Captains presentation of `The Weapon`
(from the left S.O'Neill receiving from D.Bhakoo)
Marauders made it two from two last Saturday at Mclennan Park when they faced-off against their sister team the Crusaders for the second encounter of this series of challengers, for `THE WEAPON` trophy.
Skipper Shane (two L's) O'Neill won the toss and elected to bat, a steady start from the top order saw the Marauders around the 100 mark for 1 at drinks. Some accurate bowling lead by the Crusaders Navpreet Saini and skipper Deepak Bhakoo saw the Crusaders put pressure on the batting line-up.
Seeking quick runs the Marauders threw caution to the wind which equated to losing wickets at crucial times, this culminated with them reaching a total of 185 all out in the 40th over.... Shane O'Neill,Mike Bongard ,Rick Eastham contributing to this total.
Once again the `Old Boys Brains Trust`thought that this was about 20 runs shy of a competitive total.
The Crusaders start to the run chase went poorly, Bruce (not LBW..?) Page bowling with his normal sharp penetration,cunning and guile coupled with Bernie Coombe (his partner in crime)adding the perfect foil at the other end, this saw the top part of the order back in the pavilion in very quick time.
Some mid order resistance was shown by the Crusader batsmen but tight and attacking bowling from Adam (Nail) Dunn and Alex Johnston in particular saw the Marauders home..... Crusaders 112 all out in 35th over.
Although this now puts both sides even for wins for the trophy (obviously the Marauders have bragging rights and hold `THE WEAPON` over the Xmas break) here's one rabbit that doesn't think it is all plain sailing for them.
I'm sure that the next challenge (early next year) by the Crusaders will see Skipper Bhakoo working hard with his band of youthful talent for improvements,and that they will front the next game full of commitment and desire.
For the Marauders once again getting 11 on the field at the start of the game would be a pleasant change for skipper O'Neill, Although the success has been gratefully accepted "two Swallows don't make a Summer" ........
Maybe a little more effort in how to hold catches will be a big discussion point at the next `Breakfast Club` as most of the bowlers have felt the brunt of `Butter fingers` on the field of play this season.
Till the next instalment of the continuing battle ....May your Christmas be full of good will and cheer (..not to much you Marauder Old Boys!!..) look after yourselves and be kind to one another....
.......The Paw......(author of rumour and speculation)