Starting the day at the bottom of the table on minus 26 points, having had points deducted for twice failing to fulfill league fixtures, as well as having been fined, Shildon Railway Cricket Club’s 2nd XI upset the odds at the Sportsfield when they defeated visitors Philadelphia.
Having won the toss, Philadelphia chose to bat on another flat Shildon wicket and raced to 201 for 6 (T.Wray 119 not out) in just 35 overs, before declaring the innings.
Maybe this was a sign of over confidence on the visitors’ behalf as Shildon stuck manfully to their task, led by Drew Kirtley who hit 65.
However, with the score at 175 for 8, defeat stared Shildon firmly in the face, until up stepped skipper Andy Paterson. His 41 not out, ably assisted by a resilient Ian Wickens in a partnership of 29, saw Shildon home in the 43rd over.
Hopefully this will be a turning point in the team’s fortunes and the side will begin to climb the table.
The first team lost again and slumped to second bottom in the Durham Cricket League table.
At Bunker Hill, Philadelphia scored 241 for 6 with young Matty Franklin impressing in his six overs, taking 2 for 30.
Shildon’s reply never troubled the home side and they were all out for 126. Only Chris Young (32) and Greg Upton (31) batted with any conviction.
There is plenty of cricket for the club over the week ahead starting on Saturday 22nd June when the 1st XI are at home to Crook, with the 2nd team away in the reverse league fixture.
On Sunday 23rd, the 2nd team host Silksworth as the 1st XI travel to the Sunderland club, in the bottom of the table clash.
On Monday night (24th) the Under 15s visit Langley Park and on Wednesday (26th) the Under 13s host Etherley.
The club is still recruiting players to strengthen the squads at both senior and junior level.
“Come down to the ground and join in a junior practice session held at 6pm on Fridays or seniors on Thursdays, said a club spokesman. “We’d be delighted to see you, no matter what your standard”.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
