Men's Summer County Cup Report
The team embarked on their Summer County Cup journey with high hopes and a squad built to win. On day one, they faced a formidable challenge against Durham and Cleveland, where only a few years ago had suffered a heavy 8-1 defeat. The matches were closely contested, but the team secured a 6-3 victory. All pairs delivering, but narrowly missing out on defeating the top pair from Durham and Cleveland, indicating the level of competition they were up against for the week, a brilliant display from all pairs, including the reunion of Andrew Higham and Jamie Crowfoot.
Day two brought another set of challenges as the team went up against Norfolk. The matches were fiercely contested, with Eban Straker-Meads and Marcus Walters involved in two incredible close matches, with both being decided by match tiebreaks. Unfortunately, Eban and Marcus fell just short, losing both tiebreaks in agonizingly close fashion. This pivotal moment turned the tide in favour of Norfolk, resulting in a loss for the team. But a shining light of Dom West and Phoenix Weir ignited the spark for things to come taking 3 from 3.
Determined to bounce back, the team faced Lancashire, their likely promotion rivals, on day three. Fuelled by the previous day's defeat, the team played with renewed energy and focus. Their efforts paid off as they dominated the first round of matches, taking out their number 1 pair who were previously undefeated and setting the scene for the day. Changes were made to preserve players, with the whole team involved in securing a fiery 8-1 victory. This win not only boosted their confidence but also marked them as serious contenders for promotion.
Riding high on their newfound momentum, the team faced Berkshire next. Once again, they showcased their formidable form, delivering another impressive 8-1 win. The players were in sync, their strategies executed flawlessly, and their confidence soared as they moved closer to their ultimate goal. Dom and Phoenix dropping only 7 games across the day, and establishing themselves as the pair to beat.
The final hurdle was against Leicestershire. The team knew that a strong performance would secure their top spot and promotion into Division 3. They approached the matches with a mix of determination and excitement. Their hard work and perseverance paid off as they clinched a 5-1 victory, solidifying their position at the top of the standings.
With the final win against Leicestershire, the team celebrated their well-deserved promotion into Division 3. The competition had been a rollercoaster of emotions, with highs and lows testing their resolve. But through teamwork, resilience, and sheer determination, they emerged victorious, ready to take on new challenges in the higher division.
Ben Mactaggart & Phil Peters
