Back
Sun 17 Jul 2022
Hemel Hempstead Town U12A (HJL Semi final)
Under 12
10:00
U12'S LOSE HJL SEMI FINAL AGAINST HEMEL H
Ben Livermore19 Jul 2022 - 17:27
Share via
Hemel prove far too strong, but "so many positives" after a brilliant campaign
The Under 12 Eagles suffered a second HJL semi final defeat in 2 years, as Hemel Hempstead powered to victory on 'Finals Day' at Letchworth CC on Sunday. In what were swelteringly hot conditions, "gazebos and sunscreen" were very much the 'order of the day' and a large crowd gathered for what was a fantastic occasion. Following our stunning victory away at Harpenden in the Quarter finals, we arrived for our semi final in a rather 'buoyant' mood.... but in all honesty Hemel proved far too strong in the end. (Hemel later beat Broxbourne in the final to become County Champions).
Losing the toss for the umpteenth time this Summer, we were put in to bat and Tom Foden (15) and Ciaran Wilson (9) set a decent platform of 30-0 from 7 overs. However, the Hemel bowling attack soon gained a tighter 'grip' on the game and we only just managed to reach the 100 mark (finishing on 100-9 after 20 overs) - largely thanks to Sam McGinn (15) , Charlie Waugh (11), Ethan Hill (9) and fine cameo from Arthur Howes who finished on 16 not out. Kimball Bevington also struck a fine lofted cover drive for 4.
Setting a target of 101, as we did, never felt like it was going to be enough and Hemel comfortably powered to victory in under 14 overs.
So, alas, once again, it was not to be.
As the game finished our whole group (team and parents) were initially very 'downbeat'...but very quickly the "realisation" of what we have achieved this season became apparent :-
- A 2nd consecutive appearance at Finals day.
- 9 wins out of 10 in the league.
- A stunning quarter final performance to win at Harpenden.
- & ultimately we lost against the 'newly crowned County Champions' in the semi finals. Something to be proud of.
But whilst the results are great, this group have made strong bonds and created new friendships. They have become a 'team' in every sense of the word. We've had fun, laughter and tears!. They are such a great group to coach and all of the boys have behaved in the right manner at all times. A real credit to the club that they represent.
A quick word too on Lewis Greenhill, who has captained this team with such warmth, character and maturity. He has been a real 'leader' in every sense of the word, so a massive well done to you Lewis.
Every single child has contributed and they should all feel rightly proud of what they have achieved this season. I wish I could mention you all individually!
Finally a few personal "thank yous" to Simon Waugh, Martin Foden, John McGinn, Colin Greenhill, Dave Hill, Mark Foster, Andy Pickup and to absolutely all of the parents who have supported me and the team during our journey this Summer. . . . I don't like cricket??
Losing the toss for the umpteenth time this Summer, we were put in to bat and Tom Foden (15) and Ciaran Wilson (9) set a decent platform of 30-0 from 7 overs. However, the Hemel bowling attack soon gained a tighter 'grip' on the game and we only just managed to reach the 100 mark (finishing on 100-9 after 20 overs) - largely thanks to Sam McGinn (15) , Charlie Waugh (11), Ethan Hill (9) and fine cameo from Arthur Howes who finished on 16 not out. Kimball Bevington also struck a fine lofted cover drive for 4.
Setting a target of 101, as we did, never felt like it was going to be enough and Hemel comfortably powered to victory in under 14 overs.
So, alas, once again, it was not to be.
As the game finished our whole group (team and parents) were initially very 'downbeat'...but very quickly the "realisation" of what we have achieved this season became apparent :-
- A 2nd consecutive appearance at Finals day.
- 9 wins out of 10 in the league.
- A stunning quarter final performance to win at Harpenden.
- & ultimately we lost against the 'newly crowned County Champions' in the semi finals. Something to be proud of.
But whilst the results are great, this group have made strong bonds and created new friendships. They have become a 'team' in every sense of the word. We've had fun, laughter and tears!. They are such a great group to coach and all of the boys have behaved in the right manner at all times. A real credit to the club that they represent.
A quick word too on Lewis Greenhill, who has captained this team with such warmth, character and maturity. He has been a real 'leader' in every sense of the word, so a massive well done to you Lewis.
Every single child has contributed and they should all feel rightly proud of what they have achieved this season. I wish I could mention you all individually!
Finally a few personal "thank yous" to Simon Waugh, Martin Foden, John McGinn, Colin Greenhill, Dave Hill, Mark Foster, Andy Pickup and to absolutely all of the parents who have supported me and the team during our journey this Summer. . . . I don't like cricket??
Further reading
Team Sponsors
