Elstree 125 Northchuch 127-2

Hertfordshire Division Three

A magnificent half century from Gary Watson was not enough to help Elstree to their first win since July.

Elstree, who were missing Mike Green, Bob Small, Andy Cadogan, Dave Smith and John Margerisson, were never really in the match.

A poor batting performance, with the exception of Watson, led to their downfall. No-one could provide Watson with the kind of support that he needed.

Dave Barnett was run out early on and when debut maker Stuart Walter (24) departed, Elstree's innings fell apart. The rest of the batting line-up failed to get into double figures.

Bowlers Frank Lillywhite and stand-in skipper Andy Green failed to claim the early wickets Elstree were looking for.

The introduction of Dave Buckle and Graham Cane could not turn things round. Northchurch reached 127 for the loss of just two wickets. Elstree are third from bottom but 58 points in front of bottom-placed Waltham.

The 2nd XI have given themselves a glimmer of hope of staying up with a three-run win over Northchurch. With just one game remaining, Elstree are just two points above the relegation zone.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000.Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.