Match Reports

This section is dedicated to reports submitted by team Captains, or other such members allocated editorial rights, ie. The Webmaster !  For the 1st team, such reports will also indicate the winners of the prestigious 'Champagne Moment' and 'Dick of the Day' Awards, plus fines accumulated. 

*** Dick Of The Season***, the final scores on the doors.  It appeared close after the Penton game, and the Webmaster was under no illusions he would be 'heavily' promoted for fines on the final week, but it did not materialise (although the 'bats in the bag' will be a good starter for next season).  This was primarily due to a Stevie Fenner classic for DOTD which would not be beaten, and the skippers inability to avoid fines during the day.  So with great pleasure it was an honour to announce Paul Anscombe as Dick of the Season.

165    - Paul Anscombe

151    - Phil Cook

149    - Steve Fenner

148    - Andy Walker

140    - Ben Robbins

111     - Nigel Dibben

109     - Mark Dibben

87      - Rob Jackson

73      - Dave Guy

67      - Pete Bayless

49      - Hugh Baker

40      - Ray Fenner

27      - John Elford

22      - Matt Angel

          - Alan Zanetti

10      - Alan Jackson

          - Pete Arculus

9        - Elliott Hayward

          - Phil Headley

          - Derek Dibben

8        - Nigel Pervin

          - Mark Josling

          - Sean (Ray's mate)

7        - Greg Sullivan

6        - Mick Sullivan

5        - Anika Drage

 

 

Date : Sat. August 27th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Tichborne Park II Venue : Littleton
 

On a damp but drying track, the Littleton skipper surprisingly elected to bat first.  A 'slight' change in batting order, with Dave Guy opening with Mark Dibben.  The regular tailender went on to prove he can handle a bat as well playing some sublime shots before departing for 20.  Ben Robbins and Steve Fenner fell cheaply, and Guy was bowled for 32, big Trev Booker (5-48) was proving unplayable.  Andy Walker and Matt Angel built a partnership before Walker fell for 25 after playing some 'entertaining' shots.  But no worries, the Big Guns were still to come in.  Angel eventually went for 19, then the runs seemed to dry up, when normally they would accelerate.  Pate Bayless (27) played is usual composed innings, but Rob Jackson struggled to get the ball off the square !  Nigel Dibben fell cheaply, leaving Phil Cook to smash his only, and the innings final delivery for six.  Skipper Paul Anscombe bottled it and went into Average preservation mode, batting at number 11.  The innings concluded at 168-9.  All this goes to show how easy the game can be when you have your eye in, and that top 5 batsmen don't seem to be able to handle the game when the pressure is on and they have no time to adjust to the bowlers.

In reply, Tichborne struggled against Mark Dibben, but at the other end spinner Paul Anscombe offered plenty of opportunities by trying to bowler quicker in the style of Steve Harmison.....he failed !!  Tichborne through N.Williams (46) steadily chased the total, but Nigel Dibben (2-27) the Phil Cook (3-43) took quick wickets and put Littleton back in control.  Cook was particularly unlucky with 6 fours going through the slip cordon before the skipper finally offered him a 3rd Man.  With the game in the balance, man of the match Booker took on the bowlers, blasting them all over the ground for 36no, and finishing the game with 8 overs and 3 wickets to spare.

Champagne Moment : Mark Dibben for showing the top order how to bat.

Dick of the Day : A Stevie Fenner classic.  "Paul Anscombe, look at him.....who is the young bird in the pink he is chatting up this time".  "Stevie, that's his Mum !!".

Fines  : Dave Guy - 10, Nigel Dibben - 24, Rob Jackson - 16, Paul Anscombe - 32, Phil Cook - 27, Steve Fenner - 24(42), Andy Walker - 19, Ben Robbins - 27, Mark Dibben - 14(0), Pete Bayless - 14, Matt Angel -11, Derek Dibben - 4.

Date : Sat. August 27th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Liphook & Ripsley II Venue : Liphook

No game again.  Early in the morning Liphook contacted us to inform us the pitch was not fit for play.  It must be emphasised nothing should be read into this while considering the opponents position in the league, but there was sufficient concern to request the Hampshire Cricket Leagues panel visit the ground to confirm its condition.  This they duly did and confirmed indeed the one specific track marked out to be used was not fit for the match.

 

Date : Sat. August 20th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Penton Venue : Penton

On an amazingly hard track, Littleton lost the toss and were surprised to be asked to bat.  Dave Guy and Nigel Dibben took on the bowlers and put on 75 in the first 15 overs.  Pete Lane was then introduced and his left arm in-swingers claimed Guy (36), Jackson and Bayless, all LBW for the addition of no runs.  Paul Anscombe (38) then joined Dibben, and  the score accelerated again.  Dibben eventually fell for a superb 84, leaving Phil Cook (29) and Andy Walker (20no) to take the innings through to completion at 223-7.

In reply, Penton struggled, with Phil Cook taking two early wickets.  Mark Dibben on his birthday was suffering the effects of the previous evening, and pulled up lame after only a few overs.  Nigel Dibben and Paul Anscombe (2-36) tamed the middle order, but Dave Rolls was still present and smashing the ball to all parts.  Ben Robbins and Walker took a wicket a piece before Cook returned with four overs to go.  Rolls was dismissed for a superb 84, and Cook bowled the final batsman off the last delivery of the match to finish with 5-22, and leave Penton on 181 all out.

Special mention must be made for Anika Drage, who maintained Littleton's ability to field lady cricketers at a high level.  Thanks also to Rob Jackson for obtaining her services for the day at short notice.

Champagne Moment : Had to be Nigel Dibben for his 84.

Dick of the Day : This was a no brainer, Paul Anscombe, and he basically claimed it before the match even started, and the fines got significantly worse as the day went on!  Anika please do not take any offence at this publication.  Having asked Rob to provide us with a couple a players at short notice he received a text back confirming it was ok.  Before leaving the ground, Paul advised us we had Elliott and some chap with an odd name, Anike, probably an Indian spinner !  This award has also ensured Paul achieved a record fines total in a single week for the club.   There was another potential late contender, astoundingly, Pete Bayless, who managed to smash his head against the beam in the pub, not once, not twice, three times !

Fines  : Dave Guy - 11, Nigel Dibben - 11(0), Rob Jackson - 11, Paul Anscombe - 22(44), Phil Cook - 14, Elliott Hayward - 9, Andy Walker - 14, Ben Robbins - 21, Mark Dibben - 16, Pete Bayless - 14, Anika Drage - 5.  Not present, Steve Fenner - 20 (Of all the games when we needed him to do the scorebook, and he was not there, instead spotted in Southampton ?)

Date : Sat. August 20th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Ramsdell II Venue : Littleton

After losing the toss, Littleton were inserted on a very damp track.  Ramsdell, fielding two first team bowlers, proved unplayable and destroyed the top order, quickly reducing the score to 37-7.  Some sort of respectability was achieved from a spirited stand between Greg Sullivan (22) and Paul Zanetti (20) taking the final total to 84-9.  The track was now drying, and the Littleton bowlers performed excellently, with Greg Sullivan (2-27) and Will Lecomber (2-32) the prime wicket takers.  Unfortunately the total was never going to be defendable, and Ramsdell completed victory with 5 wickets to spare.

Date : Sat. August 13th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Steeple Langford Venue : Littleton

Another good looking batting track, as usual the skipper loses the toss, and we have to bat with rain forecast.  Luckily at 2pm the rain arrived, and never stopped, with play never starting.

Champagne Moment : Not Applicable.

Dick of the Day : Not formally awarded, but two for consideration.  1) Nigel Dibben for asking if the 2005 handbook contained the 2005 fixtures.  2) The six team members (Paul Anscombe, Ben Robbins, Phil Cook, Steve Fenner, Phil Headley, Pete Bayliss) who spent 15 minutes in the rain trying to unravel one knot in the rope trying to rope off the square.

Fines  : None enforced.

Date : Sat. August 13th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Crown Taverners II Venue : Crown Taverners

Same as the 1st team, loads of rain and no cricket !

Date : Sat. August 6th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Holybourne Venue : Holybourne

On what appeared to be a good batting track, Littleton were surprisingly inserted. Local knowledge really helps !  The track played slow and the the opening bowlers kept the run total below that of overs for a long period of time.  Terry Rosati (12-8-12-2) proved unplayable, his first 7 overs being maidens, including the wickets of Dave Guy and Nigel Dibben.  Rob Jackson stood firm, and with the help of Pete Bayless (25) got the score rolling.  Jackson eventually fell for an excellent 56, then Paul Anscombe (22) and the tailenders took the score to what appeared to be a defendable 161 all out.

In reply Mark Dibben bowled steadily without success, and openers Carey and Millard both hit 24 to set a good foundation.  After their departure the rate slowed, more wickets fell to the trundlers of Nigel Dibben (3-55) and the game swung back to Littleton. Ayres though had other ideas.  Batting left handed with both the physique and style of our own Steve Herridge, he bludgeoned the bowling all over the place.  For unknown reasons, the skipper kept himself on, despite Phil Cook having 4 overs remaining, and suddenly Holybourne only required 14 off the last 2 overs, which became 7 off the last over.  After a couple of singles, Cook (2-19) clean bowled Ayres (34) and with everyone on the boundary prevented the required 4 off the last delivery.

Champagne Moment : Rob Jackson for his excellent 50 in trying conditions.

Dick of the Day : Ben Robbins again.  Accumulated comments such as "It takes a while to get to Holybourne............who are we playing today ?".  "Oh Saints was Nil Nil, was it a draw then ?".

Fines  : Dave Guy - 7, Nigel Dibben - 13, Rob Jackson - 11(0), Paul Anscombe - 13, Phil Cook - 14, Steve Fenner - 12, Andy Walker - 17, Ben Robbins - 13(26), Mark Dibben - 14, Pete Bayless - 9, Mark Josling - 8.

Date : Sat. August 6th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Medstead Venue : Littleton

Information currently minimal on this game (thankfully).  It appears Medstead batted first, rattled up an enormous 267-1, through M.Grisham 128 and J.Sporten 100no with a 200 partnership.  In reply only Richard Baker with a superb 87 really troubled the scorers, with Littleton all out for 155.  Enough said !

Date : Sat. July 30th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Four Marks Venue : Littleton
 
On a wet and miserable day, the game eventually got started, but after several interruptions from rain, was abandoned with Four Marks having made 35-0 off 12 overs..

Champagne Moment : None awarded !

Dick of the Day : Ben Robbins, reason currently unknown.

Fines  : None advised.

Date : Sat. July 30th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Tadley Hobos Venue : AWE Tadley
 
On a damp wicket, Littleton batted first, and wickets regularly fell with no batsman establishing himself. The innings was held together though by the superb Ravi Anwar.  He found some short term support from Richard Baker (20), passed his fifty, then before partners ran out completed a magnificent century.  Anwar finished on 107no in a defendable total of 182.

In reply Tadley gradually chased their total, and despite the efforts of Steve Barrow (2-37) and Chris Tee (2-45) got home with 4 wickets to spare.  Again too many dropped catches cost the match.

 

Date : Sat. July 23rd 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : East Tytherley Venue : Littleton
 
The skipper won the toss on a belter of a batting track.  Dave Guy and Nigel Dibben both progressed at a steady pace and seemed unworried by the bowling putting on 91 for the first wicket.  Spinner Kersley was then introduced, and both players then fell quickly on jug avoidance scores of 49.  Rob Jackson was in swashbuckling mode, but fell cheaply to Kersley.  Paul Anscombe then joined Phil Cook with the score at 111-3 off 30 overs.  The onslaught then began.  No bowler was spared, especially Tardy who went for 80 off 11 overs.  Fours and sixes abounded, with Cook leading the way and for once Anscombe the back seat role.  Cook achieved his 50 in under 8 overs, and Anscombe his in the final over.  Cook (72no) and Anscombe (54no) completed the innings of 241-3 with an unbroken 12 over partnership of 124.

In reply, East Tytherley lost early wickets, although runs accumulated at a rapid rate.  With Will Edwards at the crease the game changed.  Both Mark Dibben (2-51) and Hugh Baker were smashed all over the ground, including some of the biggest sixes seen for years.  It was a one man show with East Tytherley reaching 90 off only 11 overs.  The introduction of Phil Cook then changed the game.  His 2nd ball being that dream unplayable delivery, bowling Edwards, and the bail finishing up 5 yards from the boundary !  After that Baker went rabbit hunting, and the innings then fell apart.  Baker finished with 6-66 and Cook 2-7 as Tytherley closed on 127 all out.  The quality of the outfielding must be mentioned (apart from Phil Cook juggling and dropping a dolly).  Several superb catches taken by Elliot Hayward, Rob Jackson and John Elford.

Champagne Moment : Elliot Hayward, for his two superb catches.  It was suggested that it should be a team award (excluding Phil) for the superb catching, but hey, that would have lost us too much money !

Dick of the Day : Harsh but fair, Phil Cook for his dolly dropped catch when the rest of the team fielding had been superb.  There was though some 'post award' competition for DOTD.  Phil now wearing the new DOTD jesters hat (thanks Ray) was asked by Hugh, "who won dick of the day" !).

Fines  : Dave Guy - 10, Nigel Dibben - 9, Rob Jackson - 10, Paul Anscombe - 13, Phil Cook - 17(34), Steve Fenner - 10, Andy Walker - 14, Hugh Baker - 11, Mark Dibben - 9, Elliot Hayward - 5(0), John Elford - 5 : despite not playing, the following - Matt Angel - 1 (Biggles Photo), Alan Jackson - 5 (verbal abuse of a respected Tennis Club member).

Date : Sat. July 23rd 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Ropley II Venue : Ropley
 
Another convincing win for the 2nds.  Batting first Ropley made consistent progress, especially from Neil Archer with a hard hitting 67.  Although batsmen made starts, no others continued to a big score.  Alan Zanetti bowled 11 tidy overs taking 4-31, and was ably supported by Chris Tee who took 3-61. Ropley closed on a good score of 191-9.

In reply, Steve Barrow continued from last week.  An opening partnership of 89 with Pate Arculus (37) paved the way.  He then received excellent support from Derek Dibben (21) and newcomer Ben Jenkinson (25no).  Barrow finished on a magnificent 92no with victory achieved by 7 wickets.  'Statto' has checked the scores and believes that Steve Barrow is currently averaging  an astounding 240 for the season.  Unfortunately with only 4 innings to his name it is unlikely the league would accept this for their records !

 

Date : Sat. July 16th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Old Alresford Venue : Old Alresford
 
Having won the toss, and electing to bat, Littleton had an early set back as Nigel Dibben clipped what would have been a wide down leg side into fine legs hands.  Rob Jackson and Matt Angel put on 53 for the 2nd wicket.  Leg spinner Hardy was getting turn and accounted for Jackson (38) and Cook.  Paul Anscombe was joined by Nigel Pervin with a hard hitting 22, but as wickets continued to fall and be sacrificed (sorry Mark), Anscombe finished on 68no leaving a challenging total of 190-9.

In reply, lost their 'John Travolta' opener first ball, with Mark Dibben ignoring his dancing feet to remove his middle stump.  Hugh Baker (4-37) and Phil Cook (3-33) then destroyed the innings which went to 15-4 then 98-9, and all appeared won. Not so, Dave Stanbrook, then found support from last man Hallgrath and blasted the ball all round the ground.  His 80no was superb, and may have continued had Hallgrath not eventually fallen for 19, leaving Old Alresford all out on 158.

Champagne Moment : Mark Dibben, for the ball that removed the Disco dancing opener..

Dick of the Day : Maybe a little harsh, but hey he deserves it.  Nigel Dibben for dropping Dave Stanbrook in the slips ! 

Fines  : Rob Jackson - 11, Nigel Dibben - 9(18), Matt Angel - 10, Paul Anscombe - 13, Phil Cook - 9, Steve Fenner - 11, Nigel Pervin - 8, Sean (Rays mate) - 4, Hugh Baker - 10, Mark Dibben - 10(0), John Elford - 6 : despite not playing, the following - Andy Walker - 6, Ray Fenner - 3.

Date : Sat. July 16th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Midhurst II Venue : Littleton
 
Littleton got back to winning ways with an emphatic win against Midhurst.  On a superb batting track, several batsmen contributed, and only Alan Zanetti (3-55) made in roads.  Midhurst closed on what was considered a comfortable 213-8.

The reply though was astounding with Pete Arculus and Steve Barrow opening.  Arculus with a patient 46 (being fair, he did not get much of the strike) supporting the allegedly jet lagged Steve Barrow who only stepped off the plane from America during the morning, in a 2nd team record opening partnership of 189.  Barrow was awesome and flayed the bowling all over the ground, eventually finishing undefeated on 131 guiding Littleton to a 9 wicket victory with 4 overs to spare.

 

Date : Sat. July 9th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Stockton Venue : Littleton
 
This time it was the 1st team to miss out as Stockton were unable to raise a side.

Champagne Moment : N/A.

Dick of the Day : N/A

Fines  : None.

Date : Sat. July 9th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Sparsholt III Venue : Sparsholt
 
Littleton suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of local rivals Sparsolt.  Batting first, Sparsholt were reduced to 21-3 with Hugh Baker (4-56) doing the damage.  Two further wickets fell before Fox (60no) and Stansfield with a hard hitting 117no destroyed the bowling.  Dropped catches and 3 missed run outs made the task even more difficult as Sparsholt finished on 241-5.

In reply, wickets fell cheaply and regularly against tidy bowling, with only Ravi Anwar hitting 36 off 20 balls making a genuine contribution.  The innings then collapsed to 98 all out. 

 

Date : Sat. July 2nd 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : South Newton Venue : South Newton
 
Losing the toss on an overcast day with rain in the air, Littleton were inserted to bat first.  At 21 for no loss things seemed ok, but three quick wickets from the impressive Huntley (3-21) reduced the innings to 36-3.  Dave Guy and Paul Anscombe (24) then put on 74 in 17 overs providing the foundation for Steve Fenner to showcase his new found reverse sweep (including the 'champagne sipping' pose in the confidence the match was wrapped up).  Guy eventually fell for 68 and with Pete Arculus (15no), the final total was 161-7.

In reply, South Newton lost and early wicket, but that brought Partridge and Andrew together.  Despite tidy bowling from Mark Dibben (12-3-29-1), runs accumulated and a 102 partnership ensued.  Andrew fell for 39, but Partridge remained unbeaten on 89 as South Newton completed a comfortable victory.  Questions were asked to Mark Dibben on how he felt being the 'grandad' of the bowlers at only 24, in perhaps the youngest bowling attack ever fielded by Littleton.

Champagne Moment : Steve Fenner, audacious reverse sweep, with the subsequent pose of stardom.

Dick of the Day : Ben Robbins, didn't turn up meaning Alan Zanetti had to play, with his contribution being one over, blasted for 14 which lost the match ! 

Fines  : Dave Guy - 5, Nigel Dibben - 8, Rob Jackson - 8, Pete Bayless - 9, Paul Anscombe - 9, Steve Fenner - 6(0), Pete Arculus -10, Greg Sullivan - 7, Alan Zanetti - 11, Mark Dibben - 5, Hugh Baker - 7 : despite not playing, the following - Ben Robbins - 6(12), Andy Walker - 6, Phil Cook - 4, Ray Fenner - 4.

Date : Sat. July 2nd 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : AWE Tadley III Venue : Littleton
 
Another week without a game, as AWE Tadley have withdrawn from the league

 

Date : Sat. June 25th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Rotherwick ITW Venue : Rotherwick
 
Due to a wedding, several core players were missing.  On a fast lively track, where the ball regularly passed the batsman above chest height, Rotherwick struggled against the pace and lift of Mark Dibben (1-41) and Hugh Baker (1-39). J.Orange (35) and S.Guye (35) made steady progress, but the introduction of John Elford (1-42) and youngster Greg Sullivan contained the runs.  Sullivan bowled exceptionally on his debut taking 2-36, and only Vallis with a patient 45no looked comfortable, seeing Rotherwick to a final total of 161-5.  Pete Bayliss took 3 catches behind the stumps.
 
In reply Rotherwick also used the pace and lift, but Rob Jackson (37) and Dave Guy (25) got the innings off to a good start.  After they were dismissed then wickets fell at regular intervals with few runs being added.  Neil Payne (3-29) held up one end, but in the gloomy dusk and drizzle, the pace off Robbie Bowen (5-34) proved unplayable.  Sullivan (18no) then showed he could bat, taking Bowen for two superb 4's, but ran out of partners as Littleton folded on 110 all out

Champagne Moment : Greg Sullivan.  Superb all-round debut.

Dick of the Day : Andy Walker, again. Nothing spectacular, but too many minor misdemeanours lead to the committee decision that the cumulative efforts constituted the 'Red Card'.  Editors comment.  This award was perceived to not be on merit, but that the fines committee are MBG's (Money Grabbing B*****ds). On the basis that the minor indiscretions cumulated to a hefty sum, why not get them doubled by awarding the DOTD as well ! 

Fines  : Paul Anscombe - 20(and he was not even at the game), Pete Bayless - 2, Phil Cook - 5(again, not even playing), Hugh Baker - 11, John Elford - 6, Rob Jackson - 9, Dave Guy - 6, Andy Walker - 16(32), Steve Fenner - 6, Mark Dibben - 6, Ben Robbins - 14, Mick Sullivan - 6, Greg Sullivan - 5(0), Nigel Dibben - 6 (again, not even playing)  .

Date : Sat. June 25th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Sulhamstead & Ufton II Venue : Littleton
 
Batting first, Sulhamstead steadily accumulated runs against a depleted Littleton attack.  Chris Tee took 3-42, and Pete Arculus who has not bowled for several years took 2-10 with his 'off breaks'.  Sulhamstead eventually closed on 172-8.
 
In reply, Littleton lost Derek Dibben unfortunately run out at the bowlers end from a deflected drive backing up.  Pete Arculus (50) batted patiently but ran out of partners, and the innings drifted to a disappointing 128-9.

 

Date : Sat. June 18th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Over Wallop Venue : Littleton
 

On a scorching day, Littleton won the toss and elected to bat.  The Over Wallop opening bowlers Bede and Cavill (3-34) made fast inroads, leaving Littleton on 15-3. Rob Jackson (17) and Andy Walker steadied the ship, but the introduction of Cullen (4-38) destroyed the middle order and the score collapsed to 97-7 off 36 overs.  Walker eventually fell for a patient 32, but Hugh Baker (33no) with some lusty blows, and Ben Robbins (13no) took the final total to 132-8.

In reply, despite losing Robertson in the first over, Over Wallop blasted the bowling to all parts of the ground, and were 69-2 off 14 overs, with Cavill making the bulk of the runs.  Baker and Mark Dibben were replaced by Phil Cook and Paul Anscombe, but at 97-3 off 20 overs, the game appeared over.  After Cook removed Cavill for an excellent 66, the rest of the innings then collapsed.  The spin of Anscombe (5-35) proved unplayable, and Cook (4-29) bowled with his usual pace and accuracy, with the final batsman removed in the 32nd over and Over Wallop still 7 runs short.

Champagne Moment : Paul Anscombe, 5 wickets, and 2 superb caught and bowleds.

Dick of the Day : Andy Walker, for spraying his anti perspirant into his eyes.  Subsequently, the award was also jointly made to Phil Cook after identifying the verbal comments he made to one of our ex-umpires about his dog which has recently died.

Fines  : Paul Anscombe - 8(0), Pete Bayless - 6, Phil Cook - 12(24), Hugh Baker - 10, Ray Fenner - 10, Rob Jackson - 7, Dave Guy - 4, Andy Walker - 6(12), Steve Fenner - 10, Mark Dibben - 8, Ben Robbins - 11.  Derek Dibben - 5, Alan Jackson - 5.  It was also pleasing to find 2nd team players proving just as vulnerable.  If they decide to 'finish' their game early and watch the 1st team, then their actions are considered fair pickings by the Fines Committee, thanks Derek and AJ !.

Date : Sat. June 18th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Whitchurch II Venue : Whitchurch
 
A very inept display with the bat saw Littleton 2nds lose to Whitchurch 2nds by 8 wickets.  Batting first, the Whitchurch bowlers regularly took wickets, and only Greg Sullivan with 19 showed any resistance in a final total of 80.

In reply Whitchurch coasted to victory, despite three dropped catches helping their cause.

All in all, a very bad day at the office, but at least the 2nd team got back to see the excitement of the 1st team match.

 

Date : Sat. June 11th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Breamore Venue : Breamore
 
Due to absentees (skipper and vice-skipper deciding a stag day was more important), Littleton were left to rue only going into the game with 2 front line bowlers, and went down to their first defeat of the season.  Batting first, on a variable wicket, Dave Guy (24) and Rob Jackson (41) put on a steady opening partnership of 72.  But then 4 wickets fell for 25 runs, (A. Northway 3-25), and during this period, runs just dried up.  With only 100 on the board after 36 overs, a low total looked on the cards.  Then Phil Cook (61no) [despite not timing the ball, his words] and our new find, Bens mate, Phil Headley (21no) took on the bowlers and added 68 in the last 6 overs leaving a defendable total of 168-4.  
 
In reply, We had Phil and Mark to bowl, then hope for the best.  Breamore started slowly and steadily, but after 4 overs, Mark Dibben was unable to continue bowling, of all the days !  Phil Cook bowled with his usual accuracy, with his 11 overs only going for 23 runs, although amazingly, no wickets.  John Elford who seems to bowl more often in the 1st team than the 2nd team, also bowled exceptionally well taking 1-33 off 11 overs.  Shaun Marlow played his usual patient innings, supported by P.Lacey (24), and was able to pick off the bad balls to keep the scoreboard ticking over.  Rob Jackson, asked to fill a void bowled spiritedly (don't mention the first over though), taking 2 wickets, but unfortunately went for 67 runs, and Andy Walker took 1-8, but Marlow eventually finished on 70no taking Breamore to victory with 1.5 overs to spare.  Considering the variable bounce on the track (Ray Fenner was lucky to still have his head attached), it was astounding only 9 wickets fell all day.

Champagne Moment : Phil Cook, superb catch and batting onslaught (even though he wasn't timing the 6's !).

Dick of the Day : Steve Fenner, awarded in his absence, for the most attrocious throw to run the batsman out.  It has to be said there were several contenders this week, and it had to go to a vote.  Dave Guys throw (if that's what it was), Rob's first over, has there ever been a worse one in league cricket, Squirt asking if Rob had found the ground, when he was sat in front of him, and primarily whether Paul and Nigel should just be fined £5 and then get it doubled.

Fines  : Phil Headley - 9, Pete Bayless - 5, Phil Cook - 12(0), John Elford - 6, Ray Fenner - 10, Rob Jackson - 11, Dave Guy - 7, Andy Walker - 8, Steve Fenner - 9(18), Mark Dibben - 10, Ben Robbins - 11. + Paul Anscombe and Nigel Dibben, 10 each in their absence.

Date : Sat. June 11th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Ashford Hill Venue : Littleton
 
Littleton II, with a severely depleted side came out second best against a battling Ashford Hill.
Ashford Hill, put into bat were initially struggling against tight bowling. Chris Tee returning after nearly a two year injury lay off bowled superbly taking 3-24 with good support from young Greg Sullivan 3-49 kept the runs restricted.  S. Evans then started to open up and with able support Ashford Hill scored 139 runs off the last 12 overs, with the rest of the part-time bowlers really suffering.  Evans eventually finished on 94no, in a total of 221-7.
In reply, Littleton batted with determination, but against tidy, though not destructive bowling, could not match the required run rate.  Peter Arculus (60) and Ravi Anwar (34) kept the runs rolling, and despite a brisk 31no from Alan Zanetti, Littleton fell well short on 161, even though only 3 wickets were lost.

 

Date : Sat. June 4th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Basingstoke & North Hants II Venue : Littleton
 

Batting first on a drying track, Littleton were soon in trouble losing the first three wickets (Guy, Jackson, Bayless) for 30, Chris Froud taking 3-34.  Nigel Dibben was still present and held up one end while first Phil Cook (41) then Paul Anscombe (47) were severe on the change bowlers.  After their departure, Dibben opened up and eventually departed for an excellent 84.  John Vinn took 4 wickets, but at the expense of 76 runs, leaving a final total of 225-8.

 
In reply, Basingstoke were always up with the run rate and Froud was particular agressive.  Rouse with 25, then others all chipping in kept the score rolling along.  Mark Dibben (2-32) pinned down an end, but it was the introduction of brother Nigel with the ball, enhancing his claims for an all-rounder spot, which changed the game.  His 4-44, including Froud who went for 61, removed the middle order, and the tail were unable to continue in his fashion.  Rob Jackson and Ben Robbins were given the opportunity to pot some rabbits and took the final wickets leaving Basingstoke all out for 153.

After this result the first team remain undefeated, and top of the table

Champagne Moment : Rob Jackson, wicket maiden and on field footy skills.

Dick of the Day : Mark Dibben, confused by our new website.........until he realised he was looking at Littleton CC in Denver Colorado !

Fines  : Nigel Dibben - 13, Pete Bayless - 8, Phil Cook - 10, Paul Anscombe - 11, Ray Fenner - 9, Rob Jackson - 4(0), Dave Guy - 8, Andy Walker - 10, Steve Fenner - 12, Mark Dibben - 11(22), Ben Robbins - 11. 

Date : Sat. June 4th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Liss II Venue : Liss
 

The 2nds managed to lose a match they really should have won.  Batting first on a slow track, runs were difficult to come by against tidy accurate bowling.  But then an excellent spirited stand of 119 between Ravi Anwar (73) and Pete Arculus (57 off 40 overs) kick started the scoring, but unfortunately after their departure, the momentum was not maintained, with the final overs yielding few runs.  A final total of 154-6 was though still defendable on the slow track.

 
In reply, Liss started steadily, accumulating runs, but were kept in check by Greg Sullivan who only conceded 25 runs from his 10 overs.  The introduction of Alan Zanetti changed the game. Assisted by some superb catches, he took six wickets, leaving Liss requiring 28 from 8 overs with only the last pair at the crease.  S. Johns (44), despite being dropped three times (including a couple of dollies) during this period managed to secure an unlikely victory for Liss with 3 balls to spare.

 

Date : Sat. May 28th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Crown Taverners Venue : Crown Taverners
 

Littleton won the toss and decided to bat on a pitch that proved to be very lively from one end.  Having been reduced to 26-3, Rob Jackson started to play an anchor role.  Paul Anscombe (30) and Phil Cook with a hard hitting jug avoiding 49 pushed the score along well.  Steve Fenner (36no) then dispatched the ball to all parts, while at the other end Jackson completed his role in style for a well deserved unbeaten 60. The innings closed on 213-5.

In reply Crown Taverners lost both openers cheaply to Cook and Mark Dibben (11-1-26-2), and the hosts seemed to be struggling at 38-3. However some powerful middle order hitting from S. Panda (38) and K. Polaki (36) placed the home side back in the game. Key wickets from Nigel Dibben (1-39) and Anscombe (2-48) then put the game back in Littletons favour. Cook took two late wickets to leave himself with 4-45 and the team victory by 38 runs, as Crown finished on 175-9 from their alloted overs. This victory ensured the team remained unbeaten during the first month of the seasonSpecial mention of thanks to the Silver Fox for umpiring.

Champagne Moment : TBA

Dick of the Day : TBA

Fines TBA : Nigel Dibben - , Pete Bayless - , Phil Cook - , Paul Anscombe - , Alan Zanetti - , Rob Jackson - , Dave Guy - , Pete Arculus - , Steve Fenner - , Mark Dibben - , Ben Robbins - . 

Date : Sat. May 28th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Rowledge III Venue : Littleton

Yet another weekend off, again nowt to do with the weather.  Rowledge III were unable to raise a side.

 

Date : Sat. May 21st 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : East Woodhay Venue : East Woodhay

Due to the severe rain storms, the game was called off by 11am. 

Champagne Moment : N/A

Dick of the Day : N/A

Fines : N/A. 

Date : Sat. May 21st 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Ferguson Academy Venue : Littleton

A weekend off, but not due to the rain.  The Ferguson Academy were unable to raise a side and the game was called off on the Thursday

 

Date : Sat. May 14th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : Hungerford II Venue : Littleton
 

Batting first, the Littleton top order made batting look difficult against what did not appear to be demanding bowling.  Rob Jackson and Phil Cook both made 19, but at 88-5, and Houghton having taken 3-35, Steve Fenner joined Paul Anscombe.  The game completely changed. Fours and sixes abounded and runs piled on at 8 an over, both batmen being ruthless on the bowlers.  Anscombe reached his 50, then launched a blistering attack (hogging the strike) to complete his century (102no) with an over to spare.  Fenner played a superb supporting role finishing on 45no.  This unbroken stand of 134 saw Littleton to 222-5.

In reply Hungerford struggled early on especially after Anscombe took the ball and decided it was a one man team.  His 4-54 destroyed the middle order, but Hungerford then fought back.  Westbrook (77) and Cunningham (41) looked as if they could force a close finish, but after their demise, Phil Cook (3-41) and Mark Dibben (2-51) wrapped up the victory leaving Hungerford on 189 all out. 

Champagne Moment : Paul Anscombe (Century and 4 wickets)

Dick of the Day : Nothing worthy of the award

Fines : Nigel Dibben - 10, Andy Walker - 10, Phil Cook - 10, Paul Anscombe - 9(0), Ray Fenner - 4, Rob Jackson - 4, Dave Guy - 5, John Elford - 4, Steve Fenner - 8, Mark Dibben - 5, Ben Robbins - 7. 

Date : Sat. May 14th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Alton IV Venue : Anstey Park
 

On a dubious track, Littleton elected to field, and the decision was justified after superb bowling from Will Lecomber (2-26) reduced Alton to 23-3.

Steve Barrow came on as first change, and despite his initial over going for 11 runs, he then destroyed the middle order, including 3 wickets in one over.  His 6-29, plus 2 wickets from the evergreen Alan Zanetti left Alton all out on 81.
 
In reply, the wicket proved just as difficult for Littleton.  Wickets fell regularly, but top scorer was Derek Dibben (15), eventually saw Littleton home to victory with 3 wickets to spare.  Most unlucky to fall was Ravi, caught at short leg by a chap with a bigger gut than Squirt !

 

Date : Sat. May 7th 2005 Team : 1st Team Opposition : St Cross Symondians III Venue : St Cross

The first match of the season after promotion, and we were looking to make a good impression against one of the top teams.  Batting first, Dave Guy and Nigel Dibben made slow progress against the tight bowling of Keith Edwards and Martin Sanders (9 overs for 10 runs).  With the demise of Guy, Bayless and Jackson, Paul Anscombe(27) put on 50 with Dibben who eventually fell for 63.  Steve Fenner (17no) with his brother Ray (who's first shot of the season was a Fenner cut) took the score to 166-7.  Ryall and Woods took 2 wickets apiece.

In reply, St Cross made a steady start, but the removal of experience players Quick, Boniface and Postle by Mark Dibben and Phil Cook made the game interesting.  Gaster (44) and Fowler (29) then looked to have clinched the game with 30 required from 6 overs with 5 wickets in hand, but the bowlers had different ideas.  After they were removed in quick succession, the tail collapsed with Cook (4-20), Dibben (3-47) and Anscombe 2-33 sealing victory in the last over with St Cross 155 all out.

Champagne Moment : TBA.

Dick of the Day : TBA

Fines : TBA : Nigel Dibben - , Andy Walker - , Phil Cook - , Paul Anscombe - , Ray Fenner - , Rob Jackson - , Dave Guy - , Pete Bayless - , Steve Fenner - , Mark Dibben - , Ben Robbins - . 

Date : Sat. May 7th 2005 Team : 2nd Team Opposition : Petersfield II Venue : Littleton

How would the 2nds cope with promotion ?  Pretty well it seems.  Batting first, every one got started and made runs.  Ravi Anwar (26), Dick Tanner (23), Alan Zanetti (20) and Pete Arculus coming in down the order finished with 52no leaving a strong total of 192-6.

In reply, Petersfield could not survive the bombardment from Will Lecomber (3-24) and Greg Sullivan (2-21) who destroyed the top order.  Not wanting to miss out, Alan Zanetti then went rabbit hunting and removed the bobtails with 3-11 leaving Petersfield 58 all out.

 

End Of Reports