CRICKETIN ANOTHER close-fought game Ryde 1st XI emerged victorious over Midhurst, their top of the table rivals from last year.
Nick Drysdale was again in scintillating form and made light work of the opening bowlers. Alongside him, Joey Valvona also batted superbly off the back of his fine effort the previous week. They scored at a quick pace and shared a partnership of 167 for the first wicket, until Valvona was superbly caught and bowled on 47.
Drysdale fell shortly after for 109, which sparked a mini collapse for the home side.
Mark Oatley, Pete Dickinson, Blair Granger and Charlie Sammons all performed well late in the innings to give the home side a fantastic 293. T. Atkins was the pick of the bowlers with 5-34.
Ryde bowled well, with Granger taking a wicket in the first over but S. Lush was in impressive form and kept the run rate at a good level. T. Dixon (45) ably supported him but as the game went on and wickets began to tumble, the run rate increased.
Lush still gave them hope, steadily picking up a boundary an over.
But the task became too tough for Lush as he finished on 115 not out and his side 265-8 off their 50 overs. An incredible 558 runs scored on the day and another close game.
Ryde travel to Fawley next.