Haverfordwest win Harrison Allen crown

With the cricket season drawing to a close, clubs across Wales continue to battle it out for honours, WRITES CARL FIELD.

Among those celebrating this weekend were Haverfordwest, who defeated hosts Cresselly to win the Harrison Alllen Bowl – the showpiece event on the Pembrokeshire cricket calender.

There were notable contributions from Dai Davies, who hit two half centuries, Danny Potter (77), along with Simon Holliday, who scored 65 as well as collecting a five-for with the ball, as Haverfordwest beat Cresselly by 128 runs.

The match was contested over two innings of 22 overs a side, with Haverfordwest – batting first –  posting 196-7 and 201-6 while Cresselly – who had home advantage – only mustering 158-8 and 111 all out. Iwan Izzard did manage to hit a half century for the hosts.

Also celebrating are Ammanford, who have been crowned South Wales Cricket Association Division One champions – therefore securing an immediate return to Premier League cricket after relegation last season.

They won by six wickets at Gowerton with Matthew Roberts (7-44) ripping through the hosts batting line-up, while opener Alun Evans (64) smashed 11 fours and two sixes to help inspire Ammanford to a six-wicket win.

In Division Four, Llantwit Major Cavaliers ensured they will be playing Division Three cricket next season with a six-wicket win at Neath thirds.

If your club has a story or pictures it would like to appear on the blog, drop an email to allwalessport@live.co.uk

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Weekend cricket preview

The penultimate weekend of the South Wales Cricket Association Division One season sees leaders Ammanford away to Gowerton, WRITES LISA STENSTROM.

Ammanford remain undefeated this season while Gowerton’s victory over Dafen last week should give them heart.

But, against the formidable bowling of the two Matthews – Fisher and Roberts, who have taken nearly 100 wickets between them plus the leagues’ leading batsman, Alun Evans, the odds of them turning over the champions-elect must remain slim.

Up north - in the Romida Premier Division, Menai Bridge will travel to strugglers Mold and are surely favourites to continue their relentless march towards the title and prising – finally - the Championship from Llandudno’s vice like grip.  

The Seasiders themselves will hope to ‘do the double’ over their opponents when they travel to an in-form Mochdre who, after a slow start to the season, have bounded up the table over the last few weeks and currently sit in second place, they remain the only team to lower Menai Bridge’s colours this season.

Out west - the Pembrokeshire Leagues final round of matches are put on to the back burner this weekend as the Harrison Allen Bowl Final takes centre stage.  

The final, to be played over two innings will be staged at Cresselly and brings together the First Division’s second and third placed teams – Haverfordwest verses host team Cresselly.

This could be a tight one to call as their league encounters suggest - Cresselly gaining the bragging rights in their first meeting of the season whilst their second engagement ended in a draw.

Something tells me Haverfordwest will come out on top.

All the above is, of course, subject to the Welsh weather behaving itself!

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ROMIDA NORTH WALES CRICKET LEAGUE – HOT AT THE TOP

The Premier League’s outstanding fixture this weekend is undoubtedly the top of the table clash between league leaders Menai Bridge and 8 times champions Llandudno.

Menai Bridge have built on their performance of last season – finishing runners-up to the imperious Llandudno team - and are posting a determined  challenge for The Seasiders’ crown.   They remain undefeated this season, putting together some impressive performances and winning games with wickets to spare.

A welcome addition to the Menai Bridge club has been the signing of overseas recruit – 23 year old Australian all-rounder Kaine Harmsworth .  Harmsworth has represented New South Wales at Under 17 and 19 level and played first grade cricket for Sydney-based Western Suburbs CC, a former club of Australian captain Michael Clarke.  A mountain of a man, Harmsworth is averaging just shy of 80 runs per innings and his economic medium-fast seam bowling has been responsible for 17 wickets thus far.

Harmsworth - a Cricket Australia Level One Coach – has certainly made an impact at the club – Team captain, Robbie James said, ‘Kaine has proved a real asset both on and off the field, he brings with him an air of professionalism’.

The Bridge will no doubt face their sternest challenge of the season in Llandudno who will be looking to bridge the points gap between themselves and the Menai boys. 

The Seasiders (their early-season hiccup against St Asaph now a distant memory) are themselves in top form and have a wealth of talent at their disposal.  The ever-reliable Jordan Kane is once again excelling with the willow and has already reached a half century on 4 occasions this season averaging a touch under 60 runs per innings.  Jack Rimmington’s bowling continues to impress -  his career-best 6-14 against Llanwrst including a hat-trick - being one of the highlights of the season so far.  At this rate of knots Rimmington looks well on his way to surpassing his season best total of 61 wickets.

Both teams will be playing their strongest teams and are looking forward to a competitive match.  So the stage is set for a humdinger of a game.

Let’s hope the weather is kind to make the most of Llandudno’s excellent pitch.

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South West Wales Cricket: Weekend Review

After a mixed start to the season weather wise the longest day of the year saw cricketers drenched in glorious sunshine up and down the country.

In the Thomas Carroll South Wales Cricket Association, Ammanford continue to rule the roost. With the second and third placed teams drawing, the pacemakers capitalised to move 28 points clear at the top after they clinically dispatched Gowerton by nine wickets.

Gowerton won the toss and elected to bat but that was as good as it got for the Swansea outfit, as they were skittled for 148 on a good wicket. Matthew Roberts was the destroyer in chief as he tore apart the Gowerton order, bagging six wickets.

Ammanford quickly chased down the runs required in the 19th over as they carded 149-1. Player/Coach Alun Evans smashed an unbeaten 77 while Rhys Culley also knocked an undefeated half century 52.

Meanwhile, Maesteg Celtic’s good start to the season continued as they inflicted Skewen’s fourth loss with a 61 run victory.

Elsewhere, Clydach eased to a seven wicket triumph at Aberdare while Dafen thumped Ynystawe by nine wickets.

At the top of Division Two, Briton Ferry Steel are the new leaders after they recorded a thumping 163 run triumph over Llanelli, while rivals Cowbridge could only draw at Bronwydd.

It remains tight at the top of Division Three with only a single point separating leaders Cimla and second place Drefach after they both notched up wins over Baglan and Merthyr Tydfil respectively.

Finally, in Division Four pacemakers Felinfoel cruised to an eight wicket win over hosts Dyffryn.

Dyffryn were skittled for just 77 with Jonathan Evans taking four wickets and Anthony Mathias bagging 3-30 for Foel. The visitors easily chased down the runs required with Rhys Harris top scoring on 42.

Moving west, in the Nicholas Insurance Pembrokeshire County League defending champions Neyland tightened their grip at the summit of Division One as they saw off title rivals Haverfordwest with a nail biting one wicket victory.

Haverfordwest were put in and posted 169-9 off their allotted 45 overs, Simon Holiday top scored on 67 in a 43 over stint while AJ Ravu (33) and Danny Potter (17) both contributed useful knocks. Leg Spinner Andrew Miller was the most lethal in attack for the hosts taking 4-32 while Nathan Banner picked up 3-42.

In response Neyland looked like they were heading towards their second defeat of the season when they found themselves 111-9 in the 32nd over but a superb last wicket stand between Banner (42n/o) and Sean Hannon (15n/o) saw the leaders home to their sixth win of the season.

The result sees Neyland move 33 points clear at the summit with Cresselly their nearest challengers after they comfortably saw off Saundersfoot by six wickets.

At the top of Division Two leaders Johnston continue to dominate as they claimed their sixth win of the season thumping Hook by 101 runs.

Aberystwyth maintained their unbeaten start to the West Wales Conference as the pacemakers thrashed Talybont Rachels by 170 runs. 

The highfliers elected to bat and carded 256-8, Adam Carvell (63) and Robert Rudge (54n/o) were the top scorers.

The Rachels in response were skittled for just 86 with Graham Bird the most potent in attack, taking 3-20. 

Elsewhere, Aberaeron recorded a five wicket victory over Talybont Villagers and UWA Commoners saw off Tregaron by 100 runs.

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Welsh cricket round-up

North Wales cricket

Llandudno were knocked off their perch atop the North Wales Cricket Premier Division after they fell to defeat at the hands of Mochdre.

Chasing their sixth title in seven seasons, they were put in to bat and despite a brilliant 75 by Jordan Kane and David Midgeley’s 37 they were unceremoniously dismissed for 178. Puni Hira was the star bowler, claiming half their wickets for just 34 runs off his 12 overs.

Mochdre reached 184 for the loss of just three wickets thanks in large to Adam Campion’s unbeaten 70 and Alex Davies’ 45 to seal the win.

Pontblyddyn were the beneficiaries as they climbed above Llandudno thanks to a six-wicket triumph at home to Hawarden Park.

The visitors were put in but were all out for just 76 in the 27^th over. Ian Dixon top scored with 25 as James birch (3-13) and Glenn Chambers (3-10) tore through their order.

Pont reached their target with just four wickets dropped with Chambers again doing well with an unbeaten 33 and Ryan Stanbury contributing 28.

Elsewhere, struggling Connah’s Quay surprised Mold to triumph by 159 runs. The Quay made 271-5 off their 50 overs with Dave Fox hitting a remarkable 110, Darren Jones adding 59 and Martin Burger passing his half century with 56.

Mold were then out for the unlucky score of 111 in 30 overs with Adam Hodges skittling five wickets for 40 runs.

In the First Division, leaders Llay Welfare compounded a miserable weekend for Llandudno by hammering their second string by six wickets.

Llandudno were put in to bat and reached 199-7 with Matthew Lambe knocking 71, but the Welfare surpassed that while losing just four wickets with a phenomenal unbeaten 109 from Damian Brian helping them to victory.

South Wales Premier League

Sully Centurions were also dethroned as Premier League leaders after they were defeated on the Duckworth-Lewis method by closest challengers Mumbles, who replaced them at the top.

Sully put Mumbles in first, but they reached an impressive 251-8 in their 50 overs with ex-Glamorgan player Aneurin Norman reaching a fantastic 123, posting a first wicket stand of 104 with Rhodri Evans (32). Ieuan Rosser added 40 to the total, with Alex Griffiths contributing an unbeaten 38.

The rain meant Sully had to chase 214 off 39 overs on the Duckworth-Lewis method, but fell on 196 despite Gareth Davies knocking a commendable 59.

Elsewhere, Pontarddulais condemned Newport to an eight-wicket defeat. Putting Newport in, the Gwent side reached 112 off 38 overs thanks to dogged bowling by Bont, Garry Arrowsmith taking 4-12, Jon Denning 3-20 and Owen Morgan two for just 13 runs.

Dion Holden (47) and Arwel Thomas (28) then saw Pontarddulais to a winning 116-2 off just 31 overs to bring the match to a close.

West Wales Conference

UWA Commoners are sitting pretty atop the division thanks to a six-wicket thrashing of Aberaeron yesterday.

They put their victims in to bat and had them out for 79, after a bottom of the order collapse from 71-6. David Grinzpan did his best with 33, but the Commoners’ bowling attack was in fine fettle and spinner Kevin Williams posted 4-23 in just eight overs, Ian Lawton returned 2-16 and Paul Abraham 1-12.

They then passed their target with four wickets gone, Neil Stent top scoring with 22. Grinzpan claimed two wickets for 34 runs and Paul Hughes saw five maidens in nine overs which didn’t see him take a wicket but he only conceded six runs. But it wasn’t enough to stop UWA soaring to victory.

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Pembrokeshire Saturday cricket round-up

A sensational sixth wicket stand by Patrick Hammon and Andrew Miller saw leaders Neyland to a 19-run victory over Lawrenny in an entertaining encounter in the Nicholas Insurance Pembroke County Cricket League.

Neyland were troubled on 54-5 when Hammon stepped to the fore and knocked 61 and Miller an unbeaten 45 to give them 172-6 off their 45 overs. Robert Williams (3-27) and Stephen Lewis (2-42) had earlier troubled them in Lawrenny’s bowling attack.

In reply, Lawrenny fell for 153 in the final over, with Brad McCleod-Jenkins smashing an impressive 84. Nathan Banner was the tormentor in chief for Neyland, taking half the visitors’ wickets for just 37 runs. Anton John also chipped in to take 2-23, including the all-important final wicket.

There was a nail-biting climax at Cresselly that saw the hosts surpass Narberth’s target with eight balls to spare in a high-scoring thriller.

The visitors were put in to bat and Mark Hughes’ magnificent unbeaten 135, including 10 fours and seven sixes, coupled with Ben Quartermaine’s 60 not out seemed to have done enough when Narberth reached 223-4 off their 45 overs.

Yet Matthew Morgan had other ideas. His unbeaten 112 was the highlight as Cresselly made 226-4 in the 44th over to triumph by six wickets. It looked at one stage like they wouldn’t make it due to the extremely economical bowling of Ian Hughes. Though he didn’t take a wicket, the first six of his 12 overs ended in maidens, with just 20 runs conceded in the remaining six.

Elsewhere, Haverfordwest climbed above Whitland and St Ishmaels in to second with a four-wicket victory at the first of those clubs. The hosts were put in but could only manage 163, with Haverfordwest passing their total in the 41st over as they made 167-6.

St Ishmaels dropped to third after basement club Llanrhian shocked them to triumph by six wickets, thanks in large to Geraint Morris’ unbeaten 41. With St Ishmaels all out for 118, Morris helped them surpass their target in the 35th over for the loss of just four wickets.

Defending champions Carew earned a winning draw at home to Llangwm, with Brian Hall knocking an unbeaten 50 for the hosts.

Division 2 leaders Saundersfoot continued their title challenge in an attempt to get back into the top flight at the first time of asking with a 159-run thrashing of Whitland II.

Paul Mansbridge was the hero as he smashed 93 in an opening partnership of 151 with Dai Davies, who knocked 43 as Saundersfoot made 229-9 off their 45 overs.

Whitland were skittled out for 70 in reply, Davies taking 3-20, Danny Caine 4-26 and Nick Cope dismissing two batsmen for just two runs in two overs to finish them off.

Elsewhere, Haverfordwest II thrashed hapless Carew II, skittling them all out for 45. James Morris took six wickets for just 16 runs, with Avron Roulstone taking 4-28. They then made 47-1 with Adam Raymond top scoring with an unbeaten 19.

The top two in Division 3 also posted impressive wins. Hook (61-2) annihilated Crymych (59) by eight wickets, while Camrose & Spittal (109) made Llechryd (111-5) work slightly harder for their five-wicket victory.

In Division 5, there was another nervous finish as Herbrandston II won at Pembroke II by a single run. Ashley Britton helped them to triumph, hitting 20 as they made 92, before taking 3-22 as Pembroke II fell for 91 in the closest of finales.

Finally in Division 6, Llechryd II thrashed Lamphey II by 257 runs. Mark Newell earned a few drinks in the pavilion afterwards with a phenomenal unbeaten 200 as his side declared for 331-5. He then picked up the ball and took 3-9 as Lamphey II were skittled out for 74.

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Neath continue title assault in Thomas Carroll South Wales Association cricket

Neath hammered struggling Maesteg Celtic by 115 runs to continue their dominant start to the season in SWCA Division One.

In a fixture affected by the inclement weather, the league leaders were put into bat and reached 255-5 with Adrian Shaw amassing 99 and Keiron Thomas hitting 96 before being run out. Lee Hicks was the best bowler with figures of 2-50.

Celtic were dismissed for 140 in the 40th over despite Tom Morgan knocking 60 off just 64 balls. Kieron Bull took 5-46 off 15 overs and Matthew Pearce 3-27.

Carmarthen Wanderers continued their impressive return to the top flight to keep the heat on Neath with a more than comfortable six-wicket beating of basement club Llangennech.

The weather struck there too, with the match reduced to 37 overs. Llangennech reached 130-9 in their allotted overs with Gethin Long’s 38 and Atif Hameed’s 37 the best totals. Andrew Edwards bowled well for 3-18 off eight overs, with Owain Binding taking 3-21.

The Wanderers reached their total for the loss of just four wickets to collect 25 points. A 50-run stand for the first wicket by Daniel Jones (34) and Giles Thomas (23) set them on their way before Owain Davies added 23 and Gareth Grant an unbeaten 23 to see them win for the sixth time in eight matches.

Ynystawe overtook Tata Steel when they overcame them by two wickets. Batting first, Tata were bowled out for a mediocre 108 with Owen Davies reaching 31 and Nathan Ferrell adding 16. Andrew Beasley took 5-25 in 10.3 overs.

The Swansea Valley side lost eight wickets on their way to victory, Tom Blake scoring 23 and Rowan Evans 18.

Elsewhere, Gowerton soared to their second win of the season when they overcame Cowbridge by 95 runs.

Electing to bat, they scored 200-5 in their 50 overs with Paul Rees hitting a brilliant 101 and Rhys Thomas knocking a solid 27. Only Tom Merilaht did any real damage with the ball for the Vale of Glamorgan side as he took 2-49.

Cowbridge were never close to their target, dismissed for just 105 in the 40th over. Sam Wood top-scored with 31 for them, as hot Gowerton prospect Will Jenkins, just 15, did most of the damage by taking 6-23 in 10 overs, two of which were maidens.

Clydach secured a winning draw with Dafen in a match between two teams in the lower half of the table.

The second division saw the Aberdare-Llandysul fixture abandoned with the visitors on 102-4 after it had been reduced to 30 overs each, while Pontardawe-Gorseinon never got going.

The three fixtures that did play were draws, with Skewen (193-9) extending their lead over Aberdare at the top with a winning draw at lowly Swansea Civil Service (97-6).

Division Three also saw two games fall foul of the conditions. Yet the weather was unable to halt Porthcawl, as the early season pacesetters made it seven wins from eight with a three-wicket victory at Margam.

The hosts were put in to bat and made a respectable 148-9 off their 50 overs, with Luke O’Connor’s 46 a big contribution and Elwyn Pugh and John Wellington both contributing 24. Nick Lyddon took 2-32 for the league leaders, with Tom Davies collecting 3-33.

It took Porthcawl until the 49th over to surpass Margam’s total with 149-7, as Lyddon matched O’Connor with a 46 of his own and Steve Doherty added 34. Margam’s Pugh had done his best to dent the batting order, taking 4-59, but it was not enough.

Three of the four Division Four fixtures were played, including leaders Pwll hammering Felinfoel by eight wickets.

Tom Jones knocked 59 as visitors Felinfoel were put in and reached 143-9, with Rhodri Lewis taking 3-31 and Craig Howells 2-24 off seven overs.

Pwll hit their target with the loss of just two wickets. Howells again starred with a 67, including 11 fours, with Dean Thomas adding 38.

The Llantwit Major Cavaliers climbed above Baglan in to second to keep up the heat on Pwll with a four wicket victory over their victims.

They elected to bowl after winning the toss and it proved the correct decision as Baglan were skittled for 95. Their bowling attack was in imperious form. James Snelson took 4-36 in eight overs, with Adrian Ashton taking 2-19 in 11 and Gareth Hughes 2-3 from five. Ben Jenkins finished Baglan off by felling 2-17 in his eight overs.

In reply they passed the total in the 34th over, with little of note in the batting figures other than a 15 for Sam Pickford.

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Penarth trounce Malpas to ensure Gwalia Cup progression

Penarth destroyed Malpas in a 10-wicket thrashing that saw them romp in to round four of the Gwalia Cup.

Malpas won the toss and elected to bat but they were quickly skittled out for 49 in the 23^rd over, with only David Martin (15) reaching double figures. They won’t want to face Mark Thomas again after the Penarth bowler felled four wickets in four overs at a concession of just 10 runs. Tom Sidford also took 2-9.

In reply, it took Penarth just 8.5 overs to surpass their target without the loss of a wicket, Jonathan Davies hitting an unbeaten 30 and Rhys Morgan contributing 14 not out.

They now face Barry who overcame Newport in their third round fixture.

A magnificent 108 off just 113 balls from Akhtar Balouch helped Panteg to a 172-run victory over Chepstow to progress. They made 311-4 off their 40 overs, while Chepstow could only make 139-7 in reply, with Panteg’s Christopher Mee capturing two of their wickets for 14 runs.

They will play Usk in the next round, after Newbridge conceded their fixture due to being unable to raise a side.

Cardiff posted a victory over Aberdare by nine-wickets. Aberdare elected to bat and made 168-7 in their 40 overs with Geoffrey Derrick falling just short of his half century on 48. Dale Boorman finished as Cardiff’s top bowler, taking four wickets for 24 runs in his eight overs.

Cardiff surpassed their score after 30 overs with the loss of just a single wicket – Ruaidhri Smith (79no) and Greg Holmes (81no) doing most of the work.

They will play Port Talbot Town, who defeated Pontypridd by 86 runs thanks largely to Anthony Thomas’ magnificent 116 off just 95 balls including 21 fours. Their 262-6 was too high for Ponty, who were out for 176 after 36 overs.

Ynysygerwn beat Ynystawe by five wickets to make the next round with Matthew Hobden starring for the winners with an unbeaten 94. They will face Blackwood, who picked up a seven-wicket victory over Gowerton.

Dafen Welfare edged a tight fixture with Mumbles to progress by a single wicket. Mumbles won the toss and decided to bat, Ben Francis’ 52 helping them to 139 all out in the 38^th over, as Aamir Ikram skittled three of their batsmen for just 14 runs in 7.3 overs.

Dafen made 142-9 in reply, Nicky Davies’ 44 a highlight as they stumbled home despite Mumbles’ Luke Brown doing his best to stop them by taking four wickets for 27 runs.

Swansea will face them after defeating Skewen by nine wickets, while Ammanford and Carew will also meet after ending the runs of Pontarddulais by 34 runs and Aberystwyth by six wickets respectively.

Hawarden Park thrashed Buckley by nine wickets. Putting Buckley in, they had them out for 193, with only really Phil Bradfield (55) and Jordan Baxter (25) standing up to their bowling attack.

Hawarden only needed 34 overs to surpass the target with Michael Parton unbeaten on 67, Craig Wilson knocking an unbeaten 65 and Tom Ducker’s 48 bringing the win.

They will play Northop next for who Darren Williams (95) starred as they held off Lley Welfare to triumph by 38 runs despite the Welfare’s John Lloyd breaking a century with an unbeaten 107.

North Wales champions Llandudno will meet Denbigh after they overcame Prestatyn by 60 runs and the latter put Abergele to the sword by five wickets.

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Welsh cricket round-up

South Wales Premier League

Sully Centurions cemented their place at the top of the table after getting the better of a drawn fixture with Swansea.

Michael O’Shea and Terryn Frey hit a league best opening stand of 249 to get the Centurions off to a flyer, with O’Shea knocking 136 and Frey an unbeaten 121 that saw him surpass 100 runs for the first time. They ended up with 297-5 off their 50 overs, with Dwayne Batchelor the pick of the Swansea bowlers as he took two wickets for 26 runs.

In response, Swansea reached 197-5 with Ashley Pass desperately close to a half century, falling on 48. Sully’s Jamie Sylvester made a nuisance of himself with the ball and took 2-29.

Third-placed Ynysygerwn were able to narrow the gap on Mumbles in second with an impressive six-wicket victory.

Ynys won the toss and chose to field, but Aneurin Donald looked to have made them regret that decision with an astonishing 119 off just 121 balls, while Darren Thomas struck an unbeaten 34 as Mumbles made 270-7.

In response, Gareth Rees reached 93 and Alex McCormack 77 as they passed their target for the loss of four wickets in the 49^th over.

Elsewhere, Newport (238-5) beat Ammanford (236-7) by five wickets, while Port Talbot (195-4) triumphed by six wickets over Bridgend Town (194-8).

North Wales League

Llandudno passed the 200 points mark at the top of the ECB Premier Division after thrashing Connah’s Quay by nine wickets.

Quay were put in to bat and declared on 176-9 with Dave Fox’s 94 pushing him close to a century. Gordon Kerr was the main menace for Llandudno, taking five of Connah’s Quay’s wickets for 25 runs.

Replying, the defending champions flew past their target with the loss of a sole wicket, as Aled Williams smashed 81 and Jordan Kane almost matched it with 76.

Menai Bridge kept up the chase as they posted a 49-run triumph over Llanrwst.

They elected to bat but were dismissed for 167 with Luke Jones smacking 41 and Danny Creek 34. Llanrwst’s top bowler was Simon Williams, who took 3-41.

But they were unable to replicate that effort with the bat and were skittled out for 118 in the 38^th over. Williams top scored with 36 in a personally fruitful day on the field, but Menai Bridge were lethal with the ball and Ashley Wood was particularly dominant, taking 6-28 and Carl Thomas taking another three for just 16 runs.

Elsewhere, lowly Brymbo steamrollered to a 10-wicket win over Mold, while Hawarden Park (178-7) saw off Northop (177-9) by three wickets.

West Wales Cricket Conference

Aberaeron climbed the table with a six-wicket beating of Aberystwyth Seconds.

Aberystwyth elected to bat after winning the toss and managed 149-9 off their 40 overs, with Dave Dowell the top batsman with 42. Sion Lewis took 3-41 off just eight overs for Aberaeron, while Nathan Bennett and Steffan Lewis both felled two wickets for 25 runs.

Chris Grange walloped an unbeaten 93 in reply, including four sixes and 11 fours, as Aberaeron knocked off the runs while losing just four wickets.

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Neyland continue charge in Pembrokeshire cricket

Pembroke County Cricket League leaders Neyland continued their unbeaten start to the season with a three-wicket triumph at defending champions Carew.

The hosts were put in and Timmy Hicks top scored with 64 as they managed 225-9 off their 45 overs.

Neyland then took to the crease and made 228-6 in the 43rd over. Patrick Bellerby knocked 63 and Andrew Miller (51) and Ashley Sutton (50) both made half centuries to compound Carew to their seventh consecutive defeat.

Whitland climbed above Haverfordwest in to second place after they were victorious by 109 runs at home to Llanrhian and Haverfordwest slipped to a home defeat against Cresselly.

Steffan James starred with both bat and ball for Whitland as the visitors, rooted to the bottom of the table, couldn’t get to their opponents’ target of 290-4.

Whitland were put in to bat and James passed his century with a sensational 105 including 13 fours and two sixes. Paul Davies gave him great support with a 61, while Ed John smashed 52 and Dylan Blain 47.

Llanrhian’s reply drew to a close in the 40th over when they were bowled out for 181. Ben Jones managed 56 and Nigel Delaney 34, but David Dumphey took 3-21, while Mark Lee returned 2-28 and James again haunted Llanrhian by ending the innings of two batsmen for 25 runs.

Haverfordwest dropped below them after being shocked by Cresselly, who recorded their first win of the season by eight wickets.

The hosts were put in but failed to impress as Adam Raymond’s 28 was the only knock of note as they were all out for 121. Cresselly’s Ryan Lewis took three wickets for just 24 runs, while Steffan Jenkins took 3-28 and Bobby Webb 3-25 as the visiting bowlers shone.

Cresselly then surpassed their target in 35 overs. Matthew Morgan’s 55 and Phillip Williams’ 36 saw them to 122-2 to finally give them a victory to celebrate.

Meanwhile, Llangwm also recorded their first victory of the season beating St Ishmaels by 48 runs, while Narberth held off a spirited Lawrenny to emerge as winners by a 62-run margin.

Division 2 Leaders Saundersfoot triumphed by seven wickets at Lamphey. The hosts made 162-8 off their 45 overs but Saundersfoot hit their target with 166-3 with 10 overs to spare. Danny Caine starred with both bat (45 not out) and ball (4-56) for the early season pace setters.

Pembroke climbed in to second with a five-wicket win over Burton. The visitors were all out for 187 despite Robbie Neal surpassing his half century with 53. In reply, James Skeels hit an unbeaten 46 and Ceri Brace also withstood the bowlers for 41 as Pembroke surpassed the total and made 190 with the loss of just five wickets.

Haverfordwest’s second string also failed to win as they were held to a draw at Johnston to see them drop below Pembroke in to third.

Neither side could bowl the others’ batting order out, with the hosts making 201-9 and Haverfordwest II reaching 183-7.

Llechryd secured a comprehensive nine-wicket victory at home to Narberth II in Division 3 to climb above them in to second in the table. The visitors made 126-9 batting first, but a Steve Smith century saw Llechryd hit their target of 127 with the loss of just one wicket.

Division 4 leaders Neyland II could only draw at home to Cresselly III. Lyn Rees starred for the hosts by knocking 77 with the bat and taking two wickets for just six runs, while Scott Jones also hit an unbeaten 86 as they reached 230-4.

But Cresselly III had an in-form Steve Wilkins hitting 46 to help them to 151-7, with Alex Codd (2-29) also impressing with the ball for Neyland II.

Finally, Hundleton continued their charge at the top of Division 5 with an eight-wicket triumph over Pembroke II.

Pembroke II batted first and hit 131-8 thanks in part to 33s from both Don Patel and Jack Harries, with Craig Williams taking two of their wickets for just 20 runs.

But Hundleton strode past the target while losing just two wickets. Luke Williams struck 79, with Craig Williams also reaching 34.

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Neath, Ynystawe and Carmarthen primed as title contenders in South Wales Cricket Association

Neath, Ynystawe and Carmarthen Wanderers have emerged as potential title challengers in Division One after all three picked up victories yesterday.

Neath took the spoils in a thrilling top of the table clash with Tata Steel, emerging as victors by two wickets in a result that sees Tata drop to fifth in the table.

The Steelmen elected to bat but were all out for just 108 in the 41st over, with Neath pair Nathan Aubrey (3-10) and Keiran Bull (3-22) tearing their batting order apart. Owen Davies’ 23 was the only score of real note for Tata.

In reply, the Gnoll outfit made steady progress. Adrian Shaw knocked 34 and the on-form Bull returned to hit 22 to see the leaders home to a fifth win of the season, as they posted 109-8. Steel bowlers Michael and David Jones did their best to disrupt Neath’s order, with the former claiming 2-34 and the latter 3-45, but it wasn’t enough to stop them surpassing their target.

Carmarthen Wanderers continue to more than hold their own on their return to the top flight as they notched up a five-wicket triumph at Dafen.

The hosts posted a decent total of 183-5 in their allotted overs, with Nicky Davies smashing an unbeaten 96. However, the Wanderers chased down the runs in the 43rd over with Gareth Grant smashing an unbeaten 93 in an innings that included 11 fours and three sixes. Opener Daniel Jones also cruised past his half century to reach 59.

Meanwhile, Ynystawe eased to a 104-run victory at Llangennech. They took to the crease first and made 180-5 off 50 overs, Gareth Bishop hitting an unbeaten 68 including seven fours and one six. Simon Clement took three of those five wickets for Llangennech for the concession of 35 runs.

Llangennech’s batting order never really got going in their reply. They were skittled out for 76, with Stuart Davies knocking 27 off just 11 balls for the ninth wicket to add some respectability to the total.

Paul Discombe was tormentor in chief, taking five Llangennech wickets for just 28 runs, while Ben Northy claimed another four for 47 to rubber stamp Ynystawe’s authority over the batsmen.

In Division Two, Skewen maintained their unbeaten record with a four-wicket victory at Llanelli. The hosts batted first and were all out for 123, before the leaders chased down 124 for the loss of six wickets.

Fellow title contenders Briton Ferry Steel returned to winning ways as they thrashed Gorseinon by 123 runs and are now just two points adrift of Skewen.

They batted first and set a target of 283-4 as Steven Devonald whacked 96 with the willow, Gavin Pugh contributing another 80 and Paul Evans adding 75.

The Swansea side could only make 160 in their innings as Devonald was once again the star by claiming four wickets. Evans also returned to haunt Gorseinon with a three-wicket haul.

Bronwydd also posted an impressive victory as they won by four wickets at Morriston.

The hosts won the toss and elected to take to the crease. Mark Whittaker made a stand of 82, including 15 fours, while Steve Maddock came close to his half century with an unbeaten 47 as the Swansea-based side reached 236-5. Meirion Davies bowled well for Bronwydd and took two wickets for 26 runs.

The visitors chased their target down in the 50^th over to make 239-6. Opener Byron Jones stood guard throughout and smashed 116 off 144 balls, including one six and nine fours. Lee Rees did his best to halt them, taking 3-27.

In a top versus bottom clash in Division Three, leaders Porthcawl defeated Dyffryn to continue their blistering start to the campaign.

Dyffryn lost the toss and were put in, reaching 141. Ian Jones (44) and John Day (29) did their best to keep the run count ticking over, but Tristan Sonnekus and Tom Davies continually pummelled the batsmen and picked up four wickets apiece.

The Seasiders then easily reached their total in the 24th over for the loss of just two wickets. Mark Dixon knocked 49, with Rob Jones hitting 28 and opener Steve Richmond finishing unbeaten on 34.

Division 4 leaders Pwll decimated Neath II’s batting order in a seven-wicket win. Neath were up first but were decimated for just 90, with Pwll sailing past that total for the loss of just three wickets.

Llandeilo were also impressive as they saw off Felinfoel by seven wickets. Hosts Felinfoel won the toss and elected to bat, with Gareth Smith reaching 48 before falling LBW. They totalled 176-9, with Chris Jenkins accounting for seven of their wickets for 50 runs.

Llandeilo reached their target in the 40^th over thanks in large to a brilliant and unbeaten 104 off just 125 balls from David Gascoyne. Their 177 was at the expense of just three wickets, Dafydd Jones also knocking an impressive 40 on the way to victory.

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Welsh Cricket Clubs Receive Share of £10,000

Eleven cricket clubs across Wales have been chosen to benefit from the SWALEC Cricket Development Fund, which will see each club receive match funding support of up to £10,000.

First introduced in 2011, the £10,000 SWALEC Community Development Fund provides matched funding for grassroots cricket clubs. In association with Cricket Wales and Glamorgan Cricket, it aims to grow one of Wales’ favourite national sports at a local level.

SWALEC has helped 43 clubs invest in everything from waterhogs and cover sheets to sight screens and score boxes.

The clubs receiving funding this year include Dinas Powys, St Fagans, Kidwelly, Llandudno, Pentwyn, Monkswood, Llantwit Fardre, Newtown, Gwersyllt Park, Cresselly and Pontardawe cricket clubs. 

Huw Lock, sponsorship manager at SWALEC, said: “The Community Development Fund is our way of giving something back to local cricket clubs across Wales. These clubs don’t always have access to the needed funds for new equipment and pitch maintenance and so we’re happy that we’re able to help these eleven clubs with this essential funding.”

Matthew Mott, Glamorgan’s Head of Elite Performance, said: “Financial investment into cricket clubs at all levels particularly grassroots, is invaluable and will ultimately help raise the standard of the game in Wales.

“Knowing that clubs have access to funding of this level to improve their club’s facilities is not only promising for the future of these clubs but also for the development of cricket players in Wales and in turn, this will benefit Glamorgan Cricket.”

Peter Hybart from Cricket Wales, said: “Grassroots cricket is at the centre of many communities in Wales and many people get a great deal of pleasure from both playing and watching it. This funding from SWALEC shows dedication to the sport at a local level and will hopefully help to keep it growing and attracting new players and followers”.

For further information on SWALEC’s sponsorship of Glamorgan Cricket and how to get involved visit www.SWALEC.co.uk/cricket.  

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South Wales Cricket Association and Pembroke County Cricket League Saturday round-up

Leaders Neath maintained their winning start to the campaign with a nine wicket victory at Cowbridge in the South Wales Cricket Association Division One.

The Vale of Glamorgan side elected to bat first but were all out for 124; Jack Harris making a notable 45. Neath’s bowling attack was in commanding form with Kieron Bull taking five wickets for just 30 runs.

Neath reached 125 from 42 overs with the loss of just one wicket. Kieron Thomas reached 57 not out, while Gareth Davies also evaded Cowbridge’s bowling attack to contribute 42.

Ynystawe left it late but picked up a morale-boosting victory over Dafen by surpassing their total in the final over.

Having been put in to bat, the Carmarthenshire side were all out for 147 in 49.4 overs, with Dafydd Nicholas and Jamie Mansell both notching 26. Karl Roberts and Andrew Beasley bowled well for the visitors, taking 3-40 and 3-37 respectively.

Roberts then starred with the bat and helped his side with an unbeaten 47. Rowan Evans pitched in with a competent 35 to push them to 151-9 off 49.5 overs. Andrew Rowlands was Dafen’s top bowler, chipping in to take two wickets for 26.

Elsewhere, Clydach overcame Maesteg Celtic by two wickets, with Tata Steel holding off Llangennech to win their battle by 47 runs, and Carmarthen Wanderers earning a winning draw against Gowerton.

In Division Two, Llandysul kept up their good start with a six wicket victory at Llanelli. Batting first, the hosts reached 228-6 with Adam Coates making 60 and Sam Weeds smashing 54 off just 24 balls.

The visitors reached their total of 230 with the loss of just four wickets in the last over, with Ben Edkins’ 83 not out their biggest contribution.

Swansea Civil Service and Aberdare fought out an entertaining draw. The Cynon Valley side batted first and reached 222-7, with captain and former Glamorgan coach John Derrick knocking 86, Luke Garthwaite reaching 34 and Steve Manning contributing 31.

Keith Prydderch led the Civil Service bowling attack by taking 2 wickets for 27 runs, with John Wright returning figures of 2-37.

In reply, they reached 154-6, with Nick Davies top scoring with 37 and Scott Thomas reaching 29 not out. Aberdare’s Sam Lincoln was lethal with the ball in hand to take three wickets for just 12 runs.

Elsewhere, leaders Briton Ferry Steel kept up their unbeaten start with an eight wicket win at Pontardawe, while Gorseinon won at Morriston by 20 runs and Skewen also posted an eight wicket victory over Bronwydd.

In Division Three, Porthcawl went to the top of the table with a convincing 74-run success at Drefach. Steve Richmond hit 59 for the Seasiders as they reached 178-8. Drefach were then skittled out for 104, with Tristan Sonnekus taking three wickets for just 14 runs.

Porthcawl replaced Maesteg at the summit after the Llynfi Valley outfit went down by five wickets at home to Landore.

With Division Four leaders Pwll being held to a draw by Llandeilo, Baglan cut the gap from 24 points to just two by overwhelming Kidwelly by nine wickets. Adam Wassell posted impressive bowling figures of 5-36.

In Pembrokeshire, Neyland closed the gap on County Cricket Division 1 leaders Haverfordwest with an impressive nine wicket victory at Whitland.

The hosts were skittled out for 96, with Nathan Banner taking half their wickets for just 19 runs. The visitors surpassed that with the loss of just one wicket; Paul Murray knocking 42 not out, with Ashley Sutton hitting an unbeaten 35.

Haverfordwest are now just six points clear after being held to a draw by Carew. Danny Potter was their most successful batsman with a haul of 57, while Adam James contributed 35. Carew’s Robert Scourfield took two of their wickets cheaply for just a single run.

When they took to the crease, Carew’s Rhys Davies hit 29 not out with the bat, with Tom Davies adding a useful 32. Clive Tucker did what he could to damage Carew’s innings with three wickets for just 16 runs.

Elsewhere, third-placed Narberth were held to a draw by bottom side Llanrhian despite posting an impressive 235-3 in their innings. Richie Adams repelled the Llanrhian attack with an unbeaten 109, with Gareth Davies claiming two of the three wickets for 32 runs. Ben Jones hit 82 of Llanrhian’s total.

Cresselly moved clear of Llanrhian with a draw at Llangwm, while St Ishmaels handed out a five wicket beating to Lawrenny.

In Division Two, Pembroke kept up the chase on leaders Saundersfoot with an emphatic 10-wicket victory over Lamphey. Ceri Brace took three Lamphey wickets for just 17 runs as they were all out for 65, then he took up the bat to hit 40 not out, with Paul White adding an unbeaten 26 to win it.

Saundersfoot did their bit, beating Johnston by five wickets, with Phil Jones’ 31 their biggest contribution. Johnston had been bowled out for 127 batting first, with Simon Wood taking three of the wickets for just 17 runs.

Hook defeated Pembroke Dock by 113 runs to remain 35 points clear at the top of Division Three, Jamie Phelps falling just short of his century with 95.

Second-placed Narberth II triumphed by 145 runs at Saundersfoot II having bowled out their hosts for 120. Sean Coker was their main threat, taking half the wickets for just 38 runs. Joel Davies had previously hit an impressive 68 as they finished their innings on 265-5.

Neyland II climbed above Haverfordwest III to the top of Division Four thanks to a five wicket triumph over the deposed leaders.

Alex Codd hit the Haverfordwest bowlers for 76, while Scott Jones added 60 runs to the scoreboard. Jon Tooze was Haverfordwest’s top batsman with 68.

Having started in third, Neyland II also climbed above Burton who lost at home to bottom club Fishguard by six wickets and now find themselves fifth below Kilgetty and Hook II.

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Bridgend Town Cricket Club forced to play away due to state of pitch

Bridgend Town CC are to play all their games in May away from their Newbridge Fields home after the South Wales Premier League declared their pitch unplayable.

The poor winter hampered proposed improvement works following the end of the last season, after complaints had been made to the authorities about the wicket’s state.

Work started on the first-team pitch in September to level it out, with the poor autumn and winter weather meaning that subsequent re-seeding was only successful in places.

After a visit by officials, they have ruled out Bridgend playing any home games during next month, with June in doubt if weather doesn’t improve and the re-conditioning of the pitch can’t continue.

The plight of the second and third teams is also in confusion, with decisions on their fixtures yet to be made.

Chairman Alun T Bunston said their situation served as a warning to other clubs, saying: “I must stress that the problems aren’t the fault of Bridgend Council, which has been supportive.

“In fairness to the league, they too have been very understanding and helped us re-arrange first team matches.

“I know other clubs are suffering through autumn remedial work only being completed in the spring.”

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North Wales Cricket League returns for new season

With the winter sports drawing to a close for another year, the summer sporting season is upon us, and the North Wales Cricket league is ready to explode in to life.

Reigning Premier Division champions Llandudno are ready to defend their crown against all-comers, with Hawarden Park and Llanrwst looking forward to testing themselves at the top table after earning promotion from Division 1 at the back end of last season.

Llandudno have dominated the cricketing scene in recent times and will be hoping to add to the seven Premier Division titles they have won in the past nine seasons.

They begin their campaign away at Pontblyddyn on April 20, who finished mid-table last term, before hosting Northop on April 27 and then travelling to newcomers Hawarden Park on May 4.

Last year’s batting totals were impressive for the club. Darren Midgely picked up the North Wales Chronicle Batting Award for his efforts, which included the region’s fourth and fifth highest scores of the season. These came against Mold (173) and Brymbo (171). They will be hoping their attacking players again step to the fore as they defend the title.

The only other clubs to have won the division since 2004 are Mold and Connah’s Quay, and they will be hopeful of putting together a decent challenge to the dominant force. Mold, in particular, will want a better finish than in 2012, where they only avoided relegation by seven points.

Hawarden Park’s other opening games will see them host fellow newcomers Llanrwst on April 20 before travelling to Menai Bridge on April 27, while Llanrwst’s other early fixtures are at Pontblyddyn on April 27; and at home against Mold on May 4.

In Division One, Bangor and Llay Welfare will be looking to bounce back to the Premier Division following relegation at the end of last season, while Buckley and Bodedern are the newcomers after promotion from Division Two.

With Hawarden Park and Llanrwst comfortably outrunning any of the division’s other teams last time around, a large part of the league will be hoping to be in the mix come the end of the season and stop each other running off with the title.

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