London Colney won this exciting and close-fought match by two runs on the last available ball of the game.

But this was bitterly disappointing for Radlett, whose batsmen threw away a marvellous opportunity provided by some excellent bowling and fielding.

Instead of 30 points for a win, Radlett got three points from this match and will have to play some serious catch-up to be among the promotion places in September.

Haxell won the toss and chose to bowl, which was the positive option. London Colney batted well, but Radlett's bowling and fielding were superb. There was some scintillating ground fielding, and two marvellous catches.

Matt Barrett's running catch in the deep was brilliant, and he created a run out of nothing with a brilliant pick-up and direct hit from deep.

Simon Jackson and Chris Brown opened the bowling and gave nothing away. The pitch was flat and slow, and the outfield damp and slow, so this was never going to be a high scoring affair.

Jackson bowled his heart out through the whole innings, well supported by Hegarty, the Tasmanian left arm spinner, and the wily Zahur Gitay.

With McEwan keeping wicket beautifully in his first game of the season, Haxell's target of 140 was delivered, and Radlett were confident.

While Ingram and Gitay were rattling along the score at nearly five an over, Radlett were almost half way there with one wicket down and an asking rate of two an over.

The batsmen, however, found ways of getting themselves out, and Colney must have thought it was Christmas, as Radlett gift-wrapped 30 points.

Tole took five wickets, but it was Briar who really slowed the run rate. Radlett still only needed four off the last over with two wickets left, but the game should have been won half an hour previously.

Radlett have had several close games in recent weeks, but this game should never have been allowed to get close.

Spectators were left with an awful feeling that this defeat could be the stumbling block on which promotion is decided.

London Colney 143-7

Radlett III 141 all out

Herts League Division Five

June 26, 2002 15:00