Impressive Seaford 2s End Season On A High

Seaford 2s made the short journey inland to Alfriston looking to end the season on a victorious note, knowing that even winning probably wouldn't get them in the top two.

Seaford were asked to bat first on beautifully sunny day, Patrick McCaughan (20) again looking in form early doors on an interesting wicket, not quite the bounce that we have seen back at the Salts this season. The early loss of Jon Reynolds for 8 knocked Seaford off a bit. Some rebuilding was then done by Patrick and Owen Edmonds, before Edmonds fell choosing the wrong wicket to go back on. After this there was a steady stream of wickets leaving Seaford in the precarious postion of 87 for 6. This brought got together Mitch Ellingham, who made a fine 57, and Jon Pitts, who again showed what a powerful hitter he is blasting 6s to all corners of Alfriston, 7 in total in his 78. This partnership put on 107 to turn the game back in Seaford's favour. When they went another improvised last wicket partnership of 35 between Jolly John Smith and the Busy Ben Harvey got Seaford to an impressive 263 on a sticky wicket and slow outfield. Seaford were happy with this total after being 87-6. Three wickets a piece for Douglas and Crowhurst was the highlight for the bowling side.

Alfriston set off in slow pursuit with some tight early overs from Smith and Ellingham. Chuter went early doors, cleaned up by Jolly John, but Alfriston then rallied with 50 a peice for Jon Oakes and Chris Walker. A solid 29 from Seaford junior Aaron Smith, who plays his adult cricket at Alfriston.

Ben Harvey recovered well from an expensive first over and Oli Harvey again bowled an excellent tight spell, both a little unlucky not to get amongst the wickets. At the second drinks break Alfriston were just about in touch if someone came out and found a few boundaries. After some strong words from the skipper Seaford upped their game, wickets falling at regular intervals, mainly due to Deiniol Cummins, who was now finding his form and bagged 4-23. A first bowl of the season for Patrick McCaughan was welcomed by the visitors. The biggest cheer of the day came when he rearranged Jeremy Bowers stumps. An end of season over for Jonty Reynolds against former team mate Tim Hurst didn't bring him his customary wicket.

Alfriston got themselves another batting point in the last over. A good natured game with an excellent tea to boot to finish the league season well.

Seaford's run of 7 wins out of 8 to finish the season wasn't quite enough to finish in the top two for the automatic promotion they desperatly wanted. Left to rue the month of June when poor availabilty throughout the club contributed to four succesive defeats, which the 2s just couldn't recover from.

Thanks to all those who have played throughout the season. Thanks also to Phil Lovesay and Simon Lewis for their umpiring and scoring. Thanks to Geoff Beal and Phil Lovesay for all their hard work on the square and all the tea ladies, our teas having been excellent all season and which received many compliments from the opposition. All adds to a great match day experience.

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