27 April 2003 - STAN DOES IT AGAIN
At the ripe old age of 41 many lesser cricketers would be contemplating lazy Saturday afternoons in the garden, or at best maybe a gentle run out in the 3rd XI. But Neston's Stan Clifford is no ordinary cricketer, in fact he is rapidly becoming something of a living legend down at Parkgate. After his magnificent match winning 126 not out at Oulton Park last week Clifford led the way again as Neston's 1st XI made it two wins out of two when they beat Bramhall by 5 wickets on Saturday. This time it was just a mere 76 runs for the maestro before he succumbed and was dismissed for the first time in 2003, but by that time the road to victory had been pretty well mapped out as Neston chased Bramhall's useful 196 for 4 declared.

Earlier in the afternoon the visitors had started the game well with Cheshire Captain, Hall, (45) and opening partner Wilkinson (51) putting on 93 for the first wicket. It was another two of Neston's "wrong side of forty" players who wrestled the game back in Neston's favour as the spin duo of Jones and Collyer applied the brakes on the scoring rate. The two shared 42 overs and picked up a brace of wickets apiece as Bramhall struggled to build on their good start. Only some impressive late hitting from the visiting skipper Bolger (63*) took the score towards respectability before the innings was finally declared closed at 196 off 55 overs.

Neston's reply started well despite the loss of Woolley with the score on 32. The Hackett brothers again shared good partnerships with Clifford taking the score to 96 before Jamie was dismissed for 20, and then onto 140 when Chris departed for 34 off only 30 balls. It was a shock for the large crowd when Clifford's great knock ended when he was bowled only four runs later. When Paul Coles lost his concentration, and his middle stump, in the following over Neston were perhaps having their first wobble of the season at 147 for 5. Fortunately Dave Collyer's side look intent upon not making the same mistakes as last year when collapses from these positions were common place. This time any slight hope the opposition may have had has was soon snuffed out as Steve Egerton (36*) and Max Bass (16*) shared a very composed unbeaten stand of 51 to take their side to victory with almost ten overs to spare [Scoresheet].

After the game hero of the hour Clifford explained why he was only required to perform with the bat "I feel pretty good at the moment, despite a few niggling injuries. Fortunately the skipper DC didn't ask me to bowl today although I was really keen to have a go. I think he's trying to protect me, but I'm fine and if I need to run into the wind for 25 overs next week then so be it".

Ben Thomas' 2nd XI season continued it's stuttering start with another draw, this time at Bramhall. After the home side had posted 205 Neston found themselves in the interesting position of 156 for 5 with 7 overs remaining. It would have been a tough task to win the game but it was a challenge that Thomas' men were willing to take on. Unfortunately the combination of a pitifully slow over rate from the home side and a late downpour brought an unscheduled end to the contest before any late attempt for victory could be mounted. Phil Davis (50) was Neston's top scorer as he continued on his steady comeback trail.

Both the 3rd and 4th XI's also had to settle for draws against Oxton and Upton respectively. Pete Chester won the toss in the 3rd XI game and elected to bat. The skipper made 45 himself and with Alan Reeve scoring 76 Neston were able to declare at 212 for 5 after 48 overs. The match was reduced by 10 overs due to rain which perhaps cost Neston dear as Oxton's last pair batted for 8 overs and eventually hung on for the draw at 174 for 9 (Steve Cook 4 for 31). It wasn't too much of a disaster for the skipper as his side took 17 point from the game.

The 4th XI's game was a less exciting draw with the main highlights being excellent knocks from father and son Brian and Lloyd Murphy.

This Saturday the 1st XI travel to local rivals Chester Boughton Hall and then play host to Nantwich on Sunday in the first round of the Cheshire Cup. The second's meet Chester at Parkgate, the 3rd's travel to Birkenhead Park and the 4ths play at home against Timperely.

27 April 2003 - POLL CLOSED
This seasons "who will win the league" poll has now closed and the results are shown below. It was a close run thing between Neston and Oxton but in the end it was just a case of waiting until the appropriate time (i.e. when Neston edged in front) and closing the voting. Can't be any fairer than that.

Winners of the County League in 2003 will be..		Votes
Alderley Edge	1%	1
Bowdon	5%	4
Bramhall	8%	6
Chester Boughton Hall	3%	2
Didsbury	3%	2
Hyde	5%	4
Macclesfield	6%	5
Nantwich	1%	1
Neston	34%	27
Oulton Park	4%	3
Oxton	29%	23
Urmston	1%	1
79 votes total

27 April 2003 - yourname@nestoncc.co.uk
I've finally got round to registering the domain name "nestoncc.co.uk" so if you ever need to find this site then www.nestoncc.co.uk will now do the trick. It also means that I can now arrange for anyone to have an email address yourname@nestoncc.co.uk. The new address will automatically redirect all mail to your existing one. If you want one then please contact me at dc@nestoncc.co.uk

27 April 2003 - SCORESHEETS & AVERAGES
I have now completed inputting 1st XI scoresheets into my Cricket Statz software. Every league game back to 2000 is in and accurate averages for the past 3 years have been generated. Check the ARCHIVE section for detailed results and stats.

27 April 2003 - MISSING SCOREBOOK
I am trying to locate a scorebook or scorebooks for the 1st XI's 1998 season and first half of the 1999 season. If I can get hold of them I can complete the inputting of all the games since we joined the Cheshire County League. Please let me know if you can help. - DC

27 April 2003 - CHEESE & WINE
There will be a Cheese & Wine afternoon at the club from 1.30pm onwards on Sunday 4 May 2003. The cost of £6.50 includes a glass of wine and an extensive buffet. The 1st XI are in action on the day when they meet Nantwich in the Cheshire Cup. So why not come on down and support both the function and DC's team.

20 April 2003 - STAN GETS TON IN GREAT START TO SEASON
Neston's 1st XI made a spectacular start to the 2003 Murray Smith Cheshire County ECB Premier League yesterday when they beat the much fancied Oulton Park by 7 wickets. With a bitterly cold wind sweeping across the ground Neston skipper Dave Collyer chose to field first at what must be one of the smallest grounds in the country. With pushes and edges flying to the short boundaries for fours and sixes it was never going to be a low scoring affair but the Neston bowlers stuck to their task to keep the run rate under some control. New Aussie import Brett Bevan marked his debut with a mammoth 22 over spell picking up the early wicket of Whittaker and the crucial run out of Leech who had batted well to reach 63. The evergreen Stan Clifford was as economical as ever before being forced out of the attack with a calf strain which, in the absence of last season's leading wicket taker, Dave Jones, left the attack a little thin on the ground. Fortunately the skipper Collyer and Steve Egerton managed to keep the scoring just about under control with Collyer also picking up 4 wickets along the way. Park declared after 55 overs with the score on a seemingly impressive 261 for 6.

Neston set about their task confidently in the knowledge that 2 seasons ago they had successfully chased 300 to win at the same ground. Andy Woolley and Stan Clifford put on fifty for the first wicket before Woolley top edged a pull shot to mid wicket. Clifford was joined by Jamie Hackett who batted superbly for his 59 before being bowled by Jones with the score on 157. Jamie was replaced at the wicket by elder brother Chris who took the attack to the bowlers making good use of the short boundaries to hammer a quick fifty off only 31 balls. When he was eventually caught behind Neston were only 15 runs short of victory. The two Hackett's had played a significant part in the match but the real accolades must be saved for the magnificent Clifford who batted through the entire innings for a chanceless 126 not out. Reliant upon the poor skipper to do all of his running (in what must be a record score for a runner at the crease in the County League) the injured Clifford showed no sign of being hindered by the calf strain as he dispatched the ball all around the ground. Fittingly it was Clifford who sealed victory with a glorious six into the adjacent field. [Scoresheet]

It was an impressive start to the new campaign, and one which man of the match Clifford was keen to build upon ..."It's early days yet but we seem to have a few players who have started in good form and if we can maintain this standard we should do quite well. I feel fine, it was just a precautionary measure to use a runner". An exhausted skipper was quick to recognise the quality of the openers innings...."The lazy b*****d, I'm knackered, he can do his own running next time".

The 2nd XI started the defence of their title with a home draw against a useful Toft side. Ben Thomas' side restricted the visitors to 163 with Pete Barber and Bob Yardley the pick of the bowlers. In reply Neston started well with the skipper and Phil Davis putting on over 50 for the first wicket. Thomas made 35 before being dismissed whilst Davis made a steady 40 on his return to cricket after a years "retirement". Although wickets remained intact, Toft's bowlers did manage to exert a straglehold on the run rate and once Davis and Barber had been dismissed the asking rate had risen significantly. A late flurry from Paul Stimpson brought some hope but in the end the home side fell 10 runs short of their target and had to settle for a draw.

Pete Chester's 2002 championship winning side met up with a strong Chester Boughton Hall 3rd XI in their opening game of the season. Chester won the toss, elected to bat and posted a very useful 223 for 5 declared off 50 overs. Neston's reply eventually stuttered to 173 for 9 (Nick Carter 45, Pete Chester 30) and the game finished as a draw.

New 4th XI skipper, Mike Potter, had a winning start at Chester Boughton Hall. Wickets were shared around as the home side were dismissed for 170. Neston's reply was founded on an excellent knock from Brian Murphy and in the end it was a comfortable 7 wicket win for Potters men.

A busy Easter weekend saw the 3rd's back in action at Bramhall on Sunday in the 1st round of the Jack Gardner Trophy. Russ Thompson found some early season form with a superb 113 not out out of Neston's 202 for 8 off their 45 overs. Bramhall were hindered by the loss of a player who broke his shoulder whilst fielding and eventually they finished 13 runs short at 189 for 9 off 44.3 overs.

13 April 2003 - WORTHWHILE WARM UP
The pre-season warm up games proved to be close games with Neston just coming out as winners in both. The results were hardly the most important parts of the day - of more concern was that everyone had chance to get into some form prior to the start of the league season on Saturday. At Parkgate, AJ and Stan both hit unbeaten fifties with Chris Hackett getting a swift 44. Stan also picked up 4 wickets. A few worries over some of the catching - or more accurately the dropping but other than that a very worthwhile day.

At Toft the 2nd's also had a useful run out with Max Bass (44) and Greg Shillinglaw (70) the main performers.

11 April 2003 - WARM UP GAME TEAM NEWS
DC is able to select an almost full strength side for tomorrows warm up game against Toft at Parkgate. The only notable absentee is Dave Jones (holiday). A possible return to cricket for Phil Davis after a one year retirement is delayed slightly pending a few net sessions for the Turk just to get him "back in the swing of things". Also out of retirement is opening bowler Dean Wright who will get a chance to take the new ball after impressing in the nets. It will be an all new opening bowling partnership with the recent arrival from Australia of Brett Bevan. Paul Coles returns to the club and the 1st XI after a short spell as Irby's captain. The Hackett brothers, Jamie and Chris are looking to add a sensible mix of circumspect but forceful batting in the middle order - Chris' new approach reflects his enforced change from all-rounder to batsman following serious injuries in 2002 and Jamie is determined to show that the 1st XI is the best place to be scoring runs. Steve Egerton is very keen to show that his batting ability is not limited to a few quick runs here and there, his pre-season preparation has gone very well and he is determined to force his way up the order. Youngster Elliot Berstock will open the batting with 2002 top run scorer Andy Woolley and of course stalwarts Brian Beaver and DC will be there for wicket keeping and off spinning respectively although both are vowing to be even more determined to contribute with the bat if and when required. Last but not least is Stan Clifford who more than anyone has epitomised how someone should prepare for a new campaign. No longer is there any talk of "getting old", "aching bones", "retiring" etc. etc. instead it's enthusiasm and longing to be out there in the middle. Saturday can't come quick enough for the old pro - long may he last !!!.

Meanwhile Ben Thomas takes his championship winning side to Toft for a pre-season warm up (although the two sides will actually meet again a week later in the opening game of the season !). On the face of it looks as if BT's side could be getting even stronger in 2003. Both Jim Marshall and Max Bass start in the two's after playing most if not all of last year in the 1st XI. Both of these consummate professionals will be trying to force their way back up a level as soon as possible. Likewise Greg Shillinglaw, Stevie Carter, Tom Hollingsbee, Martin Noakes, Paul Stimpson and Peter Barber will be pressing their claims after all having a taste of the 1st team at some point last year. And one (of many) to watch out for this year - youngster David Hurst.

8 April 2003 - OUTDOOR NETS
Outdoor nets have started. They will be every Thursday at the club from 6.00pm

6 April 2003 - BRETT HAS LANDED
All the way from Adelaide, our overseas player for 2003, Brett Bevan, has arrived well in time for the start of the season. Brett turned up at nets on Thursday only hours after touching down at Manchester. Clearly jet-lagged and struggling with the cold weather it was a gentle introduction to Neston CC. A race night on Friday and a couple of net sessions over the weekend gave Brett chance to meet everyone. Early days yet but let's hope he settles in well and enjoys his few months at Neston.

6 April 2003 - RACE NIGHT
The cricket sections Race Night was enjoyed by everyone there, although a few more faces would have made the night even more successful. Excellently organised by AJ once again.

26 March 2003 - PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES
Whilst the new league season starts on Saturday 19 April 2003, both the 1st and 2nd XI's will be in action a week earlier on the 12 April in warm up games against Toft. The 1st XI play host to Nigel Muirhead's side with a 1 o'clock start with the 2nd XI travelling to Toft also for a 1.00pm start. The fixtures are becoming an annual event especially since Toft 1st XI dropped out of the Premier League. DC explains.."We always enjoyed playing Toft and got on really well with them. It was disappointing when they were relegated so this is a good chance to meet up and enjoy a competitive match and start the season on the right note. Everyone at Neston is eagerly anticipating the new campaign and I expect to be picking from a full squad for the Toft game. The ground is looking magnificent and with the weather so nice at the moment you just want to get out there and get going.".

12 March 2003 - AGM NEWS AND CHANGES
Looking back it appears that I ommitted any report about the AGM held in November 2002. Briefly, there were a few changes of personnel: Jim Marshall stands down as Chairman after many years of excellent service although due to the fact that a replacement is not forthcoming Jim kindly offers to continue as acting Chairman for a short while. Peter Barber takes over as Secretary from Mike Heathfield who in turn takes over as the cricket section's representative on the Ground Committee instead of Brian Totty. Hugh Schofield (Fixture Secretary) and Phil Edwards (Treasurer) continue in their respective roles. Only one change as far as team captains go with Mike Potter taking over the 4th XI reins from Jim Hughes. Mark Strong (Midweekers), Chris Hackett (Sunday's), Pete Chester (3rd XI), Ben Thomas (2nd XI) and yours truly Dave Collyer (1st XI) continue for another season.

10 March 2003 - RECS OR SUTTON ST HELENS IN ECHO K.O.
After receiving a bye in the 1st Round Neston will have to travel to either St Helens Recs or Sutton St Helens in the 2nd Round.

10 March 2003 - NANTWICH IN CHESHIRE CUP
Neston play in one of only six first round ties in the 2003 Cheshire Cup. We have been drawn to play at home against Nantwich on Sunday May 4th with the winners playing at home against Cheadle Hulme in the 2nd Round on Sunday May 25th. The winners of that game will also be at home in Round 3 against either Bowdon or Winnington Park.

10 March 2003 - MACCLESFIELD IN LEAGUE K.O.
The 1st XI face a long trip to Macclesfield for their 1st Round tie in the League Knock Out.

10 March 2003 - AUSSIE BEVAN FOR NESTON
Adelaide based Brett Bevan will be joining Neston for the coming season as our overseas player. Brett is a 6'3" tall fast/medium left arm opening bowler who plays for Southern District Cricket Club in Adelaide. Brett will be arriving in the UK well in time for the start of the season.

10 March 2003 - STAN SET FOR FULL SEASON
After playing only 50% of the games last year Stan Clifford should be available for all of the 2003 season. Skipper DC is naturally pleased with the news... "It's great to see Stan fired up for the new campaign he is a key player for us - as he would be in any side. If we can keep him free from injury I'm sure that we can look forward to plenty of runs and wickets". Also raring to go is veteran leg spinner Dave Jones who will inevitably reach his career landmark of 1,000 1st XI wickets early in the season. It is estimated that at his current rate he will reach the career landmark of 1,000 1st XI runs by 2043 !!!. As in 2002 Simon Marshall will not return from Cambridge until mid season. The return of Phil Davis from retirement is still an outside possibility dependent upon how his knees are. Chris Hackett will be hoping that his tragic 2002 achilles injuries are consigned to the history books although the lasting damage will mean that his days as a fiery opening bowler are almost certainly over. He will be concentrating more on the batting side of his game - and no doubt will be looking to bowl some occasional crap off spin when the teams first choice crap off spinner is having a bad day. Jim Marshall is another veteran struggling for fitness but he too should be ready for the start of the season. Youngster Elliot Berstock will be hoping to be available as often as possible, in between appearances for Birkenhead School. Tom Hollingsbee and Steve Carter are also likely to be pushing for a place in the early 1st XI line up.

10 March 2003 - COLESY AND DEANO RETURN
Paul Coles will make a welcome return to the club this season after a brief spell as captain of Irby CC. Skipper DC is more than happy see his return.. "Colesy is the sort of player who will make significant contributions to the side both on and off the field. His enthusiasm and energy will rub off on those around him and I suspect that he will find it easier to relax and perform even better this time around.". Also making a welcome return to the club is opening bowler Dean Wright. Deano has rekindled his enthusiasm after a few years break from the game and is keen to make an impact. Also joining the club from Tamworth in the Birmingham League is Nathan Wilkes.

6 March 2003 - BACK IN BUSINESS
Fiji, New Zealand and Australia are all but a distant memory now, our six week trip had to come to an end some time. At least the worse of the British winter has gone by and the new cricket season is only a few weeks away. Time to get this site back up to date.

23 January 2003 - WEB SITE CLOSED FOR A WHILE
Doreen and I are off to New Zealand and Australia for a few weeks to watch Sarah play for the England Women's team. By the time we get back in early March the new season won't be too far away. Dont forget that indoor nets start on February 11th (see below).

24 November 2002 - FANCY PLAYING AT NESTON?
If you're a player looking for a change of club next year then why not have a think about Neston. We're a friendly and succesful club (2nd XI, 3rd XI and Under 21 champions in 2002) and we also have a great junior section. There's very few better places to play cricket and we would welcome any new faces to play at all levels. If you want more details then please email me. We are also on the look out for a committed and well qualified coach who could take on the junior section and also possibly play on Saturdays. - Dave Collyer

24 November 2002 - 2003 OPENING DAY FIXTURES
The fixtures for the 2003 season have been produced with Neston's 1st XI due to travel to Oulton Park for their first game on 19 April. No doubt there will be a few new faces in the Oulton Park line up as they look to chase hard for the championship. Hopefully full details of all fixtures will appear here soon in the meantime the opening ECB Premier League programme is: champions Bowdon v promoted Urmston; Bramhall v Chester B.H.; Didsbury v Alderley Edge; Hyde v Nantwich; Macclesfield v promoted Oxton; Oulton Park v Neston.

7 November 2002 - WALLASEY OPT OUT
Cheshire cricket is fortunate to have two such long-standing and generous sponsors. After Murray Smith Accountants agreed to continue their League sponsorship for a seventh season, Chester-based advisers and actuaries Quinn Thomas have announced they are to sponsor the Cheshire Cup and Shield in 2003 for a sixth year.Senior partner Maurice Quinn comments: "We were delighted that last season’s finals were excellent games won by New Brighton and Middlewich and both went to the last ball." Last season, QT provided the CCCC with £3,000 which was used to provide prize money from the semi-finals onwards and to cover match expenses and administration.

Finalists in four of the last five seasons, Wallasey have opted out next season and are to enter the Thwaites Lancashire Knock-out for the first time as the champions of the Lancashire-based Liverpool Competition.

7 November 2002 - GOING OPEN ?
Given another airing at the League’s November management meeting at Toft was a proposal by Alderley Edge, seconded by Bowdon, for the League to go ‘open’. With it is a companion AGM motion for the word ‘amateur’ to be excluded from the Constitution.

No radical changes are on the November agenda, although the Cricket Committee are urging clubs to accept several motions on 3rd XI eligibility and other forward-looking ideas to widen the qualification for playing in 3rd XI Sunday cricket.

Clubs are also being invited to consider a change to the Playing Regulation Appeals system and the introduction of fielding circles in the 2nd XI Cup.

Bowdon have proposed more leeway being allowed in arranging Fred Graham Trophy first round games.

The Umpires Association want to enforce fines for the non-return of umpires’ report cards. A new system may be introduced requiring captains to complete separate reports on each umpire’s performance.

All these proposals will be voted on at the January management meeting.

Clubs at the November meeting voted by 14 to 12 in favour of retaining the Jack Gardner 3rd XI Trophy as a straight knock-out, rather than reverting to the group system.

6 October 2002 - CRICKET SECTION AGM
The AGM will take place on Friday 8th November at 7.30pm. This year there will not be a formal meal or speeches but there will be trophy presentations.

6 October 2002 - JUNIOR PRESENTATION EVENING
The Neston Cricket Club Junior Presentation evening will be on Friday 11th October 2002, starting at 7pm in the clubhouse. All junior cricketers and their parents are invited to attend.
The programme for the evening will consist of:
- the presentation of trophies
- a brief review of the season
- a fish (or sausage) and chip supper
- a quiz (for both parents and juniors)
If you intend to come, please let Peter Joslin know at cp.joslin@lineone.net by Tuesday 8th at the latest with details of how many Fish and Chip (£3) or Sausage and Chip (£2) suppers you would like to order.

25 September 2002 - FREE FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO COLLECT
Adam's gone back to Australia and sadly the "Champagne Super Nova" is no longer required. If you want this vehicle for spare parts (it's actually a good runner) or for scrap then all you have to do is collect it and it's yours for free. If you want to beat the rush then contact Jim Marshall on 0151 336 2035.

16 September 2002 - 3RD'S ARE CHAMPIONS IN MOST DRAMATIC FASHION !!
The curtain came down on the 2002 season at Parkgate on Saturday and what a dramatic finale it turned out to be !. With both the 2nd XI and the Under 21's collecting silverware last week, attention was switched to Pete Chester's 3rd XI who needed to beat top of the table Warrington to leapfrog over them and into top spot. The visitors batted first and posted a very useful total of 181 in 55 overs. At tea time the equation was simple - Neston needed to score 182 in 45 overs to win the league. After a disastrous start which saw the experienced trio of Thompson, Chester and Reeve all back in the pavilion with only 13 on the board the title was but a distant dream. Gallantly the middle and lower order battled to get back in the game but with three overs remaining 32 runs were still required and there were only 2 wickets to fall. Fortunately for Neston one of those two was the ever popular Mark Strong whose reputation for big hitting is legendary. At the other end was Nick Carter, a promising and determined youngster. Strong led the way and reduced the deficit to 20 with 2 overs to go whilst Carter cleverly switched the strike whenever necessary. The penultimate over looked crucial for Warrington and with only 4 coming from the first 5 balls the equation had become an imposing 16 off 7 deliveries. By this time a large crowd had gathered and they watched in delight as Strong sent the final delivery of the penultimate over into the gardens at long on. 10 required off 6 balls and Carter, cool as a cucumber, pushed the single to bring Strong back on strike. With fielders posted all around the boundary it was still a tall order. But the Welshman wasn't finished yet and the next ball he sent one bounce over the longest boundary for 4 runs. Still the game, and the championship, was in the balance - could it be anymore dramatic? Yes it could - Strong aimed again at the longest boundary, ignoring the plethora of fielders posted for the catch. This time he struck it even better and the ball sailed into the gathering gloom and into the gardens for a huge title winning six. The scenes of celebration and the pitch invasion that followed were befitting of the drama that had just unfolded. Not until that final delivery crossed the ropes had Neston been top of the league. All season they had skulked in and around the top five, waiting only for their chance to snatch the title at the latest possible stage. It was drama of the highest order and although Mark Strong was the final hero he was first to admit that it had been a team performance throughout the campaign.

An hour earlier a similar drama was being played out on the front pitch where the visitors Macclesfield were trying to win the 1st XI championship against a Neston side that had little more than pride to play for. Neston chose to field first knowing that Macclesfield needed to score 200 to gather the maximum batting bonus points that would realistically be required if they wanted to stay above second placed Bowdon. It has been said many times this year that few sides can boast a stronger bowling line-up than Neston and as if to finally prove that point Dave Collyer's side turned in a superb display to dismiss the visitors for 128. The leg spinning duo of Dave Jones and Simon Marshall were in top form, picking up 6 and 4 wickets respectively to throw the championship wide open. Macclesfield's only option was to bowl Neston out and hope that wooden spoonists Cheadle Hulme could hold off Bowdon. Given the fragility of Neston's batting, and the fact that if anyone has a better bowling attack it is Macclesfield, the game was certainly not over. Sure enough wickets tumbled and soon enough Collyer's men were struggling at 17 for 4. Had Reid taken a fairly simple catch at gulley to dismiss Simon Marshall the game could have been all over. However, despite needing a runner Marshall was batting superbly although he was struggling to find partners to stay with him. Wickets continued to fall and when Beaver was adjudged LBW - a decision which was met with little approval from the large home contingency in the crowd - the home side were struggling on 105 for 8. One last hope of a glorious finish to the season took a huge blow when Marshall was ninth out for a magnificent 69 with 13 still required. Jones and Collyer reduced the deficit to just 3 to keep the crowd on the edge of their seats and the mobile phones frantically calling Bowdon. But in the end it was to be bitter disappointment for both sides - Collyer was tragically bowled by the leagues leading wicket-taker Mark Hillaby to give victory to a jubilant Macclesfield side but their celebrations didn't last long as the news arrived that Bowdon had won and secured the championship. Scoresheet

The 2nd XI made the long trip to Macclesfield in the knowledge that the championship was theirs. It was an anti-climatic match which Neston won easily. The one highlight was a great knock from Steve Carter (51) who was given the opportunity to show his batting ability and took it with aplomb.

The 4th's finished the campaign with a draw - their first of the season. It was Jim Hughes' last game as skipper, his tenure having brought league and cup honours over the years.

All in all it was a fantastic season for the club. the 2nd and 3rd XI's were champions and the Under 21's won the Cheshire Cup. Preparations now start for 2003 - if anyone fancies joining a succesful club with top class facilities they should speak with Dave Collyer on 0151 336 1753 or email the website at neston@collyer.force9.co.uk.

13 September 2002 - CHESHIRE GAME
The Cheshire (277) v Lincolnshire (281) match was a magnificent game of cricket but unfortunately Cheshire lost by 4 runs in the end. There was a large crowd at Parkgate, the sun shone and even if I say so myself the ground looked fantastic.

9 September 2002 - UNDER 21'S CHESHIRE CUP SUCCESS
Having seen the 2nd XI win their league on Saturday a large crowd returned to Parkgate on Sunday to see if the Under 21's could capture some more silverware when they met Grappenhall in the final of Cheshire Cup.

The visitors won the toss and invited Neston to bat first. Openers Gareth Peers and Elliot Berstock made a fine start sharing an opening stand of 50 in quick time. Having been forced onto the back foot Grappenhall then fought back well. Peers, Berstock, Marshall and Smith all fell in relatively quick succession and for a short while the runs somewhat dried up. Fortunately Neston's strength is in their depth and skipper Greg Shillinglaw and Adam Bass soon picked up the run rate with Shillinglaw in particular injecting momentum with some fine hitting to all parts of the ground. By the time he was out for a superb 47 the total was already looking respectable. The tail-enders ensured that the overs were used up and added useful runs at the same time to take the final score to an imposing 188 off 40 overs.

The Grappenhall reply did occasionally threaten to get going but each time it did, a suicidal approach to running between the wickets cost them dear. A total of five run outs owed a great deal to the pressure being exerted by the bowlers, and also to some great work in the field but no side can afford to give up so many wickets and still hope to compete. In the end the visitors were dismissed for 97.

It was a thoroughly professional performance from the Neston side in front of an appreciative crowd who had enjoyed the late summer sunshine and the fine cricket from both sides. The trophy was collected by skipper, Greg Shillinglaw, who also deservedly picked up the man of the match award.

9 September 2002 - GLORIOUS WEEKEND AT PARKGATE
Celebrations went on long into the night at Parkgate on Saturday after the 2nd XI finally secured the Premier League title. Victory for Ben Thomas' side over Alsager and a draw for 2nd placed Chester was the cue for the champagne and Moscow mules to flow. Fittingly the skipper had led the way earlier in the day with a superb half century as Neston scored 190. Jamie Hackett also made 50 before veteran Ken Peers got amongst the wickets to set up a comfortable win. Thomas' success is richly deserved - in only his first season as captain he has skillfully reshaped the side, blending talented youth with experienced old pros to produce a team not only capable of winning the league with a game to spare but also one that will hopefully serve the club well at 1st team level in the years to come. After the game Thomas was understandably delighted, "It's been a great team effort from beginning to end. I wouldn't want to single out any individuals at all, everyone has played their part. We may have a few drinks tonight !!".

For regular readers of this column it must seem that the weekly reports of the 1st XI's season are all too familiar with the recurring themes being a batting collapse, a good bowling and fielding performance and then a reflection that just a few more runs would have made all the difference. And once again Saturday's game at Nantwich unfortunately followed the well worn script to the letter. For the record, Neston were invited to bat first and made an excellent start despite the early loss of the stoic Elliot Berstock. Andy Woolley (25) and Adam Heading (63) both benefited from the ineptitude of the slip cordon to take the score up to 97 for 1 and all looked promising for Dave Collyer's side. Thereafter followed a familiar batting collapse with the critical wicket being the run out of Heading. 34 runs and 9 wickets later the innings was closed at 131 all out.

Neston's failings with the bat throughout the season have been mirrored by a Nantwich side who lie just below them in the league, so there was still some hope, and after tea the salvage operation started in earnest. Heading picked up two early wickets and Dave Jones trapped the dangerous Maynard LBW to give Neston more than a little encouragement. From that point on the large crowd were treated to a fascinating and very enjoyable game of cricket. Ascendency switched to and fro as firstly a few boundaries shifted the initiative to the home side only for Neston to pick up a wicket to swing the balance slightly in favour of the bowlers. In the end it was Nantwich's last pair who scrambled the winning run to gain a thrilling one wicket victory. For Neston, Dave Jones' 4 wickets took his tally for the season to 50, - only a few more than the number of times the skipper has muttered the words "if only we could have scored just a few more runs". Scoresheet

It may be too late to dramatically affect Neston's season but Collyer is still looking forward to having a big part to play in deciding who ends up as champions. Neston's last game on Saturday is at home to top of the table Macclesfield, one of three teams who could win the title (the others are Bowdon and Hyde). Collyer is really looking forward to the game "every match should have a purpose and whilst it would be nice to be challenging for the title ourselves at least we know we are playing in a crucial fixture where the stakes are very high. I'm sure there will be a big crowd and it's these sort of games that all players should look forward to. I'm really pleased that we have a chance to finish an under-achieving season with such an important game. We're not playing for Bowdon, or Macclesfield, or Hyde we're playing for Neston, it's a game that may decide the outcome of the Premier League but the result could also mean the difference between us finishing eighth or tenth in the league."

Parkgate is certainly the place to be on Saturday with the 3rd XI also involved in a championship decider. In this case Neston are themselves playing for the title in what should be a monumental clash against Warrington 3rd's. The visitors currently hold top spot but a good win for Pete Chester and his 2nd placed side would see the trophy returning to Neston. The dramatic climax to the season was set up despite the 3rd XI's defeat at Timperley last Saturday. In a high scoring and very close game Neston managed to collect 14 points which was enough to keep them in touch with the leaders.

Whilst the 1st's 2nd's and 3rd's were all involved in dramatic games the 4th XI travelled to Cheadle Hulme for a match which was anything but. The home side could only turn out 8 players and Jim Hughes's side duly completed an easy victory.

3 September 2002 - BATTING FLOPS AGAIN
With only two games of the season remaining and a mid-table finish the only thing left to play for, Neston skipper Dave Collyer must be wondering what the season might have held had his side showed any form at all with the bat. Generally Neston's bowling and fielding has been as good, as if not better than most sides, but week after week a lack of runs has cost them dear. Saturday was no different. Despite the fact that the conditions were very much in their favour a final total of 140 all out was as much as the home side could manage when they batted first against Hyde at Parkgate. The below par score was even more disappointing given the fact that an opening partnership between Elliot Berstock and Andy Woolley had for once set a good foundation for a large total. Woolley (27) was first out with the score on 71 but the good platform for the innings soon collapsed as the next nine wickets fell for only 69. At least Berstock's 32 and Gareth Peers' 30 provided some crumbs of comfort for the skipper with the two youngsters of side showing a potential that hopefully will pay dividends next year.

In all fairness, Neston's ambitions have been severely dented by injuries and lack of availability. Last season's County League player's player of the year Stan Clifford has missed the latter half of the campaign and Cambridge cricket blue Simon Marshall missed the first half, whilst Chris Hackett's achilles injury has meant that he has played only 5 games. The situation on Saturday was made worse by the absence of Brian Beaver and leading wicket taker Dave Jones and it was further hampered by the reluctance of Collyer to call up players from the 2nd XI given their title aspirations.

In the end Hyde strolled to a six wicket victory against a weakened bowling attack which actually bowled well despite the loss of Adam Heading after he twisted an ankle. Scoresheet

With only two games to go it would be nice to see the batsmen suddenly return to form starting on Saturday when Neston visit Nantwich.

The 2nd XI may be suffering some nerves as they close in on the league title. Their game at Warrington ended in a draw with the home side having the better of the proceedings. Highlight for Neston was a half century from Peter Barber but it wasn't enough as Ben Thomas' side fell quite a way short of their 170 target for victory. A draw for second placed Chester still leaves Neston in pole position with only two games to go. On Saturday Neston host Alsager at Parkgate - a victory and defeat for Chester will see Ben Thomas lifting the trophy in his first season as captain.

3rd XI skipper Pete Chester also has hopes of grabbing some silverware as his side close in on the 3rd XI league leaders. It's a large gap to make up in two games but one which the skipper hasn't given up hope of. The 3rd's picked up an easy victory at Upton on Saturday after bowling the home side out for only 67. There were good performances with the ball from Will Noakes (5 for 10) and Mark Strong (4 for 2) both of whom were well supported by some fine catching especially from Nick Hickley in the slips. Nigel Davies (38) and Pete Chester (21*) made short work of knocking off the runs.

The 4th XI were just pleased to playing cricket at all after all the rain which has severely affected their recent matches. Captain Jim Hughes (51) and Brian Murphy (52*) led the way in Neston's total of 178 for 8 against Brooklands before Murphy turned his hand to the ball (4 for 26) to dismiss the opposition for 113.

This Sunday the Under 21's face Grappenhall in the Cheshire Cup final at Parkgate. The game starts at 1.00pm and all support is welcome.

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