HAT-TRICK INSPIRES U12 EAGLES TO 'EMPHATIC' VICTORY

The U12 Eagles A team made it “7 wins out of 7” on Sunday evening, in a home game that included a hat-trick from Luca Livermore.

This HJL U12A Group 1 fixture started with the loss of the toss and the away side Broxbourne 2’s choosing to field. The game only went one way from that point. Our openers, Ciaran W and Max F, got off to a steady start making sure we didn’t lose any early wickets. The opposition may have regretted their decision at the toss as the Eagles amassed a [season high] total of 157 for the loss of only 2 wickets. Notable innings include Ciaran W (25 not out retired), Charlie W (27 not out retired) and Sam M (25 not out retired). This was backed up by Lewis G (16) and Ethan H (17 not out).

Once again, our depth of bowling continues to be so impressive. There are so many options open to this team that it makes our bowling attack so strong. All of the bowlers were on form, but particular mentions must go to Austen G (2 wickets) and Lewis G - also 2 wickets - one of which was a superb solo caught and bowled effort.

However, the star of the bowling show was undoubtedly Luca L who achieved the rare and impressive feat of a hat-trick . Luca ultimately finished with the outstanding figures of 3 wickets for 4 runs off 3 overs. Luca’s first 2 wickets were a great catch by Austen G (which came at him at pace) and the other was clean bowled middle stump. However the best was saved for the last, the actual hat-trick ball itself. The catch at extra cover by Sam McGinn will undoubtedly go down as the ‘catch of the season’ and it sparked a 'joyous' team celebration. Sam ran 10 meters to his right to make the most amazing dive, to grab the ball out of the air with his right hand. Quite spectacular and also quite poetic that it was on the hat-trick ball itself. A moment that will live long in the memory.

This strong bowling performance limited the opposition to just 83 for 7 wicket and a huge victory margin of 74 runs. A mention to Will R for stepping up so brilliantly to replace Charlie W as wicket keeper, after the latter was feeling unwell.

Another great team performance and as always, whilst there were moments of brilliance from individual players, it is the team spirit and camaraderie that is all important to this group, as they continue to progress. The only negative from the whole day was the number of extras given away. Something to focus on!! A big thank you to Simon W, Colin G and John M for all their help on the day.