped out the top four Kilmarnock
batsmen for a mere four runs, none of them off the bat! Gibson got his
third and final wicket an over later to leave Kilmarnock in the mire
on 12-5.
The bowling attack was appropriately rotated. First, Marscheider and
Zaheer Abbas bowled with better rhythm this week and both were unlucky
not to pick up any wickets. Next it was the turn of Foster and the returning
prodigal son Brockwell, Foster picking up two wickets in an over (then
getting taken off!) and Brockwell producing one of the balls of the
season so far to dismiss Nimbley.
Having trudged from fine leg to fine leg it was the turn of club stalwart
and eco-warrior Derek Rankine to bowl with Kilmarnock eight down for
44 runs. It took "Swampy" only two deliveries to wrap up the
hosts' innings.
Although not the best opposition seen so far this season, the DMPS
Saints bowlers acquitted themselves well, bowling tight disciplined
lines, which they will need to continue throughout the season. Particular
credit must also go to the returning Farrukh Abbas for some excellent
keeping on a very difficult pitch.
Saints switched that batting order around to give some key players
time in the middle and knock the runs off quickly so the impending wet
weather could not have an impact on the result.
Gibson
and Farrukh strode to the wicket and it was the latter who decided that
attack was the order of the day despatching the evergreen Pasha over
mid off for a maximum in just the third over. Farrukh continued to play
aggressively and was unlucky to be the only Saints wicket to fall when
Pasha got his revenge, appearing like magic – or perhaps out of
the warmth of one of the cars – at deep mid on to pouch a catch
from the bowling of Raine.
It was left to Brockwell to score the winning run to give DMPS Saints
a very comfortable win and with it the 12 points that will keep them
at the top of the table.
Next week brings the visit of Helensburgh CC to Kingholm Park, where
it is hoped with some hard work and preparation at training this week,
the side can maintain their 100% record with a win and confirm their
credentials as genuine title challengers this year.
The Troqueer Garage Man of the Match award went to
Farrukh Abbas for his superb glovework and attacking
innings of 27.
17/05/11
DMPS Saints Frustrated By Rain
DMPS St Michael's travelled to Glasgow last Saturday to play an Academicals
side that were high on confidence having thrashed Helensburgh the week
before. Unfortunately, the only winner on the day was the wet weather
that saw the game abandoned after only 25 overs.
At the start of the day, Saints won the toss and chose to bowl on a
wicket that, although hard, looked like it had something in it for the
bowlers. Opening bowlers Larsen and Marscheider produced two quite different
opening spells. Whilst Larsen produced accurate and dangerous deliveries
that continually troubled all the batsmen, Marscheider didn't.
Larsen picked up two wickets for the loss of only eight runs in his
five over spell, while change bowlers Gibson and Foster picked up a
single wicket each. New recruit Zaheer Navqi bowled well in his first
spell for the club, conceding only nine runs in his four over spell,
and was unlucky not to have Dawson caught behind.
When the game was finally abandoned in the 25th over, Glasgow Accies
had moved on to 92-4. The game was in the balance at this stage and
a good game was in prospect, but Saints will feel they let their hosts
off the hook too many times with some wayward and undisciplined bowling
just when the pressure should have been stepped up.
DMPS Saints travel to Kilmarnock this Saturday, buoyed by the return
of last years player of the year Chris Brockwell, who will be looking
to help the side secure their second win of the season and maintain
their 100% record.
Score
Glasgow Accies: 92-4: Dawson 18, Andrew 16. Larsen 5-3-8-2, Marscheider
5-0-34-0, Foster 5-1-19-1, Gibson 6-0-21-1, Navqi 4-1-9-0.
15/05/11
Comprehensive Derby Victory
Last Saturday DMPS St Michael's Cricket Club played hosts to local
rivals Galloway in the first game of the 2011 WDCU Premiership season
and ran out comprehensive winners.
On a belting track on the new Kingholm square, Saints skipper Heron
had no hesitation in batting first on winning the toss.
DMPS Saints old boy Druce and talented youngster Conn opened the bowling
for Galloway and used what small amount of early movement there was,
making scoring difficult for the Saints' openers.
Heron and Gibson seemed to have weathered the early storm, when in
the fifth over Gibson was harshly adjudged lbw off the bowling of Druce
when it was clear to many that the Kiwi had hit the ball before it cannoned
into his pads.
What was to follow was the partnership of the day as Heron and Muir
amassed 184 runs in one of the biggest partnerships in the club's illustrious
history between two home-grown players. When Muir was eventually dismissed
for a superb 65, the Saints' total had moved on to a considerable 203-2
in the 42nd over.
Corey Larsen came to the crease and played aggressively, increasing
the run rate just at the right time, adding 36 quick runs in just five
overs. When Larsen was dismissed, with DMPS Saints on 244, Kishore picked
up the quick scoring rate baton to help the side finish on 287-3 off
their allotted 50 overs, one maximum over midwicket off Druce being
the highlight.
Skipper Heron batted the full 50 overs, scoring a career best 125 not
out and Kishore was also unbeaten on 12 not out.
With such a large score on the board, DMPS Saints could afford to set
attacking fielding positions and this paid off early, as Larsen ripped
through the Galloway top order, taking three wickets in the first five
overs.
At the other end, Gibson was constantly troubling the batsmen without
getting any reward. After ten overs, Galloway were languishing on 21-3.
Change bowlers Foster and Chaudrey bowled economically following the
instructions of their skipper and while not taking wickets kept the
opposition run-rate well below what was required.
When Larsen was introduced back into the attack in the 23rd over it
paid immediate dividends, as two more quick wickets fell, most importantly
that of Druce for a commendable 55. Galloway were now struggling on
90-5. Fellow Kiwi Gibson also returned to copy his Wellington mate,
deservedly taking two quick wickets in his return over, then his third
and final wicket in the next over.
Chaudrey then took his first two wickets for DMPS Saints ending the
Galloway innings on 94, securing the home side a 193 run victory and
more importantly, 12 League points for a win.
This was an important confidence building win for the home side. It
is hoped that the side can carry this level of performance into the
next league game, a difficult away fixture against Glasgow Accies this
coming Saturday.
The A C Eggleton & Co Ltd Man of the Match award
went to Saints' skipper Derek Heron for his and the
team's maiden century of the season.
St Michael's Cricket Club Website by
Colin Taylor
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