Match Report: Derbyshire U15 County Cup Final (June 28, 2024) https://glossop.play-cricket.com/website/results/6622010 Sandiacre Town CC Under 15s clinched a narrow 9-run victory over Glossop CC Under 15s in a thrilling Derbyshire U15 County Cup Final at Glossop Cricket Club. Both teams showcased exceptional talent and spirit in a contest that went down to the wire, offering an exciting conclusion to the competition. Having beaten good teams like New Mills, Dinting, Eckington and Swarkestone along the way Glossop, were hopeful of being competitive against a strong Sandiacre team. Unfortunately for Glossop, Harry Dyson, Lucas Kenyon, and Dan Keeley all missed out on the game with injuries, making the task ahead a little more challenging. Sandiacre batted first after winning the toss and posted a competitive 108-5 from their 20 overs. With their top 4 all representing the Derbyshire Pathway sides, Glossop knew early wickets would be crucial. After a tight opening spell from Boothroyd, it was Joseph Bolton who made the breakthrough bowling the Dangerous Trueman for 7. However, Sandiacre’s innings was built around a fantastic knock from captain James Jordison, who scored a commanding 42 off 36 balls, hitting five boundaries and leading his team from the front. Jordison’s partnership with Jack Murfin (33 off 45 balls) helped to stabilize the innings. As it looked like Sandiacre may get to an unobtainable total Ben Wilson made a key breakthrough by dismissing the dangerous Jordison, bowling him out at a critical moment and halting Sandiacre’s momentum. Glossop’s bowlers worked hard throughout, with Max Mulvey taking the other wicket of S Jordison. Some of the fielding efforts were top-notch as well, with run-outs from Joe Doody and Laurence Riley keeping Sandiacre’s total in check. In reply, Glossop faced an uphill task early on, losing wickets regularly to Sandiacre’s disciplined bowling attack. Archie Gough delivered a standout performance, claiming 3-13 in his 4 overs, while Jack Murfin and Wilf Trueman picked up 2 wickets each. Despite the early struggles, Ben Wilson (14) and Joe Doody (10) attempted to stabilize the innings, but Sandiacre’s bowlers kept the pressure on. At 79-9, Glossop looked to be on the brink of defeat, but the Allen brothers, Nathan and Lewis, staged a thrilling late fightback. Nathan Allen played fearlessly, smashing 18 off 12 balls, including three boundaries, while Lewis Allen provided solid support. Their partnership brought the game to life, narrowing the margin and bringing Glossop within striking distance of an unlikely win. Their entertaining knock electrified the crowd and made for a tense finish. Ultimately, Sandiacre’s bowlers held their nerve, with Wilf Trueman taking the final wicket of Nathan Allen, securing the victory as Glossop were bowled out for 99 in 19.4 overs. Despite the loss, Glossop’s fighting spirit, particularly from the Allen brothers and the unwavering support from their teammates, made the final a truly memorable and heartwarming contest. The match was a fine display of junior cricket, with Sandiacre’s balanced performance earning them the title, but Glossop’s determination and camaraderie left an equally lasting impression. Both teams can be proud of their performances in this close and exciting final.