As the euphoria of the promotion season of 2003
finally crept into our collective reminiscence the Premier challenge of 2004
came rushing in Paul Horton was again in charge of cricket matters on the pitch
and Vin Mane returned in the form of his life for Mumbai and West Zone.
The development of the Premier League K.O has become
an excellent pre-season work out in recent years. Our 3 games brought the
disappointment of rain at Bootle whilst well placed; defeat at Ormskirk and a
solid victory at home to Maghull.
The benefits of such competitive games was quickly
demonstated as we lost only 2 games in the first half of the season. Wins
against Southport, Leigh, Ormskirk and New Brighton elevated us to a top four
position; one we held until the closing fortnight of the season. By mid August
further victories over Maghull, Northern and Ormskirk put us third with 6 games
to go. The disappointment of no more victories after then gave us the jitters
but our finishing position of 7th was our highest Premier League
placing in 4 attempts.
The batting was very reliant on Vin and Paul. Chris
Nicholas contributed much with bat and gloves and should push on in the future.
Ben Moore, Phil Disley, Chris Whelan and Rob Houghton had their moments but were
not consistent enough to take pressure off the other three.
Wickets were shared around with Dave Poskitt, Howard
Parker and Stuart Wade taking the lion’s share. Howard was on target for a big
season until injury robbed him of 5 games at the end. Vin Mane and Chris Whelan each weighed in with a 5 for and Vin’s
strike rate was excellent. He will bowl
more I am sure in the future. Rob Houghton was steady and will return to the
top of the wicket taking list very soon.
Our cup season was unspectacular. The Echo K.O
defeat with a very under strength but committed side at Bootle was to be
expected. Our Comp K.O defeat at Liverpool was deserved and totally avoidable.
They were the better side on the day.
We did reach the regional semi of the National and lost narrowly to
Chorley; another game that got away.
Watching both Chris Whelan and Paul Horton make
County debuts on television last season were great moments for our club and
local cricket. We are all very proud of them and we wish them well in the
future.
The club had a very successful year last season. The
2nd team bounced straight back under Captain Delve and won the 2nd
team Division one title. A marvellous effort. The 3rd team under
Terry Cordner won the Cup in great style and finished 2nd to a very
strong Ormskirk team. The 4th team, like the 2nd team,
bounced back at the first time of asking under Colonel Foulder. They finished
second to Maghull and will rejoin the 3rd team in the top division.
Last but not least the Sunday X1 under Peter
Hazlehurst also finished 2nd and were promoted to the top
division. An excellent club year
resulting in all 5 senior sides playing top division cricket in 2005.
Thanks must go as always to many people;
Paul Horton, Steve Delve, Terry Cordner, Paul
Foulder, Peter Hazlehurst and Stu Marshall-Clarke for their work in producing
cricket teams every week.
Mike, Charlie, Andy and Dave for the ground
preparation and weekend support.
Dave Cunningham, Mo, Dave Fleming, Nicky, Jan K,
Carol and any other bar staff I have forgotten.
Dave Finnan, Chrissie, Joe, Marilyn and all the
catering staff.
Mike Poole, Raz, Jean, Judge John, Bob P, Ron Ash,
Dave D and Tom Hughes for their sterling support over the year.
The Quarry brigade for their constant banter and
support and to Liverpool Ladies for brightening up many a Saturday afternoon!!!
Howie Baird, Mick Foster, Dave Whelan, Paul Newton ,
Joe Nelson and all other parents helping to run our successful youth section.
If
I have missed anybody sincere apologies. But don’t fret for long; The 2005
season will soon be her and we will have to do it all again!
Stuart Wade Cricket Chairman