The scene was set. Mighty Limpley descended on the humble Bitton for a game that will live long in the memory of neutrals and players alike. After hearing of the 500 + runs scored the day before in a limited overs game, SkipSmith won the toss and elected to bat. Fresh from a massive opening stand the week before, the Smith/Twist opening combination was re-united. Now one glance at the score book from the opposition would've had them seriously worried. All fears were soon dispelled, however, Twist looking to the heavens for help and a big heave ho - bowled second ball. KIT-BOY!!! Next up, Richards S. Another duck, trapped before. In the mean time, Smith had knocked his way to another quick fire 50, adding to his already impressive total. Gregory scratched round for a 22, and was also soon back in the pavilion.

Smith needed a partner, and a partner he got. Up steps Big Al Richards. Dropped down the order in search of some confidence, he smashed his way to an impressive 71 - more runs than all this years previous innings. A welcome return to form. A couple of twenties here and there and from an impressive tail set a target of 250. The dressing room was quietly confident. Smith 82; Big Al 71.

250 is a defendable total on most days. A good start with both the openers out cheaply, it was looking like a drink with the opposition, 2 down the Hop Hole and home in time for 24. Not to be. A combination of good batting from Nick Nolte and Buster Bloodvessel, a wet outfield, sopping cricket ball and some poor bowling, and Bitton were cruising! Gregory then took the wicket of Nolte, who made an impressive ton [apparently made a few in his career, so no shame], and all of a sudden it was game on. A good tight spell from one end was unfortunately not enough. It was all down to the last over - 9 needed. Nozza given the responsibility. Unluckily one bad ball in the over was punished accordingly. That left one run from 3 balls. 2 dot balls later and the pressure was on, 1 run needed off of 1 ball. A streaky inside edge beat a diving SkipSmith and got the run that was needed. Even though they had the pick of the conditions, it is a game that we should have won. Kendall the pick of the bowlers: 13-37-4

THIS JUST IN: Scoring Scandal! It has come to our attention that one of our scorers was on the take - short changing Smith by 2 runs, thus losing us the game. A combination of this and corned beef rolls for tea, leaves a bitton taste in the mouth.

Leigh Kendall