Hertford 4s Win Again Against Bayford & Hertford

It did a decent enough job which left the ground playable on another Saturday where there were a number of matches cancelled.

With skipper Nick Horton out injured, all rounder Rich Eaton captained the side and had an immediate impact, winning the toss and inserting Bayford on what was still a ‘wet one’

Bayford started cautiously against Ahl and Gardner and then Benham and Bartlam. Runs were hard to come by, as were wickets! At drinks Bayford had progressed to around 80 without loss. The game turned shortly after drinks with a brilliant bit of fielding from Oran Riddle, the batsman drastically underestimating the strength of Oran’s arm as a bullet throw came in from the deep and he was run out. Wickets did then start to fall, the most notable being an excellent stumping by Rob Wood of Shiva’s first ball which was also given as a wide!!

Some late hitting enabled Bayford to progress to 183 from their 45 overs. The Bayford opener remained unbeaten on 68. Particular mention to Alex Bartlam who as ever bowled excellently with his 9 overs going for just 19 as well as exceptional keeping from Rob Wood.

In response, Hertford opened with veteran Graeme Riddle and Rob Wood. Both made slow but steady progress as the drizzle set in which made for unpleasant viewing conditions for the spectators who had gathered (mainly 3rd teamers back early after a stuffing!) Riddle eventually went for 32 and was quickly followed by Simon Jones which left Hertford wobbling a little and marginally behind the run rate.

Oran Riddle came to the wicket though and batted sensibly, blocking the good balls and despatching the bad ones. Rob Wood similarly started to accelerate before he finally fell for 70 which left Oran and Adam Marnoch at the crease to complete the victory for Hertford. Another good all round performance by the 4ths who consolidated their position at the top of the league. Next weekend brings Great Gaddesden to Balls Park who are just behind us in the league and should provide a stiff test of Hertford’s ambitions!

Author: Richard Eaton