Match Reports - 2006 Onwards - 3rd XI

6th May 2006

Disastrous Start for Sully

With a much weakened side, due to unavailability and 2nd XI call ups, the 3rd XI kicked off the league season by collapsing like a pack of cards at Crumlin. The hosts batted first and Centurions could have felt pleased with their performance in the field, getting them all out for just 118. Christian Bruce was top man with a five wicket haul.

However, no-one could have predicted what came next as the batsmen never got going. One by one the wickets fell, with no fewer than 4 first ball dismissals. The collapse ended at 38 all out. Let's chalk it up to experience and move on!!

13th May 2006

Carnage at Penarth!!

The 3rd XI made the short trip to Penarth and were greeted with an opening bowling salvo from a familiar face who had played against our 1st XI in the Welsh Cup last week (maybe he had been dropped!)

Anyway, we were bowled out for 104, which at least was a big improvement on last week. Top scorer was Herbie Miller with a stubborn 46. The hosts knocked them off in 11 overs for the loss of only 2 wickets. The most memorable thing about the match was the amount of blood spilt. Barnie was hit on the nose by the ball, leaving his face looking like he'd done 10 rounds with Mike Tyson, and Gareth Fiddler split the webbing in his finger attempting a catch off Quimby's bowling - however, he recovered from the dropped catch quickly enough to get a run out. Fid was also the only bowler to take a wicket, so he will have more than one reason to remember this match.

Although both Fid and Barnie were in need of some TLC after their endeavours, perhaps the whole team needs a bit of rehabilitation before next week's game!

Penarth III 105/2 Sully 104 ao

3rd June 2006

Weakened Side Loses at Caerphilly

After a morning spent rearranging the side, due to 2nd XI call-ups, including Donny and David (Youth Policy) Sylvester, the 3rds travelled to face a strong Caerphilly & Bedwas side with a team packed with young faces and 4th XI regulars.

The home team batted first and reached 220 for 7, with best figures going to stand in skipper Christian Bruce (2 for 30). The Centurion response never really got going and we crashed to 105 all out. Top scorers were Brucie with 38 and Chris Taylor (28).

10/6/06

Defeat At Croesy

The 3rd XI were made to toil in the heat at Coesyceiliog as the home side amassed a total of 234 for 6. Best bowling came from Aaron Smith who posted figures of 2 for 20.

In spite of a marathon half century from David Sylvester and 20 from Christian Bruce, Centurions couldn't keep up with the required run rate and were eventually dismissed for just 133.

17/6/06

Oh Dear (Again!)

This was an absolute disaster at Rhoose - as the 3rds were dismissed for just 50 runs by a rampant Great Western side.

The visitors knocked off the runs in just 11 overs for the loss of no wickets.

Enough said!

25th June 2006

On Sunday a strong 3rd XI side travelled to Monkswood and after a fantastic innings of 322 for 7 and with Monkswood on 65 for 4 the rains came and washed out any further play, leaving the match null and void.

Top batsmen for Centurions were Matthew Thomas (97) Julian Griffiths (58) and Mike Lewis (58). John Gee got 3 for 15 in the Monkswood innings, but it was all for nothing.

24th June 2006

Close, But No Cigar!

The thirds travelled to Mountain Ash and performed nuch better than in recent weeks, but still couldn't notch up that first win of the season

Batting first Centurions finished the 45 overs on 172 for 7 with most of the batsmen making a contribution. Top scorers were Dave and Don Sylvester with 33 and 31 respectively. Oz Bennett, enjoying his comeback scored 25 and Guru Patel, back from University, hit 22.

Don was the pick of the bowlers with 3 for 20 and Gareth Fiddler bowled an accurate 12 over spell finishing on 1 for 31. But the home side just managed to reach the target for the loss of 7 wickets.

Mountain Ash 174/7 Sully 172/7

1st July 2006 Another Disappointing Defeat

A catastrophic batting collapse saw the 3rds slump from 60 for 0 to 126 all out at Bridgend. With last minute call ups from the 4th XI and the loss of some key players to the 2nds it was always going to be struggle but after that decent start it all went wrong and the home side reached the target with ease.

8th July 2006 Huge Mountain To Climb at Rhoose!

The 3rds entertained top of the table Christchurch at Rhoose. The visitors batted first and were in trouble in the 2nd over when Derek Allen had B. Edwards out for a duck with the score on 4. This turned into 33 for 2 when Allen claimed another scalp to give Centurions reason for optimism. This only brought together Morgans and R. Edwards who shared a stand of 136 to completely transform the match. In spite of some good bowling from Derek Allen and Gareth Dodd (it’s nice to see him back in action) and a couple of late wickets from David Sylvester the game ran away from Sully – with Christchurch ending on a massive 298 for 7.

In reply the highest score came from Don Sylvester (25) and in spite of couple of spirited innings from David Sharpe (19) and Aaron Smith (24) the mountain was just to big for Sully to climb and the last wicket fell at 146 in the 38th over.

15th July 2006

3rds Lose Out Again

A spirited batting performance by Centurions was not enough to prevent a 10 wicket defeat at the hands of St Peter's in Cardiff.

Batting first Sully reached 152 for 8 at the end of the 45 overs. A reasonable score, but it could have been more, as the Donny disease struck, with the skipper hitting 30 in 30 overs.

In reply the Sully attack was slapped all over the parish as the home side reached the target without losing a single wicket.

St Peters 153/0 Sully 152/8

22nd July 2006

Victory At Last

A century from Hughie Smith was the highlight of this display as the 3rds finally broke their duck with an 8 wicket win at Blaina. The home side won the toss and batted firts. Sully's best bowling was from Guru Patel and Gareth Dodd who both bagged three wickets each, ably supported by John Wooden and Lewis Doel - and Blaina finished on a decent score of 202 all out.

In response Hugh Smith produced a great display of batting as he rattled up his first century for Sully, with some good support from Don Sylvester (36) and Owain Sullivan (31). Gareth Dodd hit two fours in the final over to secure a great victory for the loss of only 2 wickets.

29th July 2006

Win Number 2

The 3rds notched up their 2nd victory of the season with this convincing win at Croesyceiliog. Herbie Miller (66) and Don Sylvester (33) put on 112 for the first wicket, which provided a sound platform for the team to build on - Aaron Smith came in at number 3 and scored 22. Christian Bruce (17) and Chris Taylor(18) were the other significant figures in a final total of 190 for 8.

In the Croesy innings Gareth Fiddler bagged 3 for 43 , Matthew Dando got 2 for 21, as did Lewis Doel and the old fox, Don Sylvester mopped up the tail with a late spell of 2 for 9. Another talking point was Jacob Stone, who impressed in his unfamiliar position behind the stumps, as the home side collapsed to 129 all out.

5th August 2006

Winning Streak Comes Off The Rails At Great Western

The 3rd XI travelled to Bridgend to face a strong Great Western side. The league leaders batted first and, thanks to some big hitting from Hibbert (100) and Williams (72) reached an impressive 271 for 7 at the end of the allotted 45 overs. Lewis Doel (2 for 57) and Herbie Miller (2 for 38) were the pick of the Sully bowlers.

Herbie also excelled with the bat, top scoring with 56. Some sterling support from captain Don Sylvester, with 30 and Aaron Smith (25) helped Centurions to a respectable total, but, with Williams bagging 4 for 41, we were always behind the required run rate and when the 45 overs were up the score was 184 for 9.

This was a setback after the victories of the last two weeks, but it was certainly no disgrace.

Great Western 271/7 Sully 184/9

19th August 2006

3rds Fail to Roll Away The 'Rocks'

The 3rds played host to St Peters at Rhoose and unfortunately came off second best.

St Peters batted first on a 'normal' Rhoose track that was slow and had variable bounce, but they applied themselves well to the task in hand and reached exactly 200 all out. David Goodway, John Wooden and Gareth Fiddler took 2 wickets each.

In reply the target was always going to be a difficult one. In spite of a fine 82 not out from Quimby and some good support from Sam Docherty, Brucie and Huw Williams, the final total was 133 for 5 after the 45 overs

Sully 133/5 St Peters 200 ao

26th August 2006

8 Wicket Defeat At Rhoose

The 3rds played host to Monkswood with only 10 men and ended up losing by eight wickets. Aaron Smith (25) and Don Sylvester (24) were the main run scorers as they ended on 144 all out.

The visitors (thanks in the main to a fine 60 from G Trew) reached the target for the loss of 2 wickets. Centurions’ wicket takers were Gareth Fiddler and Aaron Smith.

So another season ends with a defeat, but there have been some signs that next year will see an improvement, with plenty of youngsters pushing their claims for inclusion.

2007 Match Reports

Poor Start at Wenvoe

The 3rd XI 'celebrated' their first game of the season at their new Wenvoe home by being thoroughly overrun by visitors Caerphilly and Bedwas. The home total of just 72 was never going to be enough and the Caerphilly side took very little time at all in reaching the required 73 runs.

Centurions 72 ao Caerphilly & Bedwas 73/2

26/5/07 Uphill Struggle for 3rds

The 3rd XI entertained Blaina at Wenvoe and came up against a very strong side with former Abertillery players contributing to Blaina's big total.

G Cooper (109) and A Cooper (41) added 83 for the first wicket, Cooper aided by some loose bowling, and good support from Edwards and Griffiths kept the scoreboard ticking merrily to enable Blaina to total 272-7 after their 45 overs.

Christian Bruce, with 4 late wickets, was the most successful Sully bowler.

Centurions reply, after a hard afternoon in the field, was perhaps to be expected, and only Don Sylvester's marathon innings of some 20 overs for 19, and Darren Johnson 21, managed to reach double figures.

Blaina 272-7. Centurions 101 ao.

Big Defeat At Caerphilly

A trip to Caerphilly & Bedwas ended in a 9 wicket defeat for the 3rds. Batting first they only managed to reach 70 all out against a very strong team.

In reply the home side were clinical in reaching the target for the loss of only one wicket. This was not one to savour (ouch!)

Caerphilly & Bedwas 71/1 Sully 70ao

Crushed at Croesy

The 3rds travelled to Croesyceiliog with a weakened team due to 2nd XI call ups. Batting first Centurions struggled to keep wickets intact and only an innings worthy of a 5-day match from Don 'Block'em' Sylvester (47 in 43 overs) gave the final total of 135/5 some respectability. In reply the Croesy batsmen were always in control as they set about reaching the target. This was reached for the loss of 5 wickets.

Croesyceiliog 139/5 Sully 135/5

Sunday Best Victory

The 3rds finally won for the 1st time this season with this victory against high flying Monkswood. The visitors batted first and Centurions kept the pressure on by restricting them with some accurate bowling . Four wickets each for Lloyd Bruce and Lewis Doel were the main talking points as Monkswood were all out for just 117.

In reply the early loss of Sean Davies and Don Sylvester did not deter Sully as Gareth Sullivan hit a half century and the target was reached for the loss of 6 wickets.

Sully 118/6 Monkswood 117 ao

3rds Beat the Weather, But Not the Opposition!

The 3rd XI travelled the short distance to Penarth for only their second game in five weeks and came off a very poor second to strong opposition. Centurions batted first and only Christian Bruce, who scored a very creditable 48, got anything like a decent score as wickets tumbled all around him. Penarth’s bowlers had a field day, with Stephens getting 5 for 22 and Morgan posting figures of 4 for 22 as Centurions ended on 111 all out.

The home reply didn’t take long- reaching the target for the loss of only two wickets. Derek Allen’s 1 for 10 was the pick of the Sully bowling, but this was one game the 3rds would probably wish had been washed out, like the last few have been.

Penarth 116/2 Sully 111 ao

Rare Victory at Rhoose

The 3rds notched up their 2nd victory of the season at Rhoose with an empahatic 9 wicket victory over Croesyceiliog. The visitors were bundled out for 60 and the runs were polished off by Sully for the loss of only one wicket.

No Way Back At Chepstow

After last week's victory it was down to earth with a crash at Chepstow. Captain Fantastic Donny Sylvester won the toss and inserted the opposition - almost 400 runs later this was beginning to look like a bad choice! Nobody's bowling figures looked particularly nice, but at least Christian Bruce managed to get 4 wickets for his 95 runs!

In response Donny played a true Boycott innings and dogged out a red inker for just 29 runs. Brucie also got 29, but he took a little less time about it. The final total was respectable, but still 243 runs short. As Donny said ' we got 8 points from this match' - that's the ticket, look on the bright side, skip...

Chepstow III 396-8 Sully 153-7

Weakened Side Crashes at Monkswood

With a number of regulars unavailable a youthful 3rd XI traveled to Monkswood for this final match of the season. The home side batted first and reached a big score of 356.

Centurions managed to reach 160 in reply, but the weakened side couldn't match the hosts' powerful batting display.

Monkswood 356ao Sully 160 ao

4th XI Match Reports 2006 Onwards

6th May 2006

Poor Start at Rhoose

The 4th XI season got underway with a home defeat to Crumlin 2nds. Batting first the (mostly) young Centurion side were made to struggle for runs as one by one batsmen got going only to lose their wicket soon after. The bright spot was the 16 scored by number 10 batsman Josh Bryan, who looks one for the future. Nathan Cuddihy could have got a lot more than his 9 but for the rush of blood to the head that saw him play a wild shot at a poor ball and got himself bowled. We finished on 76 all out.

We made a decent start in the field as Lewis Doel burgled a wicket with a rank full toss that the batsman missed completely, to leave Crumlin on 5 for 1. In spite of another Doel wicket the visitors gradually regained composure and took control. Mick (Captain Marvel) Fisher took a wicket, thanks to a great catch from Greg Tressider (but the least said about the wides the better!)

Although Nathan Cuddihy bowled accurately in his spell at the end, finishing with 2 maidens out of 2.3 overs, the target was reached in the 21st over.

The boys can learn from this, but we've got a big one next week, with Penarth 4ths visiting.

3rd June 2006

Young Side Slumps to Defeat

The 4ths got back to action after 3 wet Saturdays and, after several last minute call-ups to the 3rd XI, a side containing no less than 8 juniors took to the field against a strong Caerphilly & Bedwas 2nd XI.

Batting first Centurions could only reach 87 all out, with top batting honours going to Lloyd Bruce with a fine 30. Both Lloyd and Shae Ellis (who reached 18) batted very well to give some stability to the middle order, as well as taking us to a reasonably respectable total.

The visitors' reply was clinical - they reached the target in the 18th over, for the loss of only one wicket (Tom Ensor getting the benefit of an LBW decision).

Oh well, at least we got home in time for Dr Who!

10th June 2006 Another Defeat, But Much Improved Showing!

On a baking hot afternoon, when everybody's mind was on the World Cup, the 4th XI went down at home to Croesyceiliog 4ths, however, this was by far our best display of the season so far.

After losing opener 'uncle' Terry Sylvester for 4, new boy Nick Jones (15) and Lloyd Bruce (12) put on 29 for the second wicket when Lloyd was bowled. We then suffered an amazing collapse, which wasn't helped by a couple of disastrous run outs, as we slumped from 35 for 1 to 45 for 5 in the space of 4 overs. This brought together Paul Fisher and Tom Ensor, who got us back on course with a 60 run partnership. Paul, who hit seven 4s and a huge 6, was finally bowled for 36 in the 30th over with the score on 107. Tom followed two overs later, having scored a very good 27. We eventually were all out for a respectable 142 in the 38th over.

Gareth Fiddler bowled an accurate opening spell - eventually ending with figures of 1 for 27 off 12 overs. Tom Ensor (1 for 25 off 6 overs) and Mick Fisher (1 for 30 off 6) also contributed with the ball, as did Paul Fisher (0 for 4 off three) and Josh Bryan (0 for 9 off 5). Top bowler was Shae Ellis who bagged two wickets for 17 off 8 overs. Unfortunately the last couple of wickets proved elusive and the visitors edged it in the 46th over (having benefitted from Sully's inability to use up the 45 overs).

A special word must go to Lloyd Bruce who pulled off a spectacular catch to dismiss Hagar off the bowling of skipper Mick Fisher. This was a good team performance, despite the result.

17th June 2006 Here We Go Again!

The 4ths travelled up to Brynmawr and won the toss for the 4th time in a row - opting to bat on a scorching hot day. Disater struck in the first over when a suicidal call from Terry Sylvester left Peter Sherratt stranded 10 yards from home - out without facing a ball. Terry followed in the next over - bowled for 4. The troubles kept mounting up when Nick Jones was caught for a duck and Centurions were 4 for 3 in the 2nd over. After 10 overs we had slumped to 23 for 6 and an early tea looked on the cards. But a 46 run partnership between Paul Harrison (35) and Robert Gill (10) gave the score some respectability. Nathan Sherratt was the not out batsman (6) when the last wicket fell for 88.

After tea there was some brief hope when first Tom Ensor and then Jacob Stone had wickets (both helped by Terry Sylvester's catches) and the home side were 10 for 2. Peter Sherratt dismissed Hemming for 24 before two appeals (Evans caught and bowled off Sherratt and Davies caught behind off Jones) were turned down in quick succession. Unfortunately for Sully, the lucky batsmen went on to remain unbeaten and saw Bryanmawr home.

Brynmawr 89/3 Sully 88 ao

24th June 2006

So Near, But So Far

The 4ths played host to Mountain Ash 2nds - and on a hot day at Rhoose we lost the toss and were put in to field. The Tom Ensor got us off to a great start with a wicket with his 2nd ball, thanks to a smart catch behind the stumps from Shae Ellis. Then a run out, courtesy of Jacob Stone, had the visitors at 1 for 2 at the end of the over. Things kept going Centurions' way as Nick Jones pitched in with 2 wickets and Tom Ensor got two in two balls to leave Mountain Ash reeling at 41 for 6 after 11 overs. But we couldn't finish the job and a 46 run partnership between G Lewis and J Lewis gave the visitors' score some respectability. Lloyd Bruce bowled an accurate 10 over spell and could have had more than his 1 for 33 if some catches had stuck. Mark White was by far our best fielder, contributing to the second run out and stopping several boundaries. Brucie senior and Tom Ensor (in his second spell) wrapped up the tail, Mountain Ash ending on 126 all out, with Tom finishing with 4 for 17.

The Centurions' reply was steady and seemed to be on track until we lost three wickets for 9 runs, going from 38 for 0 to 47 for 3 in the space of 3 overs. A fine 28 from David Sharpe and 19 from Josh Bryan brought us back within touching distance of the target, but the tail didn't wag and we were all out for 114, just 12 runs short. So, another defeat, but there were some plus points - including the fact that we managed to pick up maximum bowling points for the first time this season and the spirit within the side is bouyant, despite our position in the table.

Sully 114 all out Mountain Ash 126 all out

1st July 2006 Disaster in the Sun

The 4ths entertained Bridgend 4ths on a boiling hot day at Rhoose and slumped to a 10 wicket defeat. With the side being decimated by call ups to the 3rd XI and with three players making their debuts it was never going to be an easy task. Skipper Mick Fisher was out 2nd ball of the innings and the rot set in there and then. Only Shae Ellis managed a decent score as he stayed around long enough to get a very good 39 before being bowled in the 21st over. The bating collapsed at a rate of knots and we were all out for 76.

The Bridgend opening pair reached the target in the 14th over and we were all home to watch the extra time in Germany ('nuff said about that!)

8th July 2006

A Hammering in The Valleys!

The 4th XI travelled to Ferndale for the fixture against Christchurch 2nds, who are runaway leaders of the league. After winning the toss skipper Mick Fisher opted to bat, but Jacob Stone was out in the 2nd over with only 4 runs on the board. After a mini revival, in which Shae Ellis scored a very good 15 before playing on, Centurions lost 2 wickets in 2 balls to leave the score on 31 for 3. A big partnership was required and this came from Rob Hines (39) and Nathan Cuddihy (12) who put on 44 for the 6th wicket. Some sensible batting meant that we used up 42 overs, although the total of 130 all out was always going to be within reach of the home side.

This proved to be the case as Christchurch showed why they are top dogs with a powerful batting display. Only Tom Ensor had any luck with the ball, bowling Francis for 22. Williams had to retire hurt, but not before his half century had made victory a formality for Christchurch, who duly reached the target in the 24th over for the loss of only one wicket.

Christchurch 2nds 133/1 Sully 130 ao

15th July 2006

Oh Dear, Oh Dear, Oh Dear!!

The 4ths game against Pontlanfraith 2nds ended in the heaviset defeat of the season so far. With a few withdrawals and some last minute call ups to the 3rds, it wsn't the strongest side we've ever put out, but no-one was prepared for the complete disaster that ensued.

Wickets fell with monotonous regularity and by the end of the 4th over the score was 10 for 4. With no let up, the visitors pressed home their advantage and skittled Sully out for a paltry 38 in the 15th over. Lloyd Bruce top scored with 9 and there were no fewer than 5 ducks in the total Given that there were 11 extras it could have been even worse!!

The target was reached in the 8th over without loss and it was barely 3.30 when we got back to the changing rooms. This was a game that is best forgotten (and quickly).

Sully 38 ao Pontlanfraith 42 for 0

22nd July 2006

Improved Performance, But Still No Win!

The fourths entertained Blaina 2nds at Rhoose and in spite of a much improved display from last week, still couldn't achieve that elusive first victory.

When Shae Ellis was bowled by an absolutely beautiful inswinging delivery from Blaina's best bowler, A Cane, it didn't look too promising for Centurions, but Lloyd Bruce and Peter Sherratt added 20 runs for the 3rd wicket and with Adam Gilliatt top scoring with 14 the outlook improved a little. However, the last 3 wickets went down within the space of 3 overs and we were all out for just 63. Cane ended with the remarkable figures of 7 for 19.

After tea, Lloyd Bruce showed excellent control as he spun his web to great effect, backed up by some fine keeping from Shae Ellis. Lloyd ended with 4 wickets for just 9 runs, including no less than 5 maidens in his 11 over spell. Greg Tressider also bowled well in his spell, capturing another wicket, but it was all in vain as Blaina reached the target in the 23rd over.

A couple of things that spoiled an otherwise sporting encounter were the excessive calling wides by the Blaina umpires - sometimes the ball passed within inches of the bat and was called 'wide' - and the turning down of at least two legitmate caught behind appeals.

29th July 2006

A Day of Firsts, But No First Victory

The 4ths travelled to Crumlin and rattled up their highest score of the season, but on a day of deteriorating weather conditions, still finished up as losers.

Batting first, things looked decidedly unpromising when the two openers were out within the first two overs for just 6. Then, with an interruption for rain, Peter Sherratt and Nathan Cuddihy put on 50 for the third wicket in a fine display of confident batting. Nathan was out for 29 in the 16th over and Peter was joined by new boy Gareth Long who hit two 4s and a big six in his short, but entertaining innings of 17 before Peter eventually was out LBW on 53 - a first half century for him and the first time this season that a 4th XI player has reached this milestone. Lloyd Bruce then hit a nice 17 and, following a boundary from Nathan Sherratt, the innings came to a conclusion with the score on 156 for 7. This meant four batting points for the first time this year.

Following an excellent tea the rain came back and the restart was delayed - but when things eventually got underway Nathan Cuddihy and Greg Tressider bowled well to dismiss the opening pair for very little. However, in a mirror of Sully's innings, the 3rd wicket partnership swung the game. Steer (65) and Veal (32) got the Crumlin innings back on course and in spite of a late flurry of wickets, including 3 for Shae Ellis, the home side did enough to reach the target for the loss of 7 wickets.

The weather played a big part in the performance of both sides, with players losing their footing on an ever more treacherous surface. In truth, the game should really have been abandoned well before the end, but the plus points were the fine batting performance and the achievement of 9 points from the match. That first win is still elusive, but it must surely just be a matter of time.

5th August 2006

So Close, But Another Defeat

The 4th XI were put in to bat at Croesyceiliog and were soon in trouble when two early wickets left us at 25 for 2. Then a stand of 36 between Mick Fisher (21) and Peter Sherratt (41) gave us some hope of a reasonable score - but no-one else got into double figures and we suffered a collapse from 76 for 4 to 118 all out - with the last 3 wickets falling for no runs at all.

The home side lost their first wicket on 9, with Shae Ellis taking a smart catch off the bowling of Nathan Cuddihy. Nathan added another victim when he bowled James for 23 in his last over. But the 3rd wicket partnership of 57 between L Jones (28) and P Jones (21 not out) swung the game in Croesy's favour - and they won comfortably in the end, in spite of a couple of late wickets.

Plus factors were the batting and bowling of Peter Sherratt, the nice spell of bowling from Nathan Sherratt and the general team spirit. We were also treated an exhibition of spin bowling at its best when Terry Sylvester stepped up for his first spell this season. It was worth the wait!!

12th August 2006

Back to the Drawing Board!

The home fixture against Brynmawr 2nds was a complete disaster - With clouds gathering and the pitch looking slow and low, skipper Mick Fisher's first mistake was to put the visitors in. They proceded to hit the openers all over the field and it was soon time to take the pace off the ball. Lloyd Bruce (2/61) and Mick Fisher (1/43) then bowled pretty accurately,taking 3 wickets between them. Shae Ellis took two catches behind the stumps as the run rate slowed down considerably. However, with the Brynmawr batsmen looking increasingly at home the runs started to flow again - Rob Hines took a great catch to dismiss Hartland for a fine 52. Josh Bryan contributed a fantatsic run out to add to his one wicket, but the talking point was the run out of skipper G Tibbs when he was on 96 - a complete mix-up that led to the simplest of dismissals. In spite of this late clatter of wickets Brynmawr ended on a formiddable 322 for 8.

The Sully innings never really took off. Only three batsmen got into double figure (Cuddihy 15, Ensor 14 and Fisher 10) and the innings was wrapped up in the 27th over when we were all out for just 67. Only 2 games to to break that duck.

19th August 2006

Pie Finds His Level!

The 4th XI travelled to Pontlanfraith with a side that contained more senior players than juniors for the first time this season and nearly pulled off an unlikely victory against the side that had skittled us out for just 38 last month. The home side opted to bat first on a damp wicket and were soon in trouble. The first wicket fell with just 3 runs on the board when Lloyd Bruce enticed Pook into a shot that was smartly caught by David Sylvester. Lloyd also accounted for the next wicket, helped in no small way by one of the catches of the season from Paul Fisher, who dived to his left to dismiss Morgan for just 4 with the score on 20. Greg Tressider bowled a nice accurate spell and was unlucky not to have picked up a wicket. Then Skues and Fowles put on 66 for the 3rd wicket before David Sylvester bowled Fowles for 19. We then a had a break for rain, followed by a batting collapse that saw 6 wickets fall for just 24 runs to leave the home side on 118 for 9. Ben Callow showed what a good prospect he is with a lovely display of spin bowling to end with figures of 3 for 25. All the other wickets went to David Sylvester, who was also responsible for ending the stubborn last wicket stand of 22 to post fgures of 5 for 28 - The Pontlanfraith innings ended on 140 all out - the first time the 4ths have achieved maximum bowling points this year.

The Centurion innings got off to a slow, but steady start and had reached 29 when Paul Harrison was lbw for 10. Geraint Senders managed only 2 before he was bowled with the score on34. Then Mick Fisher went for just 3 (after 11 overs) and the wicket of Lloyd Bruce (12) at 52 seemed to signal a slump in fortunes. Terry Sylvester, Gareth Long and Ben Callow all went cheaply, only some stubborn resistance from David Sylvester stopped the rot and a nice innings of 17 not out from Greg Tressider helped push the score along. Adam Gilliatt was unlucky to see the ball nip off his pads to remove the bails - then Paul Fisher (14) and Greg Tressider put on 18 for the last wicket, but it wasn't enough and the innings finsihed on 103. This was a great improvement but that victory remains elusive.

26th August 2006

Defeat Keeps 100% Record Intact!

The 4ths rounded off the league season with a trip to Pontnewynydd. Batting first on a damp, slow, track we were soon in trouble when Captain Marvel Mick Fisher was out for a duck in the 2nd over. This set the tone for the innings as one by one batsmen were undone by the home attack – nothing special, just a nagging line and length that suited the conditions nicely.

Before long we were 14 for 7 and looking at a new record low score. Then Terry Sylvester(18) and Gareth Long (19) put together a stand of 34 for the 8th wicket, followed by another decent stand of 20 for the 9th wicket between Terry and Rob Hines, before the innings came to a close at 74 all out. Not a great score, but it could have been much worse.

In response the home side stuck to their task and in spite of losing two wickets to the bowling of Greg Tressider (who finished with 2 for 10) they reached the target with plenty of time to spare. A record of played 14 - lost 14!!

So the season ends on a bit of a low note, but there are many plus points to take away - we’ve seen the emergence of some new young (and some not so young!) talent that bodes well for the future - and most importantly of all, we’ve thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

2007 Season Reports

Disaster at Caerphilly

The 4th XI season got underway with a 10 wicket defeat at Caerphilly & Bedwas. Batting first, Centurions lost skipper Mick Fisher for 1 with the score on 3 in the 2nd over. Mark White and Terry Sylvester then put on 26 runs for the second wicket before Terry was caught and bowled by G Mills for 12. Four runs later Mark was bowled for 11 and the collapse was on. Only Paul Fisher of the later batsmen reached double figures, but debutant Gethin Stone hit 8 and Paul Harrison stuck around for a dogged 4 as the wickets tumbled around him. No other Sully batsman troubled the scorers and the innings ended in the 21st over on just 61.

The home side stuck to their task and duly reached the required 62 runs in the 11th over with no loss of wicket. The small target was reached with the help of 31 wides. This obviously will need to improve.

Caerphilly & Bedwas 62/0 Sully 61 ao

19th May 2007 Too Big a Mountain to Climb

The 4th XI's first home game of the season ended in a heavy defeat by Mountain Ash. The visitors batted first and lost a couple of early wickets, when Williams was bowled by Nick Jones and Lewis was run out thanks to quick thinking from Josh Bryan. However, this brought together D Jones and J Jones who put on 73 for the 3rd wicket, after which D Jones went on to share another two big partnerships with Llewellyn and Hughes. By the time he was out for a fine 74 the score was already past the 250 mark. A late flurry of wickets along with some accurate spin bowling from Terry Sylvester kept the score below 300, but Mountain Ash were well satisfied with their total of 276 for 9. Nick Jones picked up 2 wickets and Liam Bennett bagged 3, with one apiece for Rick Griffett, Terry Sylvester and Gethin Stone. Josh Bryan was a star in the field, taking three catches. Paul Harrison spilt blood in the cause and Adam Gilliatt showed great agility behind the stumps.

The Centurions' innings got off to a poor start and four wickets were lost very cheaply. But Nick Jones hit a good 27 and Rick Griffett played a great innings, which included 8 boundaries, as he narrowly missed a half century, being bowled when he was on 48. The last few wickets fell pretty quickly and Sully were all out for 122. So, another defeat, but a great improvement on the first game.

Sully 122 ao Mountain Ash 276/9

So Close at Blaina

The 4ths travelled to Blaina on a dull overcast afternoon and were narrowly beaten in a thrilling contest. Centurions batted first and the new opening partnership of Paul Harrison and Jacob Stone brought some much needed stability to the top order. Paul went for his shots and Jacob played anchorman in a partnership of 31 before Paul was caught out on 21. This brought Ricky Griffett to the crease and another 30 was added for the second wicket. A mini collapse then followed as two wickets fell within 6 runs to leave the score on 69 for 4. Ricky was finally out for a well taken 37 and with some decent batting from Josh Bryan (12) and Adam Gilliatt (9 not out) the total came to 136 all out in the 43rd over.

Tom Ensor and Greg Tressider gained some early success with the ball, but although three wickets went down the runs were flowing freely and by the 10th over Blaina were 66 for 3. Skipper Mick Fisher entered the fray and posted figures of 2 for 26 in 7 overs. At the other end Josh Bryan (1 for 14) Liam Bennett (2 for 29) and a fine diving catch by Nick Jones gave Centurions the hope of an unlikely victory, but the winning runs were scored in the 24th over with two wickets still intact. Although this was a defeat, it was a closely fought match and the team is improving with every passing week.

Blaina 138/8 Centurions 136 ao

Defeat At Rhoose

A poor performance against the top of the table visitors resulted in a heavy 9 wicket defeat for the 4th XI. Batting first Centurions never really got going and only new boy Stuart Kemp (16 not out) Gethin Sone (13) and travelling man David Sharpe (11) reached double figures in a total of 90 all out.

The response was never in doubt. One early wicket for Greg Tressider and some accurate bowling from Josh Bryan and Nick Jones were the plus points of an otherwise forgettable afternoon.

Sully 90ao Caerphilly & Bedwas 91/1

Victory at Last!!!


The 4th XI notched up their first ever victory with this defeat of Croesyceiliog at Rhoose. Batting first on a hot afternoon Centurions were soon in trouble when makeshift openers Gethin Stone and Nick Jones were back in the pavilion with only 12 runs on the board. Things got worse with loss of more wickets and by the 18th over the score was 73 for 7. Enter Josh Bryan and Greg Tressider who put on 59 for the 8th wicket. Josh was finally out for 47 with the score on 132. Greg was then joined by young Daniel Chaulk who batted very sensibly in support, which allowed Greg to carry on playing his shots in a stand of 70 before Greg was bowled in the 43rd over for a well made 57. The innings finished on 209, the highest the 4ths have ever scored.

After tea the visitors made a good start and in contrast to Centurions' innings were 74 for 2 after 16 overs. Josh Bryan and Paul Fisher then picked up 3 wickets each to put the pressure on the Croesyceiliog batsmen. This, combined with a miserly spell of 1 for 10 off 7 overs from Bradman and some more accurate bowling from Greg Tressider, took Centurions to victory as the innings closed on 175 for 9.

The Strongbow tasted pretty good at the Sully Inn after the match!

Sully 209ao Croesyceiliog 175/9

Cricket At Last - But No Joy!

After an 8 week wait the 4ths finally got some cricket played - but we were wishing we'd been rained off again by the end of this game at Croesyceiliog. After inserting the opposition, Centurions did pretty well to restrict them to 131 for 7 after the allotted overs. Opening pair Nick Jones and Greg Tressider got us off to a good start with some accurate bowling and this was backed up by most of the other bowlers (special mentions to Daniel Chaulk and Luke Denning who bowled very well). The least said about the 2 overs of pure filth from a certain webmaster the better!

In reply we simply fell apart as one poor shot followed another and we were soon all out for just 44. Only a gutsy 13 (including a six) from the resurrected Muzzy Ord gave us anything to cheer. Oh well, at least we had a game of cricket!

Defeat at Wenvoe

The 4ths, with Jimmy Ord making a welcome return, played their only game at Wenvoe but were second best to a Chepstow side who hadn't won a match until this one.

The much changed side batted first and openers Holmes and Ord scored 25 between them (Jim got a duck!). Lewis Doel enjoyed his batting and top scored with 26. Jon Ord added another 14 to his 13 not out from last week. The final score was a respectable 126 all out.

Chepstow got the required runs for the loss of only one wicket. Lewis Doel was the only successful Sully bowler with 1 for 19.

Sully 126 ao Chepstow 129/1

Defeat in Final Match

The 4ths entertained Pontlanfraith with a much changed side due to the non availability of several players. Batting first we reached 95 all out - thanks in the main to a swashbuckling 34 from Jim Ord.

Some decent bowling gave us a chance and 2 wickets apiece for Jon Ord and Liam Bennett, along with a run out kept hopes up. But the visitors reached the target with no further loss.

So, another season has slipped away - let's hope we get to play a little more cricket next summer.

Sully 95ao Pontlanfraith 99/5