By Glossop Cricket Club
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September 9, 2024
On Saturday, September 7th, 2024, Glossop CC 1st XI hosted Prestwich CC in an important GMCL Premier League 2 clash for Glossop’s survival. Despite early promise, Glossop ultimately missed the opportunity to secure a much-needed win, as they were defeated by 48 runs after failing to chase a revised target of 188. The day started positively for Glossop, who won the toss and elected to field. With a disciplined bowling attack, they aimed to restrict Prestwich to a manageable total. Early breakthroughs came when James Eyre and William Hargreaves struck key blows, dismissing Stuart Els (32) and Sam Kershaw (9). However, the Prestwich top order, led by Tom Gibson, played patiently, accumulating runs to steady the innings. Gibson’s well-crafted 64 off 124 balls formed the backbone of Prestwich’s total, while captain and wicketkeeper James Wharmby added a valuable 45 runs off 69 balls, keeping the scoreboard ticking. Glossop’s bowlers toiled hard, with William Hargreaves emerging as the standout performer, claiming 3-56 in his 15 overs. James Eyre and professional player Irosh Samarasooriya also contributed, each picking up two wickets. Despite some strong individual performances with the ball, Glossop missed opportunities in the field, including some crucial dropped catches, which allowed Prestwich to add valuable runs toward the end of the innings. Lower-order resistance from Lewis Smith (10) and useful contributions from extras (20) helped Prestwich reach a respectable total of 187-9 from their allotted 50 overs. Glossop's task was then to chase a revised target of 188, which was achievable but required a strong start. Unfortunately, their innings began on a shaky note as they lost David Wilde for just 2 runs in the second over. Lee Dale and Chris Gill formed the backbone of the innings, with Dale playing a determined and patient knock, scoring 40 off 122 balls. Gill, slightly more aggressive in his approach, struck 34 runs off 58 balls, including four boundaries. The pair seemed to steady the ship, taking the score to 55. However, just as they began to build momentum, Gill was caught off the bowling of Prestwich’s sub-professional, Pramod Maduwantha. From there, Glossop's middle order collapsed under pressure. Irosh Samarasooriya looked to inject some energy into the chase with a brisk 22 off 33 balls, but his run-out due to a sharp piece of fielding from Ryan Maddock proved to be a turning point. Wickets continued to tumble, as Andrew Cadd, Daniel Senior, and Matt Sonczak all fell cheaply. With the top and middle order dismantled, the tail had too much to do. Sam Elliott fought valiantly with an unbeaten 16, but tight bowling from Nathan Bailey (3-46) and Andy Bradley (2-26) ensured Glossop were bowled out for 140 in 45.3 overs, well short of the target. The defeat will sting for Glossop, especially given the opportunities they missed throughout the game. In the field, dropped chances and lapses in concentration allowed Prestwich to accumulate more runs than they might have, and their batting lacked the partnerships necessary to mount a successful chase. With run-outs and lower-order wickets falling cheaply, the middle and lower order crumbled under pressure. This missed opportunity cost Glossop valuable points in their attempt to maintain their premier status. While Lee Dale’s and Chris Gill’s performances with the bat were commendable, Glossop will be reflecting on their inability to convert promising moments into match-winning efforts. For Prestwich, the all-round performances of Tom Gibson and the bowling attack, particularly Bailey and Bradley, proved decisive in securing the victory and taking home the valuable five points.