Match report from Gareth Rawlings.
Inspirational and fearless leader Michael 'the legacy' Hodgkins won the toss and elected to bat on an early green seamer. Carlton lost an early wicket but new signing Kian Wade and Carlton stalwart Simon Parker (35) dug in to put on a great partnership and take us to 66 for 2, Simon falling LBW to Methleys left arm spinner who ended up with great figures of 6 for 36. Carlton then had their usual middle order collapse and lost a further 3 wickets for no runs. Up stepped seasoned pro Lee Hurst to steady the ship with some very fine big hitting. Kian finally fell for 44 whilst trying to move the scores on. In came the flamboyant Gareth Rawlinson to suppost Lee, a steady 11 from 12 balls ticked the scores on. Unfortunately 1 big shot too many was attempted. In came Les Goff to again support lee, very solid indefence holding his end up while Lee did the hitting. Lee finally fell for 36 from 41. Les and Heinz did a solid effort of gaining us another batting point getting us to 150. Les being 'mankaded' at one point but being called back by the Methley skipper. 150 was thought of as a decent score at tea but Methley had other idea's. Some strong striking, wayward bowling and early season rustiness in the field made Methleys chase easier than it should have been. Special mentions in the field to Heinz on a great caught and bowled to break the opening partenership and Simon Parker on a great diving catch, the man ages like a fine wine.
Onto to the cup tomorrow, hoping for better fortunes.