Alton ladies struggle against Cove

In a weekend with lots of rain and drying wickets once again the toss was huge. Unsurprisingly the visitors invited the Brewers to bat first on a very green wicket. Initially the Alton opening pair did well with Georgia and Gemma H playing some shots; but once Georgia was out, bowled by Naomi, a procession of wickets followed. Only Julia from the top order put on any sort of show. Skipper Nic Gadsby (16) joined Julia (22) with the score on 35 and put in a gritty performance, batting through the remainder of the innings. Unfortunately none of the younger ball strikers were able to get going and when Molly was bowled by a full toss it was down to Dr Catherine and Nic to eek out as many as they could. With a cross wind and a helpful wicket the Alton total of 107 was considered defendable. That was until Natasha and Naomi started their assault on the Alton bowling. The experienced pair punished anything full or short, making the unpredictable pitch look more like a road! Alton’s bowling for once failed them and this was further emphasised by missed chances in the field. Sarah M removed Natasha LBW, but that was the only success Alton would see in the field. A disappointing day for the Brewers but some positives to be taken from the lower order batting, and some celebration should be had in recognition of the run of 7 consecutive victories stretching back to last season. Onto a huge game against St Cross next week after the Kia Smash on Saturday!