The Sams smash Thorley

Thorley arrived at Cricketfield Lane needing a victory and their batsmen gave them what appeared to be a reasonable start with 183-8, which could have been less had Stortford capitalised on two run-out chances. Seven of the home side were teenagers, and one of them, Austin Sewell, bowled with pace and movement, taking 3-36, while another, Zak Ahmed showed good control and turn with 2-42. Cluderay - (not a teenager) clearly suffered from the strain of bowling almost the whole of his spell to one batsman, - Bob Mills, - because upon dismissing him in his last over, he immediately pulled a fetlock. The fabulous Draper boys got a deserved victim each.
At tea some were predicting a Stortford win, although not in the 27 overs it actually took. But Graeme Sumner showed his experience by getting out first ball, thus bringing Sam McCrone to the crease. Sam then proceeded to flay the Thorley attack to all parts, showing impeccable timing in a sumptuous display of stroke- making. His undefeated and chanceless 126 included 13 fours and 4 sixes. It was his first century and his father was there to see it. Almost unnoticed was his partner, the other Sam, - Kightly, - who calmly strolled to 51 not out as Stortford won by 9 wickets.