With 8 days of the season left there is still so much to play for and after a successful match on Saturday at Marple the Cheshire Cup final came to Filkins lane. Macclesfield were the opposition arriving on the back of their previous days promotion. The wicket looked flat and after winning the toss Macc skipper Nick Ross elected to bat. The away team had a good travelling support ready to get behind their team.

Chester opened the bowling with big Josh Henderson and Jordan Clarke, and they set to the task of getting into the top order. Henderson as ever was a real handful managing to get the early wicket of Marsden caught behind by the keeper Rowland. Birchell was going hard for Macclesfield he went hard and found the boundary on several occasions Clark fought back and drew the mistake giving us another early wicket. Henderson got Rob Porter bringing captain Ross and Jack Ward together. Both looked to get the scoreboard moving, Ross looked In excellent touch and Dixon brought Williams into the attack at the Fleet end to try and draw another mistake. Then the turning point of the match, Ross smashed the ball hard towards the gap at extra cover and set off for a run, Warren Goodwin dived full length stoped the ball one hand then threw the stumps down. Direct hit and danger man removed. 4 down. Goodwin was in the game and was bowling well, Ward seemed unimpressed by one of his own supporters behind the side screen after a small break the first ball castled the stumps. Killoran and Williams were now in tandem and the young spinners were bowling aggressively with catchers around the bat. Wickets fell regularly ending up with Macclesfield being bowled out for just 103. Killoran with four wickets and Williams with 1.

After a lovely outside cricket tea, many spectators wondered how the Chester batting line would attack the small total.

Well the answer was positively, Rowlands and Goodwin got the scoreboard moving hitting the ball all around the ground. Rowland was pumped up with his family in strong attendance and his little boy Noah watching on the Wirral man passed 50 off just 32 balls. Chester past the total in just 15overs without the losing a wicket. Rowland 68* and Goodwin 38* batted beautifully on a very good Chester wicket.

Thank you for all the support yet again and to caterers Phil and the team, plus the cornel and the bar team. Great work.

Man of the match at the presentation went to Rowland.

1XI - Marple (A)

Chester travelled to Marple on Saturday still chasing Hyde in the Cccl. After a delayed start due to rain Cheater won the toss and elected to bowl on a grass looking wicket.

Henderson and Clarke took the new ball and were a real handful from ball one. The wicket was offering plenty. Brisbane quickie Henderson was the man again taking the first 6 wickets. Chester fielded and caught well. Marple's captain Bennett and their overseas Whittaker put together a good partnership and pushed towards 100. Goodwin added a few wickets before Henderson finished the innings off for 123.

Chester never do well batting at Marple so were keen to get the scoreboard moving. Rowland 20, Goodwin 31 and Clarke 29 all moved the score close. Before Law and Ross Dixon closed the innings out getting 21* and 14* respectively.

1XI - Oxton (A) - Cheshire Cup Semi Final

This delayed match was a 30 over affair, Chester had made the most of the delay doing some fielding practice overseen by club professional Jordan Clark.

After winning the toss Chester bowled first on a green damp wicket. Josh Henderson and Jordan Clark blew away the youthful looking Oxton top order only Luke Filer and Alex Money showing real counter punches. After the openers had finished their 6 overs Cheshire spin pair Killoran and Williams came on and finished the job. Killer with 4 and Jacko 2 leaving us 64 to win.

Tea was fabulous as ever, the girls in the OCC kitchen doing a great job.

Chester opened up with Rowland and Gilson, Rowland departed quickly to the dangerous Fernando after a good high catch from keeper Fennah. Ogilby joined Gilson and the two ex Captains to great responsibility on a very tough surface. They put on 50 before Ogilby was run out after a good piece of fielding for 30. Gilson saw the Jo home with Oli Law ending on 26 and 4 respectively.

Now to look forward to the final next Sunday and keeping hold of a trophy which we currently hold.

Good day at the office. Thank you to the spectators who come down.

Around the town.

1XI - Urmston (H)

Saturday 30th August seen the Manchester based Urmston to the fortress of Filkans Lane. With an overcast day ahead with showers expected Urmston would the toss and chose to bat first.

With Urmston opening the batting with veterans Syddall and the inform Turner, the Manchester based side got off to a very shakey start losing a couple of early wickets Syddall being caught off Lancashire's 2020 specialist Clark and happy Henderson getting the better of the Australian battle by removing Turrel to a outstanding return catch off his own bowling. The introduction of South African Warren Goodwin into the attack with some disciplined bowling removed both the dangerous Turner caught at mid on for 39 and Panda for 17. After some lusty blows from the lower order of Downes and Edginton it was left to a brace from Jack Williams and a second burst from Josh Henderson who recorded figures of 4-42.

After a splendid tea by the Chester BH caterers, Rowland and Goodwin took to the field with a positive mind set with the chance or showers looming. With Goodwin edging through to the keeper early and Dunbavand giving a sharp chance to second slip, It was left to Rowland stroking the ball to the ropes and skipper Dixon bludgeoning the ball to all parts of the ground. The score soon raced to 81 before Rowland's arch nemesis JB Khan removed him blowing down a raspberry of a ball which Rowland poorly gifted the deep square leg fielder catching practice. Dixon the dinosaur carried on his fine striking throwing his tail into every ball finally being caught for a excellent 51 ball 76. After a late flurry of wickets from Adam Syddall it was left to stiggy Dixon to kick the ball over the line and get Chester a much needed 25 points to try and ensure a second place finish.

1XI - Northern (H) - National T20 Quarter Finals

Chester’s 1st XI welcomed Northern Cricket Club to Filkins Lane for a winner takes all match to win the right to play in the National T20 finals day at Northamptonshire County Cricket Club live on Sky Sports. The team was abound with nervous energy and excitement, a few members of the team in the nets 2 hours before the start to prepare for the game. Northern, along with their supporters, arrived en masse not long after and the fans soon created a fantastic atmosphere around the pavilion.

The wicket was a bit more bowler friendly than the ones played on at Chester in previous rounds due to the rain over the previous week. However, skipper Lee Dixon chose to take first use and try to put some added scoreboard pressure on the opposition batters. Rolo and Warren took to the crease with Jim Law DJing over the ground from the clubhouse. The opening partnership was worth 24 before Rolo was bowled by left arm spinner, Sephton for 7 in the 3rd over. Enter Lee Dixon who took the game to the Northern bowlers, hitting 5 sixes in his 23 ball 42. Both Lee and Warren, 31, were dismissed in quick succession by the pick of the Northern bowlers, Ryan Maddock - Ollie Law and Ross Dixon set about trying to rebuild the innings while keeping the momentum provided at the top of the order. While neither timed the ball with their usual ease, they both rotated the strike well and ran hard between the wickets. When Ollie was last man out for 31 in the last over, they had added 61 together and had guided Chester to 152-4, a total that would perhaps be under par on a typical Chester wicket, but was believed to be defendable on this occasion.

Knowing they had to be positive to take advantage of the 6 over powerplay at the beginning of the innings, Northern openers Lucas and Smith looked to take the attack to Warren, Lucas hitting his, and the innings’, first two balls to the boundary. Taking the pace off at the other end and finding some turn, Harry was harder to get away for the batsmen, bowling the opening 4 overs from one end for just 9 runs while getting the key wicket of Lucas, who had hit Ross’ opening delivery for a huge 6 into the canal, in the process. Rolo and Jack carried on the spin theme of the innings in the middle overs, Jack dismissing Smith and number 3 Walling for 32 and 27 respectively to leave Northern on 79-3 with 7 overs to go. The game was starting to turn Chester’s way but still firmly in the balance. Rolo managed to dismiss Sephton, who had just cleared the ropes and captain Cole before Warren returned to join the wickets, taking 2, while Ross picked up 1. Northern finishing the innings on 123, Chester winning by 29 runs to book their place in the final 4.

1XI - Nantwich (A)

On arrival at Nantwich, the prospects of play looked pretty ominous following persistent rainfall throughout the morning. However following efforts by both teams and an early tea, an 80 over game began at 2.40pm.

Chester lost the toss and where asked to bat, early difficult conditions contributed to a steady flow of wickets throughout the first 20 overs with the score reaching 72-5. The exception to this was Warren who batted patiently on his way to 43 including six boundaries; he was however run out by the Nantwich keeper after attempting a quick single leaving Chester at 90-6 with twelve overs remaining. These final overs proved to be fruitful for the batting side with Ross Dixon (44*) and a run a ball 36 from Jack Williams resulted in Chester reaching a seemingly above par 170 from their 40 overs.

Following a quick innings turn around, Chester quickly got into their stride with Nantwich reduced to 12-3 from 7 overs with Sam Mallows (2-22) picking up two early wickets. Australian Josh Henderson (6-45) built on his excellent form taking his second six wicket haul in as many matches including three clean bowled and an LBW. Nantwich were dismissed for 92 from 32 overs with Jack Williams getting two wickets also. A comprehensive win in the end by 78 runs leaves Chester with nine straight victories in all competitions but still trailing behind Hyde in the league.

1XI - Alderley Edge (A)

Alderley Edge were the visitors to Filkins Lane on Saturday looking to do the double over Chester after their victory in the reverse fixture earlier in the year. Without captain Lee Dixon, Warren took over the reins to try to guide us to a victory to keep our title hopes alive.

Alderley skipper Alan Day elected to take first use of a wicket that looked like it would offer early assistance to the seam bowlers. Josh struck early but a good partnership between Day and Worrall took them to 40-1 off 10. The introduction of Sam Mallows slowed run rate and built some excellent pressure of the usually free scoring Worrall. The combination of his line and length bowling with Josh bowling with pace and hostility at the other end reduced Alderley to 66-5 after 20 overs. Edges number 6 decided to fight fire with fire and took the attack to the Chester bowlers, combining some good shots with a bit of good fortune before succumbing to Williams' leg spin for 31 off 23 to raise the total along with young left hander James Scott to 148-8. Enter Cook who along with Aussie O'Brien put on 96 for the 9th wicket, Cook with an aggressive knock of 71 from 54 balls. A few missed chances cost us from dismissing Alderley for a low total as the inning came to a close on 247-9. Josh Henderson bowled superbly for his 6-89 off 22. Mallows finishing with 1-22 off 8 on his comeback to the first team.

Rollo went off like a train at the start of the reply, hitting 35 off 25 balls before being first man out in the 7th over with the score on 40. Guy and Warren then looked to set a platform for the rest of the innings. Both batting somewhat within themselves, ticking the scoring along at 3/4 an over knowing they could accelerate when the time was right. They took the score up to 100 when Guy was out LBW to off spinner Reid for 25. When Warren was dismissed for 55, 139 on the board and about 20 overs to go, the game was in the balance. Ollie Law, after a frantic search during the morning for a long blade cricket bat which led him to purchase an 'Anthem Power Ranger', and Jordan carried on where the previous partnerships left off, hitting the big shots where necessary to take us over the line with 2 overs to go. Jordan finished 79*, Ollie 50*.

Next up in the league for CBHCC is an away trip to Nantwich.

1XI - Toft (A)

Chester travelled to league high fliers Toft - who, before the weekend were one place front of the champions in the league standings at 2nd. Therefore this was recognised as a crucial game for Chester and an exciting one for the neutral.

Winning the toss Chester put Toft into a bat on a good looking wicket. There were rumours from various sources that jack Williams had been warming up bowling his military medium; 1st XI skipper Lee Dixon confirmed this to be true as Josh and jack (bowling seam up) opened the bowing. This brave move nearly worked as jack had an opportunity of a played on his first delivery. However the toft openers batted well weathering the storm of Chester's very own "wizard of Oz" Josh Henderson. Williams then, Sobers like, switched to his spin which got the wicket of promising youngster James Drummond. Chester kept the pressure on as Josh and jack bowled tightly however the next wicket came from a run out of Tofts number 3 Blackburn ran out by Guy Dunbavand. At this moment Killoran was introduced into the attack and tore through Tofts middle order finishing with 5 wickets. Yet throughout Tofts innings Australian Jake Hancock batted all the way through for 123, and was supported well by number 11 Cornes with 24*. Toft finished on 206.

In reply Chester got off to rocky start with Goodwin going for 1. This brought in youngster Guy Dunbavand to bat with Rowlands the left right hand combination batted superbly and put on a 100 partnership. Dunbavand then fell for a useful 27. This brought in Lee Dixon who wasted no time when coming in and was able to attack the spinners after the solid foundations built from Dunbavand and Rowlands. Dixon hit a run a ball 36 hitting 14 from his first 5 balls. Throughout this Rowlands batted imperiously for a 106, with many of his typical flamboyant on show for all to see. Also plaudits must also go to Olly Law who graced to 27* at the end and was a patient watcher at the other end as Rowlands was stuck on 99 for umpteenth balls.

Overall a great win for Chester at a place which many teams have struggled against a strong youthful toft team. Special mentions must go to Killoran who took 5 and Rowlands who got his first Chester league hundred and the team’s first of the year.

1XI - Grappenhall (A)

After Thursday's echo victory over high flying Ormskirk the spirits were high ahead of a tough trip to Grappenhall. With Jordan Clark and Guy Dunbavand unavailable Francis Robson and Matt Griffiths came into bolster the ranks. Captain Dixon won the toss on a wicket which looked very bowler friendly in its appearance, the batting first tactic went out of the window and into the field we went.

Josh Henderson took the new ball, encouraged by the wicket and the sun on his back it did not take long for him to take the first wicket, Parkinson strangled down the leg side taken well by Rowlands. After an over of Spin from Killoran, Francis Robson took the ball from the pavilion end straight away found a length which seem to have the home team in a lot of bother. He also got on the score sheet with a ball that nipped back cleaning up the number 3. In tandem the pair were working well, Henderson in particular charging in on a warm day caused problems every time the ball was in his hand. He added two more scalps before the end of his first spell. Williams replaced Robson, and took just a few balls to remove Captain Richard Green a low full toss caught at mid off. 50/5 enter Ian Barnes. The next hour was truely something, the Grappenhall number 7 got off the mark with a 6 and that set the tone as he hit the ball clean and long to every part of the ground. Unusually the three pronged spin attack found it hard to bowl with their usual consistency and a seamer was needed to stem the run flow. 120/5 Lee Dixon comes on to try and break the home momentum, he took only a few overs to trap his first wicket lbw. Henderson gave another burst at the top end, until Williams followed. Dixon grabbed his second caught and bowled, while Williams spun one off the end to Jim Gilson at slip, Barnes was still in and scoring. At 8 down the field dropped back to Barnes, and he still sailed a couple over the rope, but on 89 he went for another 6 off Dixon only to find his brother Ross on the Long off boundary. Number 11 followed quickly Dixon ending up with 4, Henderson 3. 157 all out.

Chester set about the target with Goodwin and Rowland, the latter looking to continue from his hundred on Thursday. The home side made it difficult in the first ten overs. Goodwin looked solid while Rowland rode his luck while scoring quickly. The longer the pair batted the quicker the runs came, Goodwin taking a fancy to the spin brought on at the top end. He reached 50 first and Rowland was on the verge of joining him until he got stumped for a good 48. Another good score from the popular keeper bat. The good travelling support all delighted that Darlo was at the match, were delighted to see Matthew Griffiths stride out at 3 at a ground which he batted so well at the year before. Goodwin went for the kill and boundaries were flowing, Griffiths managed a couple of his own including a sumptuous cover drive. With a huge six Goodwin had a 100 in sight, and with one to win and him on 94* he tried his best to make three figures but ending the game with a single into the leg side. A great performance 95 off 68 balls.

So a 9 wicket win which keeps us right on the tail of the leaders.

1XI - Ormskirk (H) - Echo KO

The scene was set on a hot summer night for a heavy weight clash between the top of the Liverpool Comp and current Cheshire League Champions Chester at Filkins Lane, with conditions perfect for a T20 a flat track and a fast outfield. Chester won the toss and elected to bat with Goodwin and R. Dixon taking their spots at the top of the order.

Dixon yet again got us off to a flier taking 14 off the first over, Goodwin went early finding a deepish mid-off for 1. Rowland and Dixon got the innings moving with some decent overs and put on 55 before Ross was dismissed for 26 off 21 balls. Rowland was really starting to motor hitting the ball cleanly all-round the ground, and with Captain Lee Dixon joining him the score moved on sharply, Dixon taking one over 18 including one of his long straight sixes. He went caught in the deep for 26 off 19, with the score on 127/3 the scene was set for the inform Moreton based keeper batsman to let loose. The next five overs were a master class of touch and power, with two balls left in the innings, he punched the ball through cover passing the fielder and taking him to a 60 ball 100, he celebrated with an explosion of joy and was widely applauded by a good crowd which had gather at the famous Filkins lane ground. Finishing on 188/5 off 20 overs, meant it was certainly a good score to defend and knew that a strong Ormskirk side would come out swinging.

Henderson opened the bowling, the first over a maiden was right on the money, bowling with a very good rhythm and pace. At the other end Harry Killoran took the new ball, and as ever seem to get straight to work getting into the opposition batting line up. Chester made a clinical start taking early wickets at regular intervals, Killoran taking 2 and Henderson 1 with the score 20/3. Ross and Jack Williams came into the attack and as the run rate started to rise wickets started to fall Dixon 1 and Williams 2, this was also aided by to excellent run outs by Killoran and a direct hit from Lee Dixon 65/8. As the game was slipping away from Ormskirk their lower order made a spirted effort to add runs to their score. With finals day around the corner Goodwin tested his injured side and is making good progress in stepping up to full bowling. Plus Lee Dixon got through 2 overs 1/1. The innings finished at 117/9 a 71 run victory.

Great support on from the members again and all the Bridge Inn boys who stayed again to follow the boys. Now New Brighton away in the Semi Final.

1XI - Hyde (H)

With weather warning and grey skies everywhere chance of play at Filkins lane on Saturday would have been seen as bleak at best. With co-operation with the visiting Captain Dan Berry and umpires we were able to get a game in after plenty of mopping up from 9am and the superb covers which the club has. After an early tea it was agreed to get going at 3.15pm with a 35 over a side match, the toss went against us meaning we were asked to bat and making a win difficult knowing 10 wickets in the second innings would be tough.

The Chester innings did not start to plan with the inform Rowland going early, followed quickly by Lancashire’s Jordan Clark who got a nasty ball early on. When Goodwin leg glanced one to the keep it was looking bleak. Captain Dixon took the fight to the Hyde attack for a while on his way to 30 before a reckless shot brought his innings to an end. After Law was out for 9 it was left to Gilson and Ross Dixon to try and rebuild the innings. Ross started the rebuilding job in his own fashion finding the boundary regularly, meanwhile Gilson started to find his rhythm. When Dixon hold out to long off for 34 and Gilson departure late in the innings for 46 it was left to Henderson and Killoran to get us up to a decent score of 161/9 off 35 overs.

Will the little rain break during the Chester Innings Hyde had 31 Overs to chase the target on a wicket which was improving as the day went on, Henderson and Clark took the new ball and the latter managed to get rid of both Hyde openers Brierly and Fitzsimmons early with good catches from slip fielder Williams. Duffy and Tipper managed to put a partnership together and though a big appeal against Duffy went on deaf ears both players went about their business playing the seamers well and taking the score on, With the game seemingly slipping from Chesters grasps Spin partnership Killoran and Williams got brought into the action and managed to stem the run flow and put some pressure on the Hyde pair. Killoran got rid of Tipper with a sharp caught and bowled and almost straight away Berry was run out after a mix up with Duffy. With the score on 91 Jack Williams got the big wicket, Cheshire skipper Duffy trying to go over long on found Guy Dunbavand on the end taking a good catch. With 4 overs left Dan Williams and Matt Hanna Needed 40 off the last 4 overs, Williams tested his luck but managed to clear the boundary on back to back occasions to swing the match in the away teams favour. Though Chester had a good appeal turned down for a run out Hyde got home with one ball to spare. All credit goes to Hyde’s final pair who took the game away from us, but plenty of positives from the match and a great advert for the top of the Cheshire County Premier League. Roll on Finals Day next Sunday and maybe we will get a chance to get revenge.

1XI - Bramhall (H)

With Another early start Chester did not want to hang around against the visitors Bramhall. After being asked to field by visiting Captain Nick Cantello, Captain Dixon set about Marshalling his troops on a flat looking Filkins Lane wicket. After a impressive T20 performance mid-week there was a bounce about the team and though a wicketless in the first 10 overs both Henderson and Robson did an excellent job in keeping the run rate under 3 per over. When Robson was replaced by Off spinner KIlloran the game instantly changed, Firstly he removed his Derbyshire academy team mate with a spinning ball thru the gate then 2 balls later took the wicket of the potentially dangerous Tripathi. Henderson dealt with the number for with a quick short ball which was some reward for yet another brilliant opening spell. Jack Williams came on at the Fleet end and when in tandem the spin twins had the visitors in all sorts of problems. They went from 61/1 to 119 all out. Killoran ending up with 5 and Williams with 4 wickets they were aided by some excellent close fielding from Matt Griffiths at Back pad.

With a low score and a forecast of rain to come the plan was to attack and Rowland and Goodwin took little time to tuck into the new ball attack the inform Rowland being cheered on by pregnant partner Amy dismissed the ball to all parts taking 20 off one over. When he was dismissed for a superb 55 off 51 balls it was left to Warren Goodwin show signs of a return to his best with a fantastic 65 not out supported at the end of the innings by Oli Law 1 Not out. Hall getting home for the loss of 2 wickets in just 18.2 overs.

1XI - Neston (A)

Awaiting Report.

1XI - Oxton (A)

A depleted Chester team missing several regulars including Warren Goodwin and Jordan Clark travelled down the m53 to Oxton, The weather was not the best and after much persuasion we managed to get a game in. The match its self was dominated by the home team and its 3 professionals, Choudry with the bat and Querl and Fernando with the ball. Oxton batted first and got 160 off there 35 overs, the highlight of the bowling was the return to league bowling for Ross Dixon who got a couple of wickets against his old club. The fielding was well below par and it ended up costing us later in the innings.

In response the Boughton Hall line up struggled against Oxton’s two main bowlers on a wicket which seem to suit the length they were bowling. We ended up holding out for the draw 9 down. A match to forget really, Harry and Josh showed real fight holding out for the draw, hopefully we can improve against them last game of the season were I am sure both teams will be looking for a result for differing reasons.

1XI - Marple (H)

Scorecard

Chester Had their most clinical victory of the season when they defeated Marple at Filkins lane by 201 runs. After losing the toss Chester made the most of perfect conditions to bat. They put on 134 for the first wicket before Warren Goodwin was dismissed for 44. Mark Rowland was the star of the show though with a fine 93 falling short of what would have been a deserved hundred. He was assisted by Jordan Clark 75 and a blistering 38 not out by Ollie Law off just 22 balls. Dixon called the team in after 51 overs with the score 280/6.

Though a big score Chester felt that it was chasable for the inform Marple side who had the leagues top run scorer Mark Makin and Albert Hall ex Cheshire Captain.

The second innings did not follow the first as wickets fell regularly, both Clark and Henderson bowled with pace and hostility wickets fell regularly. Jack Williams was brought into the attack early by Dixon and this was the catalyst for the collapse. The impressive product of the BH youth system ran through the Marple batting order taking a superb 6/15 off 8.4 overs.

A superb all round performance, Plenty of cup cricket to look forward to so keep your eye out on the website.

1XI - Northwich (A) - Red Insure T20 Group

The first team travelled to second division promotion hopefuls, Northwich, in the last group game of the Red Insure T20. The scene was set on a lovely evening with Chester making several changes, including Northwich local Shane Patel and second team keeper and club cult hero Tommy Evans.

On winning the toss, Dixon knowing the group would probably go to run rate, elected to bowl.

The pitch was not the easiest to score on and that was noticeable from ball one. Henderson and Killoran took the new ball and it did not take long to make early inroads. Patel and Roberts followed for Chester and they also managed get on the scoreboard, taking a wicket a piece. The game didn't really move forward and after 14 overs the home side were 42/5. Enter Cheshire leg spinner Jack Williams. He made an instant impact taking four wickets off his first four balls. It took him two balls of his next over to finish the home sides innings off, ending up with figures of 1.2-0-5-2.

Knowing that a quick finish would help the net run rate, Rowland and Ross Dixon opened the innings. After a slow start and Rowland losing his wicket early, it was left to Dixon and Oli Law to knock off the runs easily inside 7 overs.

Not ideal preparation for the next round, but hopefully we can build on this win and get down and support the second team tonight in their 1/4 final vs Middlewich.

1XI - Urmston (A)

The first team travelled to Urmston last Saturday hoping to return to winning ways, on arrival to the ground the wicket looked good with a green twinge, after winning the toss Dixon asked the home team to bat believing any life in the track would have been able to be extracted early.

Hendo and Clarky took the new ball and caused the Urmston top order all sorts of problems managing to get three early breakthroughs between them. As the ball got older the life in the pitch seem to get less and flattened out into a good batting surface. Goodwin came on and dismissed the dangerous Turrell, who looks like an excellent overseas batsman, for 45. Panda and Turner came together for the home side and batted patiently to start with, and with the slow over rate, Dixon had to turn to spin for the remainder of the innings. The wicket did offer little for the slow bowlers and with the batsman set they managed to build up to an explosive finish. Panda ended up on 88 not out and his partner, Turner, out on the last ball of the innings for a gutsy 83. The Hall bowlers in the main did well to restrict on a typically good Urmston pitch. Overseas Henderson the pick of the bowling with 2 wickets. Though a good score Hall fancied their chances, knowing the outfield was quick and the pitch good. At Lunch the covers went on as a shower of rain hit the local area. To be fair to the umpires and opposition captain Adam Sydall, we did on several occasions try and get on the field, but each time the rain started up before the players could restart.

Eventually after a lengthy stoppage we had lost 13 overs, meaning that 254 was now a tough call in just 42 overs. Goodwin and Rowlands set off to the target, the latter in particular being very positive hitting boundaries all around the wicket. It was clear that the home side were going to look to defend knowing we would be looking to try and stay with the 6 an over run rate. When Rowlands was dismissed for an exciting 39, Goodwin soon followed, going to the Home captain Sydall, his 2nd wicket. 71-2, Clark was joined by Dixon who departed quickly meaning returning Ex 1st XI captain Jim Gilson came to the wicket. Clark rode his luck early on but then seem to get into his stride with Gilson looking very composed at the other end. The pair added 75 in fast time putting us in position to have a dip in the final overs for the total. Clark went for 64 and Law started well but soon followed for a quick 15. Gilson was still going strong and though other’s tried to support his quest to win the game we lost wickets regularly until he was the ninth wicket to fall with the score on 221. Griffiths and Killoran tried valiantly to save the draw with 13 balls left in the match. Khan for Urmston managed to get a ball to roll trapping Griffiths LBW.

Plenty of positives in a tough position, and you can only feel that 55 overs would have made it a very different challenge. Urmston played some excellent cricket and young Parkinson bowled well. Great to see Jim Gilson back in the runs and look forward to seeing the return to form for several batsman in the coming weeks. It will be nice to get to play at home next week and hopefully some good weather to get the train back on track.

1XI - Elworth (H) - Cheshire Cup Round 2

Sunday cup cricket is a spectacle that all club’s enjoy, a chance for all member and other players from the clubs teams to come down and support. This game certainly had a good buzz around it with Elworth bringing a good group of away fans to add to the home regulars on the Phil Darlington balcony. Elworth turned up with good pedigree in the competition reaching the semi final only two years ago. And with Ex-Pakistan bowler Yasir Ali in attendance it was always going to be a tough game. For the 7th time out of 8 tosses this year Dixon dint get the coin to land his way and the away team choose to bat on a softish Boughton Hall wicket.

Henderson and Kegg took the new ball and it was much of a stalemate in the first 7/8 overs with the batsman very watchful on a wicket which did offer plenty of assistance. Both went past the bat on numerous occasions and chances came and went. Goodwin was introduced at the football ground end and it was not long before he made the breakthrough finding the edge and through to the keeper Rowland. With the score almost to a stand still Kegg struck a sharp leg side stumping from the keeper put Elworth in trouble. With only 9 overs per bowler Dixon turned to his spin attack of Booby Evans and Ross Dixon, the game changed and wickets fell regularly with Evans bowling with great control and gile. He ended up with figures of 3/16 in another fine spell of cup bowling. R.Dixon removed the dangerous Ali after some lusty hitting and managed to get 2 more wickets to end up with three to himself. After a run out , Goodwin finished the innings and Elwoth set 130.

Though a small score it was never going to be easy. Ali took the new ball against Goodwin and Rowland and bowled with real pace, and after 8 overs we lost our first wicket Goodwin knocked over by a ball that nipped back off Ali. Dunbavand joined Rowland and a good partnership was formed dealing with the bowling attack well with shots off the front and back foot. With a change off bowling at both ends both players fell in succession Rolo 29 and Guy 26 leaving Hall on 90-3. Dixon Joined Law at the crease, Law was dismissed around his legs and Griffiths going first ball left Chester stuttering. Dixon looked to be getting into his stride with several lusty blows. After being deceived by a slower ball for 14 , Ross Dixon came and went for 6 leaving Seamus Ogilby and Booby Evans needing 22 to win with only 3 wickets left. Ogilby used all his experience holding a end up and looking for the singles, meanwhile Bobby Evans gave a master class of finding the gaps in the off side finding the boundary on 3 separate occasions to take the game away from the visitors. As the winning runs were scored a roar of delight rang off the balcony, and a hero was hailed as Evans led Ogilby off the field to take his plaudits. With his family and friends in attendance it really was a special moment for the popular club figure and talented Batsman.

Alderley Edge at home in the next round with the date to be confirmed.

1XI - Alderley Edge (A)

Week 7 and yet another away game for the first team, After Losing the toss Chester were asked to bat on a green looking wicket. In a game which seam bowling was going to dominate, the home side started with little luck with Rowlands and Goodwin getting Hall off to a steady start.

When Rowlands went he was shortly followed by Goodwin who got a delivery which leapt off a length, after an unlucky LBW decision for Dunbavand Chester had sunk to 43-3.

Clark joined Dixon at the wicket and he seemed to play with relative freedom until he found the mid-wicket fielder. Dixon continued to battle away in tough conditions he had made his way to 25 before the Alderley Edge overseas O’brien struck again with a ball that caught the edge.

Though there was some resistance the innings struggled to gain any further momentum and we were eventually bowled out for 113 with Ross DIXON stuck on 11 not out.

Though a low score we knew we had the fire power to get early wickets, we did just that and had the home side 23-4 with Hendo and Clarke making the breakthroughs. There was a couple of very strong calls in the coming overs which would of certainly swung the game our way. With that bit of luck Alderley Edge set about eating their way into the small total in particular Adam Worrell, the inform keeper batsman built on his 134 against Oxton the week before. He ended up on 54 not out taking the Edge ship home 6 down. And Alan Day and his team certainly deserved it on the day after playing some good cricket.

On reflection another 40 runs with the bat would have meant the game could have ended very differently, plus the fact that it would be helpful if we ever won a toss (captain’s fault). Again the bowling attack showed real venom and when the batting starts to fire I am sure the results will be far more positive.

Nantwich at home on Saturday and with all the team available it certainly is built for a good game.

1XI National KO - Neston (A)

Neston 217-8 (45 overs) Chester 220-3 (38.2 overs)

On Sunday Chester travelled to Neston in the 2nd round of the National Knockout. With the sun beating down on the beautiful Parkgate ground Neston won the toss and had no hesitation in batting first on an excellent looking wicket in near perfect batting conditions. Chester were without several key players - their overseas Josh Henderson, Lancashire’s Jordan Clark – now unavailable after blasting 44 against Nottinghamshire in the T20 blast on the Friday night, Cheshire duo Dixon and Goodwin and spin twins Williams and Killoran revising for exams. This offered others a great opportunity and again a chance to show the strength in depth of their squad of players.

Despite the return of veteran Alex Kegg who bowled excellently at the start with figures of 2-30 off his 9 overs, Neston still managed to get off to a flyer with 53 runs coming off just the first 5 overs. At the end of the 15 overs power play Neston were 98-2 and in a strong position. However with the fielding restrictions relaxed, stand in skipper Griffiths rotated his trio of young spinners fantastically. With pace off the ball and with the pitch offering some slight turn the 3 bowlers Bobby Evans (3-28), Ross Dixon (1-40) and Guy Dunbavand (2-25) clawed the game back for Chester. Neston who at one point looked as though they were well on their way to a score of 250+ were restricted to a slightly below par 217-8.

Chester’s batting reply started well. In a 35 run opening partnership with Dunbavand (3) and a 60 run partnership with Griffiths (14) wicket keeper Mark Rowlands dominated the bowling attack. He stroked the bowl to all corners of the ground in a typically ‘Rollo’ flamboyant way. He was finally dismissed a for a classy run a ball 82 with the score on 119-3 of 24 overs. This brought Oli Law and Stephen Ogilby together. While Ogilby nudged the ball around nicely giving the strike back to Law, Law produced a powerful display of hitting, his innings was a master class in how to play spin bowling. Ogilby finished with an assured 24 not out and Law ended with 75 off just 51 balls to see Chester over the line with 7 wickets in hand and 7 overs remaining.

Chester skipper Griffiths was delighted with an all-round fantastic team performance. Chester now play Northern in a few weeks’ time in the next round.

Last week we saw Chester skipper Dixon return to form with a century for Cheshire, this Sunday it was Warren Goodwin’s turn. The Chester opener who scored over 1000 league runs last season, but has yet to hit top form this season finally did so with 106 of 98 balls in the minor counties clash against Shropshire. Goodwin said ‘I’m finally happy with my physique, so I’m spending less time doing insanity and more time in the nets’.

1XI - Bowdon (A)

Scorecard

Five weeks in and it certainly feels like we have had plenty of tough games already in the defence of the Premiership crown. The trip to Bowden is never easy minus Jack Williams and Jordan Clark, we knew it was going to be a tough day at the office. After a convincing result against Grappenhall in the previous week. The first team went away again for their third away fixture in the first 5 games. Conditions on the day were perfect for cricket and the ground at Bowden looked fantastic in the sun.

The toss was won by the home side and Dixon’s side were asked to bat on a wicket which looked like it could benefit the bowlers. Warren Goodwin and Mark Rowlands faced up and wasn’t long before the home side made an early break through with Goodwin getting a good ball off Ashling who bowled well in his opening burst. Guy Dunbavand came in, and him and Rowlands steadied the ship both making handy 20 plus scores before being dismissed. Obilby and Law both hung around without much luck and departed cheaply leaving Hall 103-5. It was a partnership by Captain Dixon and Brother Ross which moved the score on scoring 54 and 28 respectively. Both known for scoring quickly, dug in and ground out some valuable runs on a wicket which the par score looked to be lower than both captains would have expected at the toss. The tail struggled to add more runs to the total and we were eventually dismissed for 177 inside 53 overs, Home Captain Gareth Edwards was their star with 6 wickets thanks to some excellent off spin.

At the break manager Derek asked the Captain for a similar second half to Bramhall two weeks earlier, knowing we would have to bowl well to protect the total. The team started well with Big Josh Henderson and Christian Pain taking the new rock. Hendo started with real pace and aggression and it wasn’t long before wickets were starting to fall. Pain bowled with control but hand little luck and was replaced by Goodwin, and the pair did not let up and the Brisbane quick showed his class taking the first 4 wickets before Bowden got to 50. Goodwin deserved more luck and chances were put down, after Dixon brought on Killoran at the pavilion end the game started to get away from Bowden. Young Killer bowled with real control and with aggressive fields the pressure soon started to show. Harry getting two excellent caught and bowled’s the second at full stretch and one handed. After a short break Henderson returned to torment the Bowden lower middle order, they had little answer and after 35 overs all 10 wickets were taken.

Henderson returning a superb 7/21 and Killoran 3/28 taking the 1st’s to a 76 run victory. We welcome Toft to Filkins Lane next weekend, a tough match against a young side. The hope is we continue the good form after more success under Captain Matthew Griffths on Sunday in the National K.O.

1XI Red Insure T20 - Warrington (A)

No report received.

1XI - Grappenhall (H)

Grappenhall 97 all out (33 overs) Chester 98-3 (18 overs).

On a miserable wet blustery day at Filkins Lane Chester captain Lee Dixon won his first toss of the season and asked Grappenhall to bat on a green but surprisingly firm-ish wicket. It was clear from the very start that this wicket was to suit Chester’s tall opening pace attack of Australian Josh Henderson and Lancashire’s Jordan Clark. Working in partnership it was quick hostile bowling at its very best as they tore through the Grappenhall order. With several rain interruptions the Grapp batsmen could not settle and had no answers to the seaming ball and flurries of bouncers. They finally succumbed to 97 all out in 33 overs. Both bowlers bowled un-changed through the innings, Clark finished 5-40 and Henderson 5-52.

With the threat of more heavy rain forecast for late afternoon Chester believed they had a 20 over window to knock of the small total before the weather may take victory away from them altogether. Fantastic stroke play from openers Warren Goodwin and Mark Rowland’s ensured Chester got off to a flyer. When Goodwin was dismissed for 26 the pair had put on 50 inside 10 overs. Rollo was caught shortly after for a flamboyant 43. Despite losing Skipper Dixon cheaply as the rain again began to fall Chester where within 20 runs of their target. Sporting play from the opposition allowed play to continue through the drizzle as Stephen ‘Seamus’ Ogilby and Oli Law knocked of the remaining runs in the 19th over 3 wickets down.

Special mention to groundsman Jim Gilson and his colleagues who worked tirelessly on the ground in the build up to the game to ensure it was fit for play in trying weather conditions.

A well-deserved win and with a number of other league fixtures abandoned due to the weather sees Chester go to 2nd in the league and gain back ground on leaders Hyde who they lost to last week. Chester travel to inform Bowdon next week.

On one final note, the Cheshire first team fielding 3 of our own players - Dixon, Goodwin and youngster Harry Killoran comfortable beat Cumberland at Parkgate Neston on Sunday. It was fantastic to see Chester skipper Dixon return to form with a power hitting century. His 103 coming of just 60 balls with 5 sixes. Well done Dino lad!!!

1XI - Hyde (A)

Awaiting report.

1XI - New Brighton - National KO (H)

New Brighton 187-8 (45 overs) Chester 191-3 (38 overs)

On Sunday Chester took on New Brighton at Filkins Lane in the first round of the National Knock out. With several key players missing due to county call ups and Josh ineligible as an overseas player it gave opportunities to many of the talented second team players to stand up and show their worth – and that they did! Under stand in skipper Matt Griffiths Chester lost the toss and were asked to bowl first on a typically good, if a tad slow Chester pitch.

Early wickets for Lancashire contracted player Jordan Clark and Christain Pain restricted the visitors to 48-3 at the end of the 15 overs power play. Excellent bowling from 15 year old Shane Patel (1-25) and Ben Roberts (1-32) meant the New Brighton innings never gained significant momentum. Economical bowling towards the end of the innings from Ross Dixon and returning spells from Clark and Pain meant the visitors closed on a below par 187-8 off their 45 overs. Pain finished with 4 wickets and New Brighton batsmen While top scored with 91.

Despite losing both openers early, Mark Rowlands for 7 and Guy Dubravand for 13 Chester soon began to dominate the New Brighton bowlers in an 80 run partnership between Clark who made 51 of 39 balls and Ollie Law. When Clark was dismissed at 107-3 New Brighton would have believed they had a chance. However Stephen ‘seamus’ Ogilby in twilight of his career had other ideas. His intense pre season training schedule clearly paying off as he dispatched the bowling to all corners with an air of arrogance. Playing up to the crowd he even finished off the game with an audacious reverse sweep for six off the medium pacer! Chester reached their target comfortably in the 38 over with 7 wickets in hand. Ogilby finished 44 not out. However man of the match went to Oli Law for a well constructed 64 not out which should stand him in good sted for the rest of the season and an imminent return to 1st team cricket on a more permanent basis.

The fact that Chester dominated a game in which they had to make 5 changes from their team that played in the league on Saturday and fielded 8 players under the age of 23 just shows the strength in depth and great position the club finds itself in.

1XI - Bramhall (A)

Homegrown Spin Twins a Turn The Game On Its Head

Saturday was a day were the first team and the league saw first hand the importance of investing time in Juniors. Bramhall felt the force of Jack Williams and Harry Killoran with them taking the game by the scruff of the neck. The newly promoted home team, to be fair, dominated 90% of the match an bowled and fielded superbly on a wicket which offered plenty of support throughout the day. After we were bowled out for 176 off 50 overs, it looked like a tough task for us to defend. With the bat it was 46 from Jack Williams, and 22 from Clark and Goodwin helped us struggle to the total. Williams showed again his quality with the bat as wickets fell around him. The travelling Chester support arrived to add to an excellent crowd which grew throughout the day.

We opened the bowling with Josh and Christian with the wicket drying out under the beautiful summer sunshine the wicket did not seem to offer anywhere near as much assistance as for the seamers in the first half. The Bramhall openers played well waiting for any loose balls and punishing them. The atmosphere from the side was excellent with the home fans believing that they were cruising to a second victory in the Premier League. After 15 overs of seam they reached 82/0, Enter Jack Williams and Harry Killoran, we needed a wicket and close catchers were employed to ensure that no opportunity was missed. It wasn't long until the breakthrough was made, a brilliant leg side stumping by Rowlands set the ball rolling. The next 20 overs saw the remaining nine wickets fall for just 40 more runs, the two spinners bowled with guile, aggression and skill. They bamboozled the Bramhall batsman and with the support of some very sharp fielding the game swayed our way. Williams with six wickets and the very impressive Derbyshire scholar Killoran with four.

Superb turn around and keeps us up with early pace setters. Onto Hyde away this weekend, a real good test this early in the season.

And a quick final mention to Bramhall, ground looked superb, great game and hospitality afterwards hopefully same again in 11weeks time.

1XI - Neston (H)

Its always nice to ease into the season, when the fixture complier penned in a clash against Neston week one I am sure there was a rye smile. After a long hard pre season and two solid victories over Oulton Park and Weaverham it was time to get to the real stuff of retaining last years Premier League title. The sun was shining and an air of excitement around the ground greeted the players and with the ground in fantastic condition everything was in place for a great opening match.

Dixon's first toss as captain was unsuccessful, David Hurst asking Chester to bat first with his team missing a couple of players. Before we took the field Ian Thistlewood showed the team a video from Club Captain John Thistlewood, he wished the team his best wishes and urged the group on with words of inspiration from his cricketing experiences.

Goodwin and Rowlands went out to face the new ball, the first few overs were dealt with little chances being created until Goodwin got deceived by a fuller ball from Smith. Clark join Rowland at the crease and they set to the attack, Clarke hitting the ball cleanly all around the wicket. Rowland was eventually dismissed for 38, showing excellent patience Clark continued well till he was dismissed for 86. L Dixon fell for 10, so it was for Ogilby 46 and R Dixon 66 to push the score forward continuing a very impressive run rate. Jack Williams promoted to seven this season showed he was worth the faith with a run a ball 35, and Griffiths getting 15 as Chester declared the innings five overs early on 320-8. With the wicket clearly batsman friendly Dixon called for the bowlers to work together to help get the ten wickets needed. Jordan Clark and Josh Henderson the new overseas quick bowler took the new ball, and though Neston made a very fast start the positive nature of their batting ment chances would be created. Killoran was brought into the attack after four overs to test Evans technique, and found the edge first ball only for it to go down in the slip cordon. Henderson made the break thru removing both opener's in a superb opening burst, with the wind coming into the face of the Australian Dixon sent him up to the football ground end bringing on new swing bowler Christian Pain. Pain new to the area spent little time creating pressure extracting good movement and with the hostilities from the other end the pressure was always likely to tell. Pain removed Camden and Smith both caught behind by the impressive Rowland who ended up with four victims in the day. The likelihood of Neston getting to the 320 target was becoming less likely and wickets were falling at regular intervals, Henderson adding two more finishing with 4/58 and Killoran getting 2 wickets probably deserving more. Only Chris Hackett really took it to the bowling taking advantage of aggressive fields and hitting the ball cleanly. He was eventually stumped after being deceived by Williams leg spin. The final wicket took a while to take with the final pair proving hard to get, it was left to a swing ball from Clark to end the match and give Chester the 25 points and end 2 successive defeats to the Parkgate club.

Great start to the season, and superb to see so many players contribute. Onto Bramhall next week, thanks to all the people who supported Saturday don't miss the National K.o vs New Brighton next Sunday live from 1pm at Filkins Lane.