EXOTIC HOLIDAYS CONTINUE.... - posted 16th April 2008
Who is this bobbing around in the Pacific scaring the fishes !! One thing for certain if there was a duck to be had he would have found it !!
AND FIRST PLACE IN THE SCARIEST PHOTOGRAPH EVER IS.... - posted 10th March 2008
We thought Daniel Harness' poor attempt at growing facial hair was the scariest photo of the year, but then this arrived on the news desk.... Yes that is leading wicket taker Mick Laver in an all in one red swimsuit !! Needless to say the fishes were somewhat intrigued as to what had invaded their space.
APOLOGIES TO THE MERSEA PUBLIC - posted 26th February 2008
A slow moving vehicle held up traffic on the island on Saturday 23rd. Not your run of the mill tractor but the first of Mersea's two new sightscreens was the reason for the hold up as it made it's way slowly up to The Glebe. The second one is currently being built in Reymead Close, and the bad news for the Mersea public is that it will make the same journey before the season starts.
I am trying to get pictures of the curious event, so if anyone can provide them please send them to me via my e-mail address.
DODGY CROISSANT BRINGS ON WINTER VOMITING SICKNESS - posted 25th February 2008
Young Gregor Irvine was taken ill on a coach trip returning from the ski slopes with the mysterious winter vomiting sickness. Struggling with the hairpin bends, he asked his Mum for a bag so that he could vomit, unfortunately, the newer Tesco bags are much thinner these days, and after being sick in the said bag it promptly split depositing its contents on Gregors and his mums lap. !!
There is some contradiction over what brought on the vomiting, Gregor blames a dodgy croissant, whilst his mum thinks it had something to do with him downing 'shots' excessively the night before !! Oh dear it is a slippery slope from here (no pun intended).
FORTHCOMING EVENTS - posted 23rd January 2008
The Annual General Meeting will be held at The Glebe on Sunday 17th February commencing at 7.30 pm. As ever this is an important event in the club calendar, and I urge as many of you to attend as possible as we have a major year ahead of us.
Indoor Net sessions have been arranged at St Benedicts School on Wednesday 19th & 26th March, and Wednesday 16th & 23rd April between 7.30 pm and 9 pm. Cost will be £4 per session, please book your place with Graham as soon as possible.
Outdoor Nets for juniors commence on Tuesday 8th April and every Tuesday thereafter until 22nd July between 5pm and 8pm. There will be a Registration Evening on the 8th April, with Graham Pryke wishing to speak to parents of Under 11s between 5 and 6pm, and over 11s between 6 and 8pm.
YOUR A REAL MAN WHEN YOU CAN GROW SOME FACIAL HAIR - posted 23rd January 2008
Probably the scariest photo of the year. As many of you know club captain Daniel Harness tried to grow some facial hair during the month of November, for the very good cause of research in to Prostrate Cancer.
Unfortunately, facial hair and Daniel do not make a very good combination as this picture below illustrates !!
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ - posted 23rd January 2008
The Annual General Knowledge Quiz will be held on Friday 11th April at The Glebe. Teams of four will again be welcome at a cost of £15 per team. If you wish take part please advise Mel Hughes as soon as possible.
MIRACULOUS RECOVERY - posted 23rd September 2007
Unbelievably Brucie was back on the field of play this afternoon, although he wished he hadn't as he scored just 2 and his two overs went for 31 !! The good old NHS let him down as his operation was cancelled at the last minute.
LUKE CONWAY 1000 RUNS - posted 22nd September 2007
Luke Conway rewrote the Mersea history books this afternoon when scoring his 17th run at Harwich & Dovercourt on his way to 83, as he reached a landmark no Mersea player has ever achieved...1000 runs in a season. Congratulations to Luke who has threatened during the last two seasons to achieve the feat. His season has included one century and eight fifties and an incredible 60 sixes. With one match remaining he will be looking for a ninth fifty to record the most fifties in a season, and set a record that is likely to stand for a long time.
GOOD LUCK TO BRUCIE - posted 21st September 2007
I am sure most members of West Mersea Cricket Club will be thinking about Luke Bruce over the weekend as he has a major operation on both of his hips which will render him immobile for a lengthy period. It looks as though it will be well into next season, if at all, before we see Brucie back on the cricket field, and he will be a very big miss following his impressive 2007 season with both bat and ball. We wish MIP a speedy recovery, and I am sure that once he is settled back home in a few weeks he will welcome visitors.
FAREWELL JONNO - posted 6th September 2007
After two years of avoiding the authorities Mersea's likeable Aussie John O'Regan is set for deportation on Monday 10th September, just in time for an Aussie summer. All the members of West Mersea who have played cricket and drank the amber fluid afterwards wish him well and look forward to his return at some point in the future....hopefully, he will have improved his cricketing skills and become a worthy overseas player !!
LURCH LIFTS THE CROWN - posted 13th August 2007
A small field took part in the annual Single Wicket competition which was excellently organised by Reg Sheldrick. Luke Conway was nearly a shock early casualty when losing to Croc Bruton in the preliminaries. He reached the quarter finals but was beaten for the second time in the day by Chris Storrar. Storrar went on to reach the final, where he was to meet the 2-1 second favourite Luke Bruce. Lurch scored 13, and after three dot balls Luke decided to hit out only to be caught one handed by Darren Rumble who he had earlier been involved in some serious sledging. Last laugh for Ra !!
RUNS AT LAST !! - posted 11th August 2007
A huge sigh of relief for Graham Pryke as his season of woe came to an end with a blazing 77 in the friendly with Hatfield Peverel on Friday. The flat track and buffet bowling encouraged the free scoring, and we all know Graham is probably the best hitter of bad bowling. Reg Sheldrick also got in the act of bowler bashing with 62. Mersea were defeated by 30 runs in a high scoring friendly.
MAIDEN FIFTY FOR GREGOR - posted 5th August 2007
Gregor Irvine scored his maiden fifty for the club on Saturday at Ipswich club DBSL. With Mersea in desperate trouble at 64 for 7, he recorded a century stand with John Woods to lift Mersea to respectability. In doing so he ended up unbeaten on 62, and went into the record books as the second youngest player (15 yrs 162 days) to record a senior fifty. Alex Young holds the record when doing so in 2001 at the age of 14 yrs and 281 days.
OUT OF THE GROUND - posted 30th July 2007
Well we've been waiting four years for it, but when it came it was huge ! A glorious six that went sailing over the car park, to rapturous applause from the crowd. Kevin Hewes is now up and running in the Six Hit trophy and is currently above illustrious bunters such as Graham Pryke, Luke Bruce and Mick Laver.
DESPERATION FOR PRYKIE - posted 23rd July 2007
Graham Pryke is having a torrid time in the Two Counties league, this weekend saw his fifth league outing and his fourth successive duck !! Ouch. In the other game he registered a 'did not bat'. Where will his first Two Counties run come from, next week league leaders Colchester Garrison ?
LANDMARK CATCH FOR MEL - posted 9th July 2007
A landmark catch for Mel Hughes in the second eleven's defeat at Great Bentley on the 8th July. The second catch off the pace bowling of Trevor Vince was his 500th for the club. He is also rapidly closing in on a double having achieved 93 career stumpings.
I CAN DRIVE ON WATER !! - posted 25th June 2007
Adam 'Lewis Hamilton' Rutter had a lucky escape last Saturday when hitting the Strood at 1.30 am. Needless to say the car failed to turn into Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Adam found himself aqua planing towards the railings. Luckily the impact was not too heavy for him and he managed to get out without injury. Unfortunately the same can not be said for the car !!!
TRAP THE RAT - posted 12th June 2007
Initially, Trap the Rat was a very tricky cricket shot designed upset the most devoted groundsman. However, this weekend it found a new meaning (well not a rat, a mouse) as poor Reg Sheldrick opened his kit bag at Eight Ash Green to find a horrible smell as he discovered a food store, droppings and urine from the little rodent. It had even chewed through various articles of cricket attire, and the damage was so bad he had to dump the bag. No happy ending to the story, however, as 'Rentakill' Sheldrick set his traps and bingo the little fellow met a quick dispatch to mouse heaven !!
HATS OFF TO MILLY - posted 12th June 2007
A pleasant surprise from the Two Counties side is how well the scorebook is being completed....very professional....on further investigation it would appear that Luke COnway's young lady Milly is the very astute scorer. All I can say is the majority of the senior squad could learn a thing or two about the excellent book keeping.
40th ANNIVERSARIES - posted 25th May 2007
Congratulations to both Mel Hughes and Mick Laver who reach significant milestones in the next two weekends. May 28th marks the 40th anniversary since Mel's Mersea debut against Earls Colne, since then he has become the club leading run scorer, catcher (with almost 500 catches), and has made the most appearances. Mick Laver made his debut a week later on 3 June 1967 against Birch, he has gone to become the leading wicket taker and is the only bowler with over 1000 wickets for the club. He took a season best of 128 wickets in 1971. And what of their debut all those years ago, Mel was second top scorer in the Mersea innings with 6 as Mersea were bowled out for 22 !! and defeat by 141 runs, whilst Mick also ended up on a losing side a week later against Birch, he was the pick of the bowlers with 4 for 29 as Birch were bowled out for 88, and was second top scorer with 8 as Mersea were dismissed for 60.
HEWES REWRITES THE RECORD BOOKS WITH THE MOST ECONOMICAL BOWLING SPELL - posted 25th May 2007
Kevin Hewes rewrote the Mersea league history books on 20th May at West Bergholt when bowling ten successive maidens to become the first to achieve the feat. The previous most economical bowling spell in the first eleven was achieved by Dabby Hempstead against Wivenhoe in 1982, his ten overs going for 3 runs. Hewes has bowled three other complete spells that went for just four runs, against Chappel, Silver End and Boxted...the latter seeing just one scoring shot as he returned 5 for 4. In the second eleven Dabby Hempstead bowled 10 overs for 1 run against Clacton Ramblers in 1992, whilst David Maiden went for 2 runs off a complete spell in 1989 against Birch 2nd.
UNBELIEVABLE !! HERE's THE GOLDEN BALLS STARTER FOR TEN - posted 19th April 2007
You've had literally one too many to drink, so you drive home and crash, no other car or person in the vacinity...what do you do ?
a) Run from the scene of the accident as quickly as possible to an unknown address
b) As above but call the police later on to say that your car has been stolen
c) Call the police and tell them what you have done, and then fall asleep at the wheel while you wait for them to arrive to arrest you
The British police force being what is takes over an hour to respond, but poor Wally is arrested and duly looses his licence. Another quality Mersea story to begin the season.
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ COMMENTARY 23rd April - posted 19th April 2007
Thirteen teams competed for the annual bragging rights as General Knowledge Quiz champions on the 23rd March. A total of £222.09 was raised on the night, a special thank you to the person who donated 9p.
The quiz was always going to be more open this year as the winners of the last three years, The Dichy, were unable to defend their title.
The quiz itself had a more arty classical feel to it and the organisers were unsure of the reaction from the participants, however, their concerns were unfounded as the teams seemed undaunted by the more highbrow content.
Mick and Gill Laver, along with Simon Lambert, recovered from the non-appearance of Martin Cock to launch a grandstand finish and storm past Rod Gray and Dave Sawkins' teams to clinch the title on the line. In fact the scores were so close at the top that 14 points covered the top five teams.
Gemma outsted Sharon as the quizmaster, and quiz virgin Jamie assisted with the marking and updated the scores on the laptop. Kathy Hempstead did a sterling job behind the bar, and we were thankfully spared the sight of the one armed raffle ticket seller as Reg Sheldrick took pity on poor Graham and sold them himself.
Mel
Full round by round analysis of the night can be found in the attached excel spreadsheet
BREAKING NEWS...LITERALLY - posted 4th April 2007
He has done it again only earlier this year...after ending up in plaster after during the first game in 2006, this year Graham Pryke has achieved the feat a full four weeks before the season is set to start. Attending indoor nets he was unable to avoid a Lurch Storer smash return with the bat whilst bowling. The ball exoceted it's way onto Graham's arm making a clean break. Already concern is beginning to be expressed at what will stop him playing at the start of 2008...then we find out that he and Karen have named the day for their wedding as March 1st followed by a honeymoon in the Maldives....so he will probably end up with a coconut on the head next year !! Anyway congratulations on naming the day from everyone at the cricket club.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - posted 4th April 2007
The Annual General Meeting of the club was held on Sunday 25th February. The main news out of the meeting is that Danny Harness was elected PDQ First Eleven captain, Adam Rutter will continue as vice captain. Nod Goodridge is officially installed as PDQ 2nd XI captain, after doing so well in when taking the reigns in the 2006 campaign. Reg Sheldrick will be his number two. The Two Counties captain will be Luke Conway, with Graham Pryke deputising (if he is not injured). Subscriptions will remain the same for 2007, after the club had another healthy year financially.
CUP DRAW 2007 - posted 25th October 2006
Next season's Cup adventure will begin at The Glebe on Sunday 6th May, when West Mersea entertain Second Division Lexden in the Preliminary Round. If Mersea win it will be a trip to either Fourth Division Great Horkesley or fellow Division One outfit Chappel & Wakes Colne in the First Round on June 3rd. If Mersea fail to beat Lexden then they will go into the Plate Competition, the first round proper occuring on July 1st.
CRICKET DINNER - posted 25th October 2006
Once again the Annual Awards Dinner will be held at the Coast Inn on Saturday 11th November, cost is £18.50 per head. To reserve your place please contact Graham Pryke on 01621 816102, as soon as possible..the menu is set out below;
Starters
Broccoli & Stilton Soup
Calamari Rings with fresh garlic dip
Caramelised Onions and Goats Cheese Tartlet
Duck Spring Rolls with Sweet Chilli Sauce
Main Course
Lamb and Apricot Casserole with Dumplings
Chicken Breast stuffed with boursin cranberry and port jus
Fillet of Red Mullet on a bed of mash with honey and mustard sauce
Steak and Ale Pie
Mixed bean chilli with wholegrain rice and tortilla chips
Desserts
Apple & Blackberry Crumble
Warm Rice Pudding with Tiptree Jam and Clotted Cream
Rasberry and Champagne Torte
Chocolate Brownie with Toffee Ripple Ice Cream
Coffee or Tea
COACHING COURSES - posted 25th October 2006
The Essex County Cricket Board Coaches Association are running the following workshops over the winter
'How to Coach Batting' 19th November 2006 12-3pm
'How to Coach Spin Bowling - 3rd December 2006 12-3pm
'How to Coach Fielding' - 21st January 2007 12-3pm
'How to Coach Wicket Keeping' - 18th February 2007 12-3pm
Special Workshop, preceded by the AGM - 18th March 2007 11.30-3pm
For more information contact Alan Medley: alanjmedley@aol.com
GOLDEN BALLS TROPHY IS HOTTING UP - posted 5th September 2006
It does seem that as we get to the business end of the season the stories are becoming more and more Golden Balls Worthy, as contenders aim to do the outrageous in an attempt to claim the Golden Orb...this weekend Adam Rutter is found unconscious in Crouch Street !!!
DISTURBING TOUR PHOTO !!! - posted 1st September 2006
I make no apologies for this...and I am afraid we have zoomed in closer to bring out the true effects of a drink fuelled tour...this photo was taken on tour of the King of the Badgers Alex Young, and it should be a warning to any prospective future tourists....Touring damages your health !!!
STATING THE OBVIOUS...HOPEFULLY !!! - posted 28th August 2006
Oh dear one of those stories that come back to haunt you...you are sitting in the Coast Inn...wearing your stetson smoking a cigar, cowboy boots, jeans, waistcoat and to top it off your sheriffs badge....so there really is no need to announce to everybody that you are going to a fancy dress party !!! unless that is your everyday wear Danny !!!
TOUR FALLOUT - posted 16th August 2006
The stories are still filtering through...this one is rather amusing and Golden Balls worthy...Steve Rutter had to transport Adam to the Doctors as he returned from tour apparently with a contact lens stuck in his eye !! (or so he thought given that it was all puffy, swollen and bloodshot) Three hours waiting confirmed that there was no contact lens in the eye, and the diagnosis.......EXCESSIVE DRINKING
TWO COUNTIES APPLICATION - posted 12th August 2006
The club have formally applied to the Two Counties League to join for the 2007 season. It is felt at committee level that with the PDQ being played more and more on Sundays, we need to supplement this cricket with Saturday cricket for those people wanting two games a weekend, and also as a way of developing our youngsters. At the moment there is little opportunity for youngsters coming from Colts into Senior cricket. Club members will be kept informed of the progress of our application throughout the autumn when a decision will be likely.
THE SWAN - posted 12th August 2006
With the return of the touring party a number of stories have been regailed. Among the more interesting is Batty's new nickname 'The Swan'. When I heard this I was not sure if this was (a) A dying swan...as in too much drink had killed him or (b) His Tour Swan Song...realising at the age of 34 he is unable to keep up with the young bucks in the three day binge drinking that comes as part of tour. None of these are correct as it appears that Batty got so drunk he was unable to speak and just hissed at people like a Swan !!
TOUR COUNTDOWN UNDERWAY - posted 17th July 2006
Just under two weeks to the tour and the boys are starting to get excited. Amazing what you do when you are totally hammered !! Lurch Storrar decided that he would test his pain threshold, and asked, ney pleaded with Digs Taylor to smack his arse with a cricket bat. Not your run of the mill quick single though, it was a fully fledged slog. Lurch being the man that he is took it very well without any tears. Unfortunately, the imprint of Gunn & Nicholls on his backside may take a few days to fade.
TREVOR GREENLEAF - posted 13th July 2006
Sad to report the passing after a long illness of former Mersea cricketer Trevor Greenleaf. 'Crumb' played for the club on and off between 1963 and 1992, scoring over 700 runs and taking 80 wickets in 126 appearances. He was also Club Secretary between 1970 and 1972. He kept a keen interest in the club's fortunes since retirement from the game, and would have been pleased with his nephews contributions in recent years (Gary & Luke Conway). His sister Sandra is to donate a trophy to the club which will be a fitting memorial to a well liked Mersea man.
RECORDS LOOK SET TO COLLAPSE AS CONNERS GOES ON THE RAMPAGE - posted 3rd July 2006
Luke Conway is in incredible form battering a third century this season, and in doing so becoming the first Mersea player to achieve that feat. He also smashed ten sixes (a record for an innings), which takes him to season tally of 30...3 short of his own record set in 2005.
His unbeaten 111 against Clacton Ramblers came off of just 56 balls, and has taken his seasonal tally to over 500 runs (the quickest to reach the mark) which just beggers the question how many will he end up with this year....the achievement of being the first ever Mersea player to reach 1000 runs in a season looks to be well under threat.
ANOTHER DROPPED CATCH - posted 3rd July 2006
No surprises here but Graham Pryke recently dropped another catch, although a little more costlier than those on the cricket field. This time a bottle of Salsa in Tesco's as witnessed by Chris Storrar amongst others.
IF MERSEA WERE BRAZILIAN - posted 26th June 2006
Find out what your Brazilian football name would be by visiting www.minimalsworld.net/BrazilName/brazilian.shtml
The current Mersea team would line up Adildo, Kevildo, Mito, Daldo, Yoeca, Yoio, Lukildo, Lukauro, Hempsteinho, Rumblaldo with subs such as Dincha, Storosa, and my favourite Goldandro Peres
I SAY CHAPS IT'S NOT PROPER CRICKET OR PERHAPS IT IS SOUR GRAPES - posted 19th June 2006
The Basher Boys have been upsetting Copford with their inproper batting...come on boys we have standards to keep up...can we try to play through the 'V' and along the ground, instead of bashing the ball out of the ground (Eight sixes on Sunday). After all you don't see Kevin Pieterson and Freddie Flintoff do that do you. Sadly I think a touch of the sour grapes was on show here, as the bowlers were unable to contend with our middle order animals !!
MISSING STATS - posted 18th June 2006
Some missing stats have become apparent to the club statistician. If you can fill in the blanks please e-mail Kevin Hewes at kevinjeannette.hewes@ntlworld.com
16th April : Catchers name : Belhus (Friendly) Opener off of the bowling of Alex Young
30th April : Catchers name : Chappel & Wakes Colne (friendly) off of the bowling of James Tilsley
1st May : Run Out : Danbury (Div 3) last man
14th May : Catchers names : Earls Colne & Bures (Div 3) ....2 off of the bowling of Mick Laver, 1 off of the bowling of Reg Sheldrick
If you are unsure of the game please check out the scorecards link on the West Mersea 2006 Statistics. Full scorecards are available here. Thank You
KWIK CRICKET - posted 16th June 2006
Tremendous weather greeted our second Kwik Cricket Festival on the 9th June. Over 30 teams came to The Glebe, and a successful night was enjoyed by all. The club made a healthy £463 on the night, and also gained publicity in the Gazette on 14th June with a full page article.(see below)
NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE - posted 16th June 2006
Ruts was nearly killed in a freak accident on a golf course at Lexden a couple of weeks back. With a bit of rain about the surface was not condusive to hand break turns in a golf buggy. Ruts attempted such a manouevre ending up falling out of the buggy, and ending up with the buggy about to run him down. Thankfully, Luke Conway managed to overt the carnage by steering the buggy away from the prostrate Ruts.
BADGER WATCH - posted 16th June 2006
Prykie tells me that as part of The Swan (Little Totham) guest ale week, he has managed to consume a pint of Badger Ale. Reg Sheldrick spotted two more instances...Bill Oddie during SpringWatch mentioned the word badger on numerous occasions whilst observing a Badger Set, whilst on CBeebies Becky and Barnaby Bear watched some 'beautiful badgers' and 'wonderful baby badgers'.
YOUNGY SCORES ANOTHER HALF CENTURY - posted 28th May 2006
Congratulations to Ian Young who on 28th May celebrated another fifty, this time fiftieth birthday. Hopefully, having reached the landmark he can go on and score many more fifties for Mersea, having already achieved the feat of scoring the most fifties for the club.
BRUCIE CENTURY - posted 28th May 2006
Mersea defeated the Dutch touring side on Thursday by eight runs. Batting first the hero of the innings was the unlikely Luke Bruce who scored a run a ball century and ended up with an unbeaten 112. He shared an unbeaten fourth wicket stand of 119 with Ian Young who himself was unbeaten on 57. Croc Bruton had earlier scored a career best 27.
SECONDS REMAIN UNBEATEN - posted 25th May 2006
Amazing match on Saturday between seconds and unbeaten Cavaliers ends in astonishing fashion. Cavaliers were restricted to 145 for 8, with Nod Goodridge claiming a hat trick on his way to career best 4 for 22. Mersea appeared to be cruising at 95 for 2, but then slumped to 124 for 8 (effectively 9 with John Tidman leaving to go to the Football Dinner) up steps Luke Conway with an amazing over 6.4.6.2.4 to see Mersea to a two wicket victory.
BADGER WATCH - posted 21st May 2006
Badger Watch update....Big Brother website, under the United We Stand item....Shebaz is still badgering Sezar.......this is probably going to run and run. Might even have to have it's own devoted page !!!
NEW SECOND ELEVEN CAPTAIN - posted 18th May 2006
Simon Lambert has relinquished the second eleven captaincy due to an unexpected extra workload in recent weeks. At the committee meeting on 16th May it was agreed to appoint Neil Goodridge as captain in the interim period. Hopefully, we will see Simon back on the field of play later in the summer, but in the mean time we wish Neil the best of luck in his new role.
BADGER WATCH - posted 18th May 2006
The boys wanted the new game on the Website...Badger Watch....any mention of the word Badger on national television, the press, books, etc. to be published on the website. Early Badgers were in the tv programme 'The Apprentice'...finalist Ruth Badger, also a couple of mentions in Eastenders, Pauline Fowler telling someone to 'stop badgering about'....and most recently in Freddie Flintoff's autobiography.
If you come across a mention of the word Badger please e-mail me with where, when and how and we shall publish it on Badger Watch !!
ANIMALS !!! - posted 15th May 2006
A frightening second wicket stand between big hitters Luke Conway and Noddy Goodridge was the highlight of Mersea seconds collosal 290 for 8. Conway hit a typically horrible 120, whilst Goodridge not to be outdone smashed three fours in an over !!! Still waiting for further details of the match.
IT WAS HORRIBLE !!! - posted 18th April 2006
No it's not the boys in Friday Woods again, this happened with two balls left of the opening fixture of the season. Graham Pryke attempted to catch a flat batted six on the boundary, and ended up in hospital with a badly broken finger. I still haven't seen the pictures and if anyone as got them on mobile phone I am sure we can use them. Reports have it that the bone was through the skin, where was Dr Srini when we needed him. Anyway Prykie was in hospital for two days and now looks like having to endure a lengthy layoff. I am not gloating but may be people will listen to me when I say it is unwise to play in April.
DEBUT FIFTY FOR JONNO - posted 18th April 2006
A great start for Mersea's new Aussie import John O'Regan who scored 65 in the opening match against Belhus as Mersea posted 197. John's innings included four maximum's to see well ahead of Conway and Harney in the early season six hit table. Ian Young also posted a fifty, whilst son Alex opened the Mallard Trophy with the first duck of the season.
FIXTURE CHANGE - posted 11th April 2006
The Division One league match with West Bergholt scheduled for the 10th June, has been rearranged for the 3rd June due to a clash with the England Paraguay World Cup match. The friendly against West Bergholt scheduled for the 3rd will now take place on the 10th June at the Manor Ground, obviously players permitting !!!
TOP EXCUSE OF THE WEEK - posted 11th April 2006
Cricket Force last weekend was a success with a small band of volunteers making sure everything was shipshape for the new season. Reg Sheldrick would have been there but in his own words 'having cleared out garage, loaded car with rubbish and visited dump but having left doors and boot open and radio on all morning I'd flattened the battery of my good-for-nothing-but-scrapping car which was facing down the drive and jump leads wouldnt reach it from my reliable motor.
All I can say is early contender for the Golden Balls !!!!
THEY'RE AT IT AGAIN !!! - posted 5th April 2006
Just discovered this little gem, following on from the antics of last September in Friday Woods, Dogger Conway, Wally Sanderson, Lurch Storrar and Digs Taylor missed the General Knowledge Quiz having gone north to Manchester, apparently there are rumours about them frequenting Canal Street. Obviously getting in some training for the Doughnut Punchers tour in July.
CONGRATULATIONS TO MR & MRS BOWERS - posted 5th April 2006
Congratulations to Graham Bowers and his new wife Michelle who were married on 25th March. Our best wishes go to the happy couple for a long and happy marriage.
WORLD CUP COMPETITION - posted 7th March 2006
The World Cup is less than 100 days away, and to get you in the mood, the club will once again be running a Prediction Competition. Check the link for World Cup Predictions 2006, you will find the rules and an entry form. Please feel free to let your family, friends and work colleagues know, as the more that enter the more money the club will make.
CLUB MARK STATUS - posted 13th February 2006
The Club have attained Clubmark status following some hard work legislatively by Mel Hughes and Graham Pryke. This is an excellent achievement in that we are one of a handful of clubs in the North East Essex area to have attained it, and the 509th in England. Clubmark should put the club in a better position to obtain support from the main cricketing bodies. See below our unique clubmark motif that denotes us number 509 to achieve the mark in England.
NEW CAPTAINS - posted 13th February 2006
At the AGM on February 12th, Darren Rumble was elected first eleven captain, with Adam Rutter nominated vice captain. The new second eleven captain is Simon Lambert. Graham Pryke remains in his post as second eleven vice captain. Danny Harness, Steve Sheldrick and Peter Phillips were all elected as members of the committee.
PRYKIE'S FITNESS REGIME - posted 13th February 2006
Prykie is setting a good example with his rigid pre-season fitness regime. Spotted on his bike after dark by Reg Sheldrick, he shouted he 'couldn't stop as it would ruin his average !!!' some thing never change.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - posted 2nd February 2006
The Annual General Meeting of West Mersea Cricket Club is scheduled to take place on Sunday 12th February 2006, 7.30 pm at The Glebe. Issues under discussion will include new captains and vice captains for both 1st and 2nd elevens, also we will be adopting a new constitution to bring us in line with Club Mark. Please make every effort to attend this meeting and make your point of view.
INDOOR NETS - posted 2nd February 2006
Indoor Nets will begin on Wednesday 1st March at 8pm at Phillip Morrant School. They will be held on the 8th, 15th and 22nd. Outdoor Nets are scheduled to start on 27th March, although this will be confirmed nearer the time. To book a place for indoor nets contact Graham Pryke on 01621 816102.
CHILD PROTECTION WORKSHOP - posted 2nd February 2005
As part of the ongoing policy of Child Protection in local cricket, the cricket club will be hosting a Child Protection Workshop on Monday 13th February 2006 commencing at 6.30pm. David Letch, a community cricket coach from the County will be available to instruct members on child protection policy. We would like as many members as possible to attend, as this is a very high priority issue on the local cricket agenda. Anyone involved in Colts cricket should definitely attend, but it does affect every club member as we have juniors playing at senior level. Please contact Graham to confirm your place.
CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM DOWN UNDER - posted 15th December 2005
Christmas Greetings from Harney, the Golding brothers & Tom's young lady, on a beach at Opito Bay, New Zealand about 4 hours drive east of Auckland. On to Sydney for the New Year Celebrations on a luxury yacht...how the other half live !! Harney looks to have lost weight !!
TOUR OPPONENTS FINALISED - posted 5th December 2005
Graham has finalised the tour with opponents, hotel and travel all booked. All he needs now is some tourists & remember there are only 20 places available this time !!! If you wish to tour, please contact him as soon as possible, or even better pay a £20 deposit to book your place.
Fixtures are ; Friday 28th July v. Borders (Tunbridge Wells) ; Saturday 29th July v. Rustington; Sunday 30th July v. Westfield Bohemians
PRESENTATION DINNER - posted 23rd November 2005
The Annual Presentation Dinner took place at the Coast Inn on Saturday 19th November, with over forty people in attendance. After an excellent three course meal the presentation of the annual awards took place. Graham Pryke delivered a resume of the 2005 season, and then presented the most important people in the club with their vouchers as a token of our appreciation, the tea ladies. Luke Conway then cleared up with the trophies winning the Second Eleven Player of Year, Six Hit Trophy, Mallard Trophy and the Roy Bishop Memorial Trophy for Single Wicket Champion. Kevin Hewes took the First Eleven Player of the Year for the 6th time in his career. Mel Hughes, 20 years after last winning the Batting Averages took that honour for a third time in his career, and Alex Young was top bowler for the fourth successive year. Ian Young's century at West Bergholt was deemed Best Performance of the Season. Jack Woodley was nominated Young Player of the Year, and Luke Sawkins took the Best Performance by a Colt. Century awards were presented to Graham Pryke, Ian Young and Digs Taylor.
The prestigous Golden Balls award was presented by Kevin Hewes, and after mentioning many of the club members misdemeanours throughout the campaign, the award was presented to Reg Sheldrick.
LEAGUE AGM - posted 27th October 2005
Major changes to the league structure were adopted at the league AGM on 26th October. The Premier league was formed with eight teams competing, Clacton, Coggeshall, Colchester, Elmstead, Galleywood, Kelvedon, Mistley and Wivenhoe. The remaining teams were split into five divisions of ten teams...the firsts remain in Division One with Abberton, Clacton Ramblers, Colchester & E.E. 2nd, Copford, Great Bromley, Halstead, St Osyth, West Bergholt and Witham. The second's are promoted to Division Three, and will play against Abberton 2nd, Cavaliers, Chappel & Wakes Colne 2nd, Danbury, Earls Colne & Bures, Eight Ash Green 2nd, High Easter, Kirby and Lexden.
The reduction in league size means that there will only be 18 league matches, and obviously means our fixture list will need to be supplemented by friendlies or other organised competitive matches.
Little Bardfield Village re-entered the league three years after resigning from it, Colchester Garrison and Dedham resigned from the league...the latter citing that there was not enough Saturday cricket.
The cup competition was also re-introduced with Mersea being drawn at home to Division Five champions Little Baddow on June 4th. All first round losers in the cup will progress into the Plate competition which will run along the same lines as the Cup. We did put a number of proposals to the AGM all of which were defeated.
INDOOR CRICKET - posted 17th October 2005
For the first time since the Royal London Indoor Cricket days, Mersea played a competitive game of indoor cricket at Ipswich last night. Playing against Stowmarket, who had two ladies playing in their side, albeit one of them plays for Young England...Mersea won their debut match by 24 runs. The eight a side game, see 16 overs per innings with each player bowling two overs. The batsmen bat in pairs with each pair batting for four overs each. Each time a batsman is out the side lose five runs. The game apparently is exhausting (or so Graham Pryke says) but very enjoyable. The team will continue to play throughout the winter months, so if you want a game contact Graham and he will forward you to the relevant person in charge.
IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE WOODS TODAY..... - posted 6th October 2005
Shocking revelations in the last match of the season, which has worrying ramifications for the 2006 Doughnut Puncher tour. The four young men in question openly admitted frequenting the notorious Friday Woods after dark, not once but TWICE. Apparently at Friday Woods after dark a load of gentleman walk their dogs, which is a little bit alarming as none of them have their dogs with them !!! Anyway hopefully the Mersea men in question have been suitably scared off, and that will be an end to it. For legal reasons we are unable to reveal the identities of our cricketers, but needless to say one is the tallest in the club, two is a Badger, three is Stan Collymore and four is Big Brother's Craig....need I say anymore.
WHERES WALLY - posted 13th September 2005
Another lookalike as the season draws to its end...answers by e-mail...those who played at Lexden can not enter....a new player to the club in 2005, likes the student life and as made an impact by catching his vomit in Rutter's garden.
BRUCIE POLEAXED - posted 23rd August 2005
Well I suppose it has been coming with Brucie's level of sledging that someone was going to end up knocking him out, and Sunday's match with Abberton saw the incident. However, not a conventional poleaxing in that Brucie was rendered unconscious by his own wicketkeeper. In an act of utter comedy Prykie threw the ball to Ruts who had the simplest of duties to run out the stranded batsman who had given up !!. For some reason Ruts smashed the stumps without the ball in his hand and then in an attempt to cover up his embarrassment made to throw the the ball to the bowlers end. However, the trajectory of the ball took an ominous loop and Brucie was felled as Ruts threw the ball into the side of his head.
DEPRAIVED SEXUAL ACT - posted 23rd August 2005
Not often seen on the field of play but something very dubious as Peter Phillips mounted one of the Abberton fielders whilst umpiring on Sunday.
HARNIES CHALLENGE - posted 23rd August 2005
Harney has seen that his record haul of sixes in a season has gone to Conrad via the website. He sent me an e-mail congratulating Connors, but also stating that had he played 300 games in a season as opposed to the 14 he did when he notched 24 then he too would expect to get the sort of haul Connors his aiming for !! Should be an interesting 2006 season with the two beasts trying to outdo one another.
PRYKIE TAKES HARNIES YELLOW HEART OF COWARDICE - posted 23rd August 2005
Yes something has been missing this year with Harney away, but thankfully Graham reminded me of what it was on Sunday. Padded up waiting to bat Prykie watched anxiously as Abberton quick Callum Appleyard returned to the attack, he counted the deliveries down left to face 24 to 18, a couple of no balls agitated him. Disaster struck seven balls left Peter Phillips leaves one which cuts back and slams into the stumps. Prykie successfully sees off the final delivery of the over. However, the next over saw his act of cowardice. Having faced three balls from the slow leg spinner he edged one to third man and set off happily to get off the mark, however, on reaching the other end he realises there are two balls to go before he would have to face Appleyard for a full six balls. So he attempts the second run, I mean we don't see him run a quick single let alone a double. Sadly there was only winner in this race with Graham run out by ten feet. So as you can see he is now the number one contender for Harnies Yellow Heart of Cowardice
THE ENJOYMENT OF CRICKET - posted 20th August 2005
Cricket really is a game to be enjoyed especially in this summer of 'The Ashes', however, spare a thought for poor Reg Sheldrick who sent me an email this week, and to be quite frank must be feeling like a Bangladeshi test player. Mersea's own 'tiger' has endured his last two games against Danbury and Mistley. These matches have seen the opponents bat first and smash 690 for 3 from 90 overs !! Opposition batsmen have posted scores of 97, 152 no and 180 no, Reg's 20 overs have returned him 0 for 100ish. When Reg's turn came to batting he score 4 against Mistley, and then against Danbury after being the third choice opener registered an eleven ball duck. Has anyone had a more wretched pair of games ??? Reg did ask in his e-mail does he win a prize, I think the answer would be yes....The Golden Balls !!!
MAT NEILL PEN PIC - posted 20th August 2005
Mat has been asking for his pen picture to go onto the website, which it should do at the end of the season with all players who have completed the season. However, thought I would give you a sneak preview of the picture, caught with Mat wearing an England shirt.
TOUR TAKING SHAPE..GET YOUR DEPOSIT DOWN AS THERE IS ONLY LIMITED SPACE - posted 1st August 2005
Already we are just a year away from the next cricket tour Friday 28th July to Monday 31st July 2006...dubbed the homosexual tour as our gay cavaliers head to Brighton....Graham has now booked the hotel, the transport and two fixtures, so things are coming together. Unfortunately the hotel can only accomodate 20 people so it is very much a case of first come first served...the cost of the tour is going to be in the region of £170, and to book your place you will need to stump up a small deposit of around £20 as soon as you can. See Graham Pryke for further details.
NEW HAIRCUT FOR ALEX GIVES HIM UNCANNY RESEMBLANCE - posted 1st August 2005
Thanks to Darren Rumble for this little gem, having never heard of the children's TV character Pob, I went looking on the Internet and yes I will have to concur with Darren that Alex's new haircut does give him an uncanny lookalike. Judge for yourselves, I was giggling for ages.
TABLE FOR TWO - posted 1st August 2005
The Coast Inn is becoming a frequent haunt for the first team on a Saturday evening, but this weekend there was the strange sight of Luke Conway and Alex Young sharing an outside table for two and scoffing some vintage wine....very refined....postscript to the story was that Luke Conway woke up with a wine bottle in his hand !!!
TAXI FOR VINCE - posted 1st August 2005
Ugly scenes on Saturday following the friendly with Nacton, Trevor draws his car up to the entrance of The Glebe so that he can load his kit into the boot. We do have photographic evidence of this act of laziness and hopefully we will be able to produce it on the website shortly.
CONWAY & WOODS GO WILD IN THE AISLES - posted 19th July 2005
An administrative slip up saw the first team without a tea lady on Sunday, John Woods aided by Luke Conway took on the mantle of makeshift tea ladies, racing down to the Co-Op and conjuring up a fine spread....only problem was it cost the club £45 instead of £35. The mixed pickles didn't go down to well, but otherwise well done.
IDEAL PREPARATION !!! - posted 19th July 2005
Last ball defeat at Bergholt saw the boys obviously disconsolate and in the need of alcohol in preparation for the Copford game on Sunday. After consuming beer at the Coast Inn the squad moved to the Rutter's establishment and continued to drink into the early hours. A number of casualties saw Tom Sanderson catching his own vomit, Luke Conway snoring on the lawn and Alex Young commenting on the moistness of something, but no one is too sure what, such was his drunken stupor. Apparently Darren Rumble, Adam Rutter and Luke Bruce were lastmen standing.
A NUMBER OF SIGHTINGS OF RUTS - posted 14th June 2005
Adam Rutter apart from his obvious likeness to Frank Lampard as been appearing in a number of other places recently. Firstly, Eastenders aka Martin Fowler and shockingly in the Big Brother house as camp hairdresser Craig....if you don't believe me look below
CONRAD GOES BALLISTIC - posted 14th June 2005
Luke Conway had an incredible weekend with the bat and ended up on the losing side twice. He smashed 149 runs in two innings, spending just 105 balls at the crease. His two innings included 17 fours and six sixes which now sees him well clear in the six hit race for 2005. Despite his prolific scoring, he sadly declined the invitation to move up to the first team and see if he could maintain his form. However, if Abberton go the same way this weekend he will have no option !!!
HAIR RAISING TIMES AS DIGS RETURNS TO THE FOLD - posted 14th June 2005
Digs Taylor is back on the island for the summer, and has discovered a new talent.....mens hairdresser...the soppy git. First victim of the year (and I can only say judging by the haircut he was a victim) was surprise surprise...... David Fahie. No longer a Keith Miller lookalike he now resembles an overweight refugee from Belsen.
CONGRATULATIONS TO BATTY & LIZ - posted 14th June 2005
Liz has delivered vice captain Batty Mills a fourth daughter....God help him when they reach teenagerhood....anyway congratulations from everyone at the cricket club on the arrival of Lotty Amelia....apologies to the ladies as I have no further details at the moment.
WOODS GIVES HIMSELF UP - posted 25th May 2005
Finally after four weeks John 'The Bear' Woods owned up to the Osama gag in the first week of the season. Obviously the threat of the closing net, and sanctions brought him to his senses, and he admitted his misdemeanours albeit to the second eleven.
30p BUS ROUTE - posted 25th May 2005
The fitness of our younger members holds no limits..this little gem was revealed on Sunday...Adam Rutter happily pays a 30p bus fare to get from Middleborough up to the top of North Hill each day....rather than walk !!
LOOKALIKES - posted 25th May 2005
I have been requested to publish a Mersea lookalikes on the website, so here it is .....David Fahie aka Keith Miller, Alex young aka Michael Ballack, Adam Rutter aka Frank Lampard, Digs Taylor aka Junichi Inamoto, Stuart Mills aka Milo. Obviously if anyone else spots some Mersea lookalikes that look nothing like then please let me know.
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NET CLOSES - posted 10th May 2005
The perpetrator of the Osama gag has made a serious error, with a second joke ballot following the Copford game. Same handwriting, it is just a matter of time before the joker is brought to justice !!
WHO APPEALED ? - posted 3rd May 2005
John Woods' dismissal against West Bergholt must surely go down as one of the most unusual. The ball went past Woods' bat and to the wicketkeeper. The wicketkeeper then through the ball to slip, and was confronted by the umpire (Faheed) with finger aloft !! A bemused John Woods returned to the pavilion apparently caught behind, the only person seemingly sure of the mode of dismissal being the umpire. Very strange !!
CHANGES TO PLAYER OF THE YEAR - posted 28th April 2005
To overcome the problems of too few votes the Player of the Year voting has been changed for 2005. Each player will receive one vote in every league match they play, so effectively you will be voting for Mersea's Man of the Match. The player with most cummulative votes at the end of the season will be adjudged Player of the Year. The opening league match saw five men receive votes, with Alex Young prevailing. However, what we don't want to see is the vote that was put forward by one individual. We will find out who it was, suspects include Luke Bruce and Steve Rutter and they wil be suitably chastised.
2005 SEASON BEGINS - posted 22nd April 2005
The opening salvo of the 2005 campaign took place on Sunday 17th April with the visit of Tollesbury to The Glebe. Mersea batted first and made 139 for 5, with Nod Goodridge returning to the fold with an unbeaten 49. Tollesbury raced to victory largely due to the exploits of Zane Kennedy who smashed 76, he was eventually dismissed by front line bowler Mel Hughes who claimed his first wicket since 1980 !!
MASTERMINDS OF MERSEA SUCCESS - posted 29th March 2005
The esteemed Bread Board has returned to The Glebe after a gap of several years. Mel, Sharon, Gill, Batty and Liz overcame late withdrawals to take on allcomers whom had their full quota of 8 team members. Mel was particularly confident as he regarded Colchester's last gasp win against Stockport during the afternoon as a lucky omen. This view was reinforced when RRG of 'The Moliette' (champions for the last 4 years) informed WMCC that the 'engine roonm' of their team was missing. A tactical decision not to play the joker until the last round saw the team in 3rd place, behind the Dabchicks and a 'Friday Night Squash' team which included our own Geoff Rutter, David Fahie and yes, shockingly, Graham Pryke !!! This fact inspired the team to a maximum 32 points in the round and victory by 11 points.
INDOOR NETS - posted 20th February 2005
Pre-season is well under way with Indoor Nets taking place at St. Benedicts School, every Tuesday between 8.15 pm and 9.45 pm. Just a reminder there will no nets on 22nd February as it is half term. Nets will recommence on March 1st and continue until the 22nd. Outdoor nets will start on Monday 4th April starting at 5.30 pm.
BABY IN A HURRY - posted 20th February 2005
Early contender for the Golden Balls award 2005, but nevertheless congratulations to Beccy and Reg Sheldrick on the rapid arrival of their second daughter Grace in the early hours of February 18th. Don't know whose fault is was on the timing, but Beccy decided she was ready to go to hospital at 4.30 am. Reg calmy started the journey from Tiptree, but by the end of his journey he was driving through red lights as the situation became more urgent. Thankfully, he pulled up outside of the hospital at 4.50 am just as Grace made her entry into the world on the backseat of his Scenic. Postscript to the story was that Reg was supposed to be part exchanging his car the next morning, however, a steam clean was probably going to have to be performed. We wish Beccy, Reg and Millie all the best on their new arrival. Is this an omen for Reg getting off the mark quicker in 2005.
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ - posted 20th February 2005
The ever popular General Knowledge Quiz hosted by the Hughes family will be held on Friday 1st April, commencing at 7.30 pm at The Glebe. Once again it is on an invitation basis with preference going to teams who have participated in the past. However, there will no doubt be a few spaces to fill for individuals so if you would like to take part then let Mel know and he will put you on the reserve list.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - posted 20th February 2005
The Annual General Meeting was held on Sunday 13th February at The Glebe with a disappointing turn out of 13 club members. The secretary congratulated the club for it's performance on the field in 2004, with both first and second teams comfortably placed in their respective divisions. The treasurer reported a profit of £1200, this despite having to pay for umpires and extra balls, as a result match fees would remain unchanged for 2005. However, Colts will pay £1 for each evening match they participate in. The fixture secretary reported that each eleven would play 22 league fixtures this year, and there would be a record 11 double headers as Two Counties and Mid Essex league teams were forcing the PDQ league into Sunday Fixtures. Graham Pryke was appointed the club's first Child Welfare Officer, in accordance with a directive from the ECB. Kevin Hewes and Mick Laver will continue to captain the first and second eleven, with Stuart Mills and Graham Pryke as vice captains. David Fahie was nominated as the match secretary and will contact players regarding their participation in weekend cricket.
ANNUAL CRICKET DINNER - posted 21st November 2004
The Annual Cricket Dinner held on the 20th November was an overwhelming success with 47 players and wives in attendance. After Graham had delivered his resume of the 2004 season it was left to club captain Kevin Hewes to present the awards. Alex Young was the most successful recipient, winning the Bowling Averages, First Eleven Player of the Year, Colts Performance of the Season and Young Player of the Year. Mat Golding also filled his mantelpiece, claiming the Batting Averages, Performance of the Season and the Six Hit Trophy. Both players were also presented with century awards having posted three figures during the season. The Second Eleven Player of the Year went to Graham Pryke, who was also the recipient of the Club Person for his services to the club in 2004. Luke Conway was the runaway winner of the Mallard Trophy, and also collected the Single Wicket Runners Up prize. Trevor Vince was awarded the Roy Bishop Memorial Trophy for the Single Wicket Champion. The Colts Player of the Years were as follows, Alex Pacey took the Under 15 award, Josh Passfield Under 13 and Daniel Lambert Under 12. The Under 15's who were in attendance were also presented with their medals for winning their division. Finally the coveted Golden Balls went to Stuart Mills, for a number of misdemeanours in 2004.
MERSEA FINISH ON A HIGH - posted 30th September 2004
The season ended on a high with both the seconds and firsts recording victories in the final matches to see both teams finish sixth in their respective divisions. The seconds condemed Wormingford to Division Five when recording a three wicket victory after being set 112 to win in a 35 over game. The firsts trounced local rivals Abberton by eight wickets. Zane Kennedy smashed an unbeaten 66, whilst Ian Young 50 not out and Adam Rutter 49 also put in useful contributions
COLCHESTER PUT OUT THE STARS FOR MERSEA !! - posted 13th September 2004
Colchester & E.E desperation to claim their first North Essex League title since 1992, saw them field a very strong team for their encounter with Mersea on Sunday. Departing Aussie John Ivulich and former Essex player Andrew McGarry were amongst the teams ranks. The pair opened the batting and put on 153 for the first wicket in 23 overs. Ivulich went through to a predictable century. Luke Bruce was the pick of the islander bowlers with 2 for 42 from 10. In reply Mersea were never ever going to be in the chase, but scored a moral victory by keeping the stars out in the field for the full 45 overs and claiming the full quota of batting points !! Colchester go to Halstead on the last day knowing a win will lift the title, both sides will undoubtedly field above normal strength sides in their bid to win the match.
ADAM RUTTER REACHES 500 - posted 6th September 2004
Mersea comfortably defeated Great Bromley on Sunday by seven wickets, to ensure top flight cricket for 2005. Adam Rutter led the run chase with a fine 57, which saw him reach the 500 run land mark for the season. Mat Golding 42* and Danny Harness 29 also put in worthwhile contributions.
THREE MORE PLAYERS REACH 500 - posted 31st August 2004
The Bank Holiday weekend saw three more players pass 500 runs for the season. Graham Pryke hit an exquisite square cut to reach the land mark first at West Bergholt. In the home game Mat Golding got the single to take him to 500 and was then promptly dispatched being adjudged leg before. Alex Young made up the trio reaching the landmark by smashing a full toss for six into the Colchester Road as he went on to post 53.
VINCE LIFTS SINGLE WICKET TITLE - posted 31st August 2004
Trevor Vince turned the Single Wicket into the Carling Cup when lifting the title on Saturday. Trevor won all three group games to reach the quarter finals. His quarter final with Luke Passfield rewrote the Sngle Wicket history books as Trevor successfully chased 29 to win through. Russ Wilkin was his semi final victim which left Luke Conway in the final. Luke savd his first duck of the day for the final and Trevor got the single to claim his place in history. Luke Conway promptly revealed he was to retire !!!
HEWES HAT TRICK BUT MERSEA DENIED - posted 17th August 2004
Skipper Hewes completed the first hat trick of the season in Sunday's match against Copford to reduce the host's to 133 for 7. However, Mersea failed to capitalise, and Copford thanks to their Indian import Darshan managed to get to 211. Mersea were always behind the required rate on an increasingly awkward pitch. Ian Young top scored with 34.
IAN YOUNG REACHES DOUBLE LAND MARK - posted 17th August 2004
Ian Young completed a double land mark in the friendly with the Indian Under 17 side Avinash Salvi Foundation on Wednesday. His 54 saw him become the first Mersea batsman to reach 500 runs this year, and also the fifth to reach the magical milestone of 10000 career runs.
DOUBLE FRIENDLY THIS WEEK - posted 9th August 2004
Mersea play host to two friendlies this week. On Wednesday we have a touring Indian Under 17 side playing a Mersea XI. Players should be at The Glebe for pre-match lunch at 12pm. Play commences at 1pm. on Saturday North Springfield Wanderers are once again visiting The Glebe.
DOUBLE SUCCESS - posted 9th August 2004
On the hottest day of the year Mersea played some scorching cricket to record two victories in the PDQ League. The Firsts travelled to Eight Ash Green and after enduring a steamy day in the field set about chasing a target of 209. Skipper Hewes and Ian Young blasted a 126 run partnership for the second wicket to put Mersea in command. A slight blip then saw three wicket fall for 6 runs, before Alex Young (48*) and Stuart Mills (27*) smashed 75 runs in seven overs to secure victory.
The seconds batted first at The Glebe and smashed 266 for 6, James Tilsley back from injury scored a career best 65 and was given support from Graham Pryke 51. Stuart Hempstead, Mel Hughes and Mike Srinivasan all notched up 30s to see Mersea to an intimidating target. The bowlers managed to restrict the Boxted reply to 188 for 8 and a comfortable victory.
FIRST TO 500 - posted 9th August 2004
The race to 500 took a dramatic turn this weekend with the in form Honda failing with 2. Ian Young remains favourite to reach the landmark first having scored 471 runs. He also requires just another 31 to get to 10000. However, son Alex is also racing into contention with 455 this term. Mat Golding has accumulated 439, and with two friendlies this week before league action on Sunday don't discount Graham Pryke on 396.
CONGRATULATIONS TO BATTY AND LIZ - posted 9th August 2004
Stuart Mills and Liz Golding are getting married this Thursday 12th August. Congratulations from all the members of West Mersea Cricket Club.
FRED CROUCH - posted 4th August 2004
The club was rocked to its foundations when the news filtered back from the tour of the sudden and devastating death of Fred Crouch, during the second match of the tour at the Valley of the Rocks. Fred was a professional tourist who enjoyed his cricket to the maximum. He was instrumental with Martin Judkins and Ray Newell, in getting Mersea to their first Continental tour in 2000, and also for the visits of Dutch touring sides over the last few years. He loved the game and the social side of being with team mates and opponents alike. If there was any consolation to his untimely demise then it would have been that he was playing his favourite sport, on tour, in the sunshine, in a beautiful setting....Our thoughts and sympathy are with his family at this time.
TOURISTS RETURN - posted 4th August 2004
The touring party returned safely from their sojourn to the West Country. A subdued event following the tragic circumstances of Saturday, and really cricket paled into insignificance with what happened.
It was generally agreed that Fred would have wanted the tour to continue, and although the remainder of the event was muted some good cricket was played. Of the three matches, two ended in defeats with the third in the balance when it was abandoned. The two highlights were Mat Golding's second century of the season with an unbeaten 103 at Lynton & Lynmouth, and Luke Bruce scoring a career best 66 against Long Sutton. Once again thanks go to Graham Pryke for arranging the accomodation and transport (courtesy of Tony Glew once again), the spectacular locations and glorious weather in which the cricket was played.
In any other year the tour would have been an undoubted success, but sadly fate intervened this year.
HOLD YOUR BREATH ITS TOUR TIME - posted 27th July 2004
This weekend sees a very large touring party travelling down to Somerset for three matches. The club will hold it's breath with a number of volatile (after a few beers) characters travelling. Hopefully, the weather will be set fair for another successful campaign full of stories and quality 'golden ball' moments.
CRICKET PADS FOR SALE - posted 27th July 2004
Arthur Wormington of West Bergholt was flogging Brian Lara 375 Pads following the match on Sunday. They are a very good quality pad and are very reasonably priced at £15. If you wish to purchase some you can contact Arthur on 07899 952647
THE INDIANS ARE COMING - posted 27th July 2004
The match arranged on the 3rd July against the Indian Under 17 side has been rescheduled for Wednesday 11th August at The Glebe. If you are available that day and wish to play let graham know as soon as possible.
SENSATIONAL CENTURY FROM GOLDING - posted 12th July 2004
Mat Golding scored a cracking century against Abberton on Sunday to ease Mersea's relegation fears. Coming in at 74 for 2 in the 27th over, he scored 105 from 50 balls as Mersea plundered 190 from the last fifteen overs. His innings included 14 fours, and five sixes. Ian Young (56) and Alex Young (29 from 18 balls) also joined in on the fun. Abberton were then undone by the bowling of Darren Rumble who took 5 for 23 to see them slump to 65 for 7. Eventually they were to get to 180 all out.
KWIK CRICKET IS GREAT SUCCESS - posted 10th July 2004
Mersea hosted their first Kwik Cricket competition last night 9th July, despite the worry of the inclement weather in the week preceeding it turned out to be a fantastic success. Organised by Graham Pryke, and assisted by numerous helpers on the day the club can be justifiably proud of its achievement. Special thanks go to site manager Andy Wargent for working out the ground logistics. David Green, Trevor Vince and the council staff for making the ground look in superb condition. Catering organisers Stuart Mills, Geoff Rutter, Danny Harness, Julie Passfield, Roberta Sawkins & Kathy Bond. Bar staff Steve Rutter & Ian Young. Numerous match managers who also doubled up as car park attendants. Rubbish & Glass collectors, and general clearing up Dave Sawkins & Phil Passfield. Raffle collectors Bev Bruce & daughter..first prize was no less than a digital camera !! PA provided by Tony Golding. The evening was rounded off with the presentations which saw Essex captain Ronnie Irani distribute the prizes. Unfortunately this saw numerous Mersea ladies and Graham swooning at his feet !! Once again congratulations to everybody who made the event so successful. The icing on the cake was that the club raised a tremendous £350.
SILVER WARE FOR THE UNDER 15s - posted 10th July 2004
Colts cricket is coming to its climax with the evening league matches being completed. The Under 15's under the astute managership of Otto Reheggal tasted success on Monday night by winning the Under 15 1st division title. In a win or bust match at Harwich the successfully chased down 120. Congratulations to all the boys in the squad.
ALEX YOUNG THUMPS MAIDEN CENTURY AS MERSEA SCORE 300 - posted 28th June 2004
Mersea thrashed 310 for 6 in the friendly with Tollesbury on Sunday but failed to win due to adverse weather. Alex Young and Luke Conway led the way with a partnership of 140, Luke Conway smashed a career best 81 from only 55 balls . Alex carried his bat throughout the innings for a maiden century, eventually ending up undefeated on 126. Darren Rumble with a cameo unbeaten 29 at the death put the icing on the cake. In return Tollesbury were 59 for 8 when rain intervened. The Duckworth/Lewis method giving mersea a comprehensive victory.
HEWES REACHES LANDMARK - posted 21st June 2004
Mersea First eleven skipper Kevin Hewes reached a personal landmark in the Eight Ash Green defeat on Sunday. A rare boundary saw him to 10000 runs, to join Mel Hughes, Trevor Vince and Mick Laver in Mersea players to have achieved the feat.
YOUNGS GO ON A BLITZ BUT FAIL - posted 21st June 2004
Ian and Alex Young put on a brilliant show a clean hitting with a partnership of 76 in 12 overs that saw Mersea to the brink of a great victory over Eight Ash Green. Sadly when both were dismissed with the score on 147, there was no one to take up the fight, and Mersea failed by 15 runs. Ian posted 54, whilst Alex had clubbed 37.
OUCH THATS GOING TO HURT - posted 21st June 2004
James Tilsley has been batting well for the seconds, but his innings came to a painful end on Saturday. Having smashed a four he collapsed in a heap, having dislocated his knee. Luckily Dr. Mike was on the scene and promptly POPPED it back in, comforting thought that !!
MELS MARAUDERS WIN - posted 7th June 2004
The second XI under the captaincy of Mel Hughes scored an excellent victory at Great Braxted on Saturday. Batting first they recovered from 15 for 2, to reach 211 for 8. Alex Young top scored with 68, but was given good support by Mike Snow (28), James Tilsley (24) and Mike Srinivasan (20), all from the middle order. Braxted in reply were going well until a triple wicket maiden by Luke Conway set off a major collapse and they slumped to 105 all out. The firsts on Sunday performed alot better than the previous week, but still went down by 53 runs to Halstead. Other teams near the bottom of the table faired little better leaving Mersea still mid division.
MIXED WEEKEND - posted 1st June 2004
A mixed bank holiday weekend for the club. Saturday saw a weakened first team defeat basement side St. Osyth. Toosy were restricted to 175 for 5, Darren Rumble 1 fo 20 was the pick of the bowlers. In reply Mersea raced to 64 without loss in twelve overs, quick wickets then fell before Mat Golding with an undefeated 62 saw Mersea home. The seconds entertained Tendring on Sunday, batting first Mersea posted 157 for 8, Graham Pryke top scoring with 47. A disastrous afternoon in the field saw a number of dropped catches. Tendring made good of their luck and raced to an eight wicket victory, Reg Sheldrick claiming the only wickets to fall. Monday saw the first's entertain Colchester & E.E. and the game reaffirmed how far the first team still have got to go. Colchester batted first and made 226 for 8, Mersea battled back well as at one stage it looked as though it would be close to 300. However, in reply Mersea were undone by some excellent seam bowling by Woodward in particular (8 for 19) and shot out for just 58. The margin of defeat a collosal 168 runs, the biggest margin of defeat the first team as ever suffered !!
MORE UGLY SCENES AT THE WHITE HART - posted 1st June 2004
More shocking scenes at the White Hart over the weekend. The boys go out on Saturday night to celebrate victory over Toosy. Adam Rutter a little worse for wear, chucks up by candlelight in the toilet and then denies it to the rest of the party. Unfortunately, the giveaway is his t-shirt strewn with carrots, and the peas on his hat !! Later on Luke Bruce climbs on to the roof of the chippery in a vain effort to retrieve his hat, which Rah kindly through up there for him !!
MERSEA CRICKETER DISCOVERED UNCONSCIOUS UNDER BLOW UP DOLL - posted 29th May 2004
Yes it's true...Luke Conway celebrated his 21st birthday on 28th May, and after a particularly heavy drinking sesson he was rendered unconscious at 8pm..needless to say his mates then took advantage of the situation and gave him a rubber woman for the night !!! Congratulations to Luke, hope the headache isn't took extreme. Waiting for details of the other cricketer to reach 21 this weekend, Digs Taylor. Obviously with what has gone on in the past, avalanches, muggings, etc, we will be scanning the daily's to get the details.
FIRST ARE UP AND RUNNING - posted 25th May 2004
Victory at the third attempt for the First's came as a massive relief. Batting first on a springy wicket Mersea made 189 for 9. Ian Young top scored with 37, but there were useful contributions throughout the order. Alex Young (20 from 16 balls) and Luke Conway (17 from 10 balls) added the impetus at the end of the innings. Bromley never showed any fluency in their reply, Alex Young (1 for 19) Kevin Hewes (2 for 21) and Dabby Hempstead (3 for 24) all returning economic ten over returns. Bromley eventually reached 148 for 8, leaving Mersea winners by 41 runs.
SO YOU WANT TO USE THE CABBAGE PATCH !! - posted 23rd May 2004
See news 15th September about the new name for the Glebe. Well nine months later our friends from Great Totham request use of our wicket on Cup Final day for a Mid Essex League match due to their ground being double booked for a fete, and if they don't play they will be deducted 20 points. How short a memory have they got ? Needless to say 'on your bike' was the reply. You didn't like what you played on eight months ago.
MEL REACHES LANDMARK - posted 10th May 2004
Mersea's most prolific batsman Mel Hughes reached another milestone landmark on Sunday. After a disastrous 2003 season dogged by injury, Mel has started the 2004 season in good touch. A solid 49 saw him pass 13000 runs for the club.
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ - posted 14th April 2004
Once again the General Knowledge Quiz hosted by the Hughes family was a raging success. Fifteen teams took part in the event, with Mick Deane's team prevailing by 5 points over the champions of the previous three years Sprason's Boys. Messrs Laver, Pryke and Mills took their teams to the next three places. At the bottom Alex Pacey's team collected the wooden spoon, but put in a creditable performance and can be forgiven for their lack of knowledge regarding Del Shanon and Little Richard. The club raised a fantastic £254 on the night. Thanks to all those who made the event so successful, particularly the Hughes family, Mick Laver, Graham Pryke and Kathy Hempstead. Also to those club members who donated excellent raffle prizes, top prize was a microwave oven no less !! Well done to everyone.
INTERNATIONAL FIXTURE - posted 14th April 2004
West Mersea will play an international fixture in 2004, with an Indian Under 17 side visiting The Glebe on Saturday 3rd July, as part of a two week tour. There will be an after match curry put on specially for our visitors.
SEASON OPENER - posted 14th April 2004
Prospects of the opening match of the season against Boxted on 18th April look slightly better with the arrival of spring like weather. The wicket got another cut and roll over the Easter weekend and looks in good shape. The outfield is the major problem, and any wet weather in the next few days could lead to a cancellation.
KWIK CRICKET MEETING - posted 23rd March 2004
The first meeting of the Kwik Cricket Working Party will take place on Wednesday 7th April at 7pm at The Glebe. Anyone who wishes to put input into the event whether ideas or practical help is welcome to attend
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ - posted 23rd March 2004
Mel Hughes and family will be hosting the popular General Knowledge Quiz on Friday 26th March at The Glebe commencing at 7.30 pm. A large turnout is expected so if you haven't already reserved your place you could be out of luck.
AGM - posted 23rd March 2004
Low key AGM with 20 members in attendance. Adam Rutter and Luke Bruce replace Danny Harness and Mark Mahon on the committee. All other officials re-instated. Match Fees also unchanged. Exciting award for Colts is the Day trip to Lords with Mike Gatting. Award put forward by Mike Srinivasan (TV Personality - autographs only by appointment), as a one off incentive to Colts for 2004. All Colts are eligible for award, and does not only reflect on performances on the field, but also attitude and clubmanship.
JOHNNY HEMPSTEAD - posted 20th February 2004
Sad news to report is the passing of former wicket keeper and club captain Johnny Hempstead at the age of 77. Johnny was the club wicketkeeper for a number of years during the 50's and 60's, and until this last season was the leading stumper with 77 stumpings to his name. He was the first eleven captain for three seasons between 1968 and 1970, and was a committee member for a number of years. After his retirement in 1970 he continued to maintain a keen interest on how the club was performing.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - posted 16th February 2004
The Annual General Meeting of West Mersea Cricket Club will be held on Sunday 29th February at The Glebe commencing at 7.30pm. All members are welcome to attend. Your chance to change the captain or committee. Also there will be news of an exciting initiative for Colts cricket.
KWIK CRICKET AT THE GLEBE - posted 16th February 2004
West Mersea has secured a Kwik Cricket tournament for the 2004 season. Kwik cricket is open to anybody of primary school age. Our tournament is scheduled for Friday 9th July and we hope to have plenty of support from club members.
2004 INDOOR NET SESSIONS - posted 1st January 2004
Graham has arranged Indoor Nets at two venues during the early months of 2004. Undoubtedly, these were a success last year and a number of players benefitted from early practice when the season began. The cost of hiring these venues is substantial and at the moment the uptake has been poor. We need players to commit to sessions so that we can budget the outlay. The sessions take place at St. Benedicts School every Tuesday night except two, between 8.15 pm and 9.45 pm, commencing on Tuesday 13th January until 23rd March. Two Tuesdays, the 17th February and 2nd March will be replaced with Thursday 19th February and Thursday 4th March at Phillip Morant between 6pm and 8pm. Please contact Graham as soon as possible to book your sessions, if there are not enough bookings we will have no option but to cancel, which would not be a very inspiring start to the year.
2004 FIXTURES RELEASED !! - posted 17th November 2003
The 2004 fixtures have been released and are on the website. The First Eleven begin their First Division campaign on April 18th at home to Boxted. A week later on the 25th the seconds travel to Tendring for their first match. Danbury are the only new fixture on the list.
CRICKET DINNER NEWS - posted 17th November 2003
A successful end of year dinner was held at the Peldon Rose on November 15th, with some 35 club members in attendance. After an enjoyable three course meal it was down to master of ceremonies Graham Pryke to recap the season & divulge the winners of the vaious trophies which were presented by chairman Mick Laver. Kevin Hewes claimed the Batting Award & 1st XI Player of the Year, Alex 'Alfie Moon' Young took the Bowling Averages, Colts Performance of the Year, and Under 16 Player of the Year. Mike Srinivasan was 2nd XI Player of the Year & Six Hit Trophy winner, Adam Rutter claimed the Young Player of the Year award, Ian Young won Best Performance of the Season, Digs Taylor the Roy Bishop Memorial Trophy for Single Wicket champion, David Fahie was Club Person. There were age group awards for Luke Passfield Under 14 and Josh Passfield under 12. Luke Sawkins took the Golden Balls Trophy, although David Fahie did run him close. The tea ladies were also presented with vouchers as a way of a thank you for their excellent work during the season.
PACEY FIVE WICKET HAUL IN PRESIDENTS MATCH - posted 29th September 2003
The season ended in dramatic fashion on Sunday when a Mersea XI took on Martin Cock's Presidents XI. The Presidents team batted first and posted 200 for 9, Alex Pacey became the second youngest player at 14yrs 295 days to claim five wickets with a spell of 5 for 23. Luke Bruce hit a career best 51 at the top of the Mersea reply, Adam Rutter 46 from 32 balls and David Maiden 38 NOT OUT again !! saw Mersea to victory in the gloom.
BRUCIE LEADS US BACK TO THE TOP FLIGHT WITH CAREER BEST BOWLING - posted 22nd September 2003
The first eleven ended a successful campaign by winning their final fixture of the season to ensure promotion to the first division. Mersea posted 214 for 7, with Adam Rutter scoring 53, Hewes 32 and a cameo 23 from chairman Mick Laver. Tollesbury were going nicely in reply when Luke Bruce took centre stage with a career best 6 for 48 to bowl out Tollesbury for 186. The celebrations then started in earnest and will carry on to the Presidents Match as the season finale this Sunday
CALYPSO CRICKET GOES WRONG - posted 22nd September 2003
What's this all about....safe from the threat of relegation Graham Pryke goes for Calypso cricket in the Second Eleven's final game of the season. Drawing the batting order out of the hat sees Adam Rutter the biggest loser suffering the indignity of number nine, and then been adjudged leg before for 0. Don't let Luke Conway get your lottery ticket..first to draw he claims number eleven. Mersea score 169, Abberton coast to victory in 24 overs. Calypso cricket is put to bed until the tour !!
THEY JUST CAN'T GET HIM OUT - posted 22nd September 2003
One of the unusual statistics of the 2003 season is that of David Maiden's batting exploits. Again on Saturday against Abberton he was left stranded unbeaten on 32, his best of the season. However, it was the seventh time he had batted this year, he has scored 93 runs and he has been not out seven times. Probably the most times a batsman has batted in a season and failed to be dismissed.
DEJA VU - posted 15th September 2003
A touch of deja vu at the end of the 2003 season. Victory last weekend has propelled the first eleven into the promotion frame. Twenty years ago we were in the same position going into the last match of the season, coincidentally away to Tollesbury. A win at Tollesbury this weekend will see a return to the first division, and a very outside chance of the title. Copford need just seventeen points from their three fixtures to lift the title.
FIRST CENTURY OF THE SEASON - posted 15th September 2003
Stuart Mills led the way in the destruction of Great Totham with the club's first century of the season, a career best 118 which included 20 fours and one six. It was his third career century and made him the fourth Mersea batsman this season to pass the 500 runs landmark.
NEW NAME FOR THE GLEBE - posted 15th September 2003
Don't let appearances deceive you...Great Totham did !!!..they didn't like the look of the Glebe wicket and after winning the toss elected to field. Much sledging then took place..'land the ball between the carrots & the cabbages', unfortunately not too many actually landed and the lollipops offered were duly dispatched to the boundary to see Mersea up to their biggest total of the season. Totham also managed to score 200 on 'The Cabbage Patch' or 'Allotment'. It was just a shame their pristine wicket did not play so well the previous day when they were bowled out for 125. I think we will happily keep our 'Cabbage Patch' or as we prefer to call it The Fortress.
CAREER BEST for ADAM - posted 8th September 2003
Adam Rutter, enjoyed a successful weekend for the second's, scoring 130 runs in the two matches. This included a career best 89 against Marks Tey. He also became the third player this year to reach the 500 run landmark.
REG CELEBRATES A NOVEL FIFTY - posted 8th September 2003
Reg Sheldrick currently tops the Mallard Trophy with seven points, having achieved big Bondy points during August. A 22 ball duck against Wormingford on the 2nd August, was followed by a 27 ball failure against league leaders Clacton on the 17th. This weekend the first ball of his occupation against High Easter saw his 50th ball without score. However, his run was broken when with his fifth delivery he managed to get off the mark
IAN YOUNG JOINS ELITE GROUP - posted 1st September 2003
Ian Young became the 10th Mersea player to achieve the double of a 50 and five wickets in the same match in the recent Division Four game against Galleywood on the 31st August. First with the bat he scored 51, which was also his fiftieth half century for the club and also saw him past 500 runs for 2003. Then with the ball the 'underused first eleven bowler' claimed a career best 5 for 39, as Mersea won a high scoring match by 2 runs.
DIGS TAYLOR and 'The Beast' lift the 20th Single Wicket - posted 25th August 2003
Digs Taylor won the 20th Single Wicket competition when beating pre-tournament favourite Alex Young in the final of the Bank Holiday event. Twenty players took part, with holder Danny Harness, Adam Rutter & Luke Conway amongst the early casualties. James Tilsley & Robert Ultrim were the surprise Semi-Finalists, James losing out (20-21) in a record scoring match against Digs. The day was an undoubted success and capped by a Chilli evening.
HEWES TAKES FIRST ELEVEN RECORD - posted 25th August 2003
Kevin Hewes took his first eleven season aggregate to 664 to claim a new first eleven record. Danny Harness was the previous record holder in 1996 he achieved an aggregate of 644. Hewes has now scored six half centuries this season, with his last three innings seeing him reach fifty.
HARNEY IS BACK - posted 19th August 2003
Danny Harness made a welcome return to Mersea cricket in the first eleven league match at Copford, after almost twelve months out of the game. His innings was shortlived with just 8 runs but it was good to see him back on the field.
HEWES REACHES 500 - posted 12th August 2003
Kevin Hewes with an unbeaten 71 against Little Clacton on the 10th August became the first Mersea player this season to reach the 500 run landmark.
THE BEAST GOES BALLISTIC AGAIN ! - posted 12th August 2003
For the second time this season Digs Taylor slaughtered the Eight Ash Green 2nd eleven bowlers. This time he blasted his way to 88 off of only 56 balls. His 50 was reached in 28 balls, and his innings included an incredible 72 in boundaries. This time his efforts didn't inspire a Mersea victory as the Green got home with 6 wickets in hand.
ALEX INSPIRES MERSEA - posted 28th July 2003
An inspired weekend with the ball by Alex Young, saw him take nine wickets and see Mersea 1st XI to a double success against Shalford & Kirby. Against Shalford on Saturday he took 4 for 22, on Sunday against Kirby he went one better with 5 for 21.
SRINIVASAN CRACKS FASTEST FIFTY BUT SECONDS LOSE AGAIN - posted 19th July 2003
Mike Srinivasan hit the fastest fifty of the season in the second's match with Halstead Fenns. His fifty came off just 27 balls, eight balls later he was dismissed having reached 71. His efforts saw Mersea past the 200 mark, but were unfortunately not enough to see a Mersea win.
SAWKY IN UNDERPANTS SHOCKER - posted 19th July 2003
Luke Sawkins has probably been scarred for life following the game with Halstead Fenns on the 19th July. Luke having forgotton his batting underwear was less than thankful to the skipper Trevor Vince who offered to let the young lad borrow HIS !!
HEWES EPIC VIDUAL - posted 7th July 2003
Kevin Hewes went into the record books in the first eleven match with Birch last weekend, opening the batting he carried his bat for 45 overs and amassed a grand total of 40 not out !!. To be fair the wicket was seaming and Mersea did lose wickets regularly as they compiled 142 for 9. Hewes' durability won the day though as Birch were bowled out for 120.
YOUNGS BEAT CHAPPEL & WAKES COLNE - posted 23rd June 2003
Ian & Alex Young were instrumental the first's victory over Chappel & WC over the weekend, however, not in the expected way. Firstly Alex Young put the icing on the cake as far as the Mersea innings was concerned with a career best unbeaten 69 from just 56 balls to see Mersea up to 214 for 5. Father Ian Young then turned on the style with the ball ripping the top order apart with 4 for 20 as Chappel slumped to 105 all out.
RECORD SIXTH WICKET STAND - posted 16th June 2003
Mel Hughes & Digs Taylor compiled a club record sixth wicket stand of 179 against Eight Ash Green 2nd on Saturday. Mersea had slumped dramatically to 43 for 5, when the pair came together. Digs hit a career best 99 which ended when he was run out, whilst Mel Hughes hit an unbeaten 62.
WELCOME RETURN TO DAVID FAHIE - posted 2nd June 2003
David Fahie a prominent figure in the success of the club during the early eighties, returned to West Mersea C.C. this weekend and looks to be here for the summer. His return coincided with an upturn in the fortunes of the club, as both teams secure victories over their Great Bentley counterparts. The seconds win their first match of the season.
YOUNG'S CAREER BEST BOWLING WINS THE DAY - posted 26th May 2003
Ian Young was the hero of the first's match this weekend against Great Totham. However, not with the bat as we are accustomed to, but with a career best bowling spell which destroyed the Totham reply. Mersea posted 181, with John Woods leading the way with an unbeaten 60. Great Totham in their reply were cruising before Mills with blinding inspiration turned to Ian Young who ripped the middle order out with a spell of 4 for 11. The speed merchants then returned to the attak and Totham were bowled out for 162.
MICK LAVER'S EFFORT ALL TO NO AVAIL - posted 12th May 2003
Mick Laver enjoyed Sunday's match with Halstead Fenns. Firstly, with the bat he scored a magnifent 85 in the Mersea total of 201. The second eleven skipper then came into the action with the ball to nearly claim victory for the islanders with a spell of 5 for 28. It was the second time in his career that he had achieved a fifty and five wickets in the same match. However, his efforts proved to be wasted as the Fenns sneaked home by one wicket.
FIRST'S ARE BLITZED BY SOUTH AFRICAN - posted 12th May 2003
On an excellent pitch at Shalford the first eleven amassed a staggering 274 for 5, Hewes 82 not out, Adam Rutter 63 leading the way although all the batsmen made useful contributions. It seemed that rain was the only danger to a Mersea win, however, we had not reckoned on the batting capabilities of South African Jakob Labascagne who smashed a brilliant unbeaten 163 to lead Shalford to a seven wicket victory in 38 overs !!
WINNING START TO LEAGUE PROGRAMME - posted 28th April 2003
A great start to the season for the first team with a comfortable win over Chappel & Wakes Colne at The Glebe. Stuart Mills led the way with the bat scoring 71.