AN excellent weekend for Brecon CC with both teams recording victories against their Ebbw Vale opponents.
The 1st team at last recorded that elusive first victory of the season with a 42 run victory at what was the third attempt and it will now be hoped that last season’s normal service will be resumed. Meanwhile the 2nd team recorded a hard fought three wicket home victory against the Ebbw Vale 2nd team.
The 1st team at Ebbw Vale batted first and posted a very creditable 243 for 8. Amongst the runs were James Hudson (64) and Gethin Phillips (61) in a century stand taking full advantage of the fine batting strip at Ebbw Vale. Also taking advantage of the facilities were Richard Lovering with a nicely struck 62 and Rhys Pritchard with a quick fire 15.
In reply the home team made a bold effort to take the spoils based on a 70 run opening stand but a late batting collapse induced by Tom Jones with 3 for 24 cost them dearly and into the bargain a 42 run defeat. Also amongst the wickets for Brecon were James Hudson (2 for 32), Gethin Phillips (2 for 52) and Richard Lovering (1 for 24).
At home, in a game sponsored by B Jenkins Builders Merchants, Brecon, the 2nd team restricted Ebbw Vale to 121 for 9 for what appeared a below par total, however when the visitors bowled they made Brecon struggle to cross the winning line.
The main wicket takers for Brecon were skipper John Cooke (3 for 16), Steve Kenchington (2 for 14), and Ryan Morgan (2 for 19). Opening bowlers Peter Owens and Derek Osborne also chipped in with a wicket each.
Brecon’s reply seemed to be going well with an opening stand of 37 between Mark Waldeck (16) and Rowan Starkey (14). This was backed up by further partnership of 49 between Gwyn Price (37) and Terry Dickson (22) before a clatter of wickets saw Ebbw Vale come back into the game.
Price however dug in before he too fell with the totals all square but the winning line was crossed with three wickets in hand for Brecon. Full credit must be given to the young Ebbw Vale seam bowlers who made Brecon work hard for the victory that retains the home team’s unbeaten start to the season.