CRICKET
SKIPPER Martyn Davies has challenged his Droitwich Spa team to find the application to turn positive performances into wins.
The Spa men were left frustrated after failing to chase down what they felt was an eminently reachable target to lose at Burghill & Tillington by 30 runs in last weekend’s Worcestershire League Division One.
Having dismissed Burghill for 232, Davies felt his side let an advantage slip with a flurry of wickets halted their momentum – and that must be a lesson learned.
“I think we need to show more application at key points in an innings,” said Davies. “Maybe we’re a little naïve in our batting.
“We all like to play positive cricket but sometimes we have to rein ourselves in and look at how to get through tricky periods to rebuild an innings.
“For some of the young lads, it’s a learning curve. But once we get a few wins under our belt, you’ll see a different side.”
Having won the toss and decided to bat, Burghill’s total was based around Ben Owens’ 64, with the wickets being shared by Carl Thomson. Max Young, Jake Young and Jordan Renau, who all took two wickets apiece.
Droitwich’s reply began with a strong foundation through Max Young (31), Paul Bryan (43), Renau (25) and Ash Fearnall (33) but then wickets tumbled regularly and they were all out for 202.
Davies said: “I thought 230 for Burghill was below-par on their pitch. We were happy to chase that score.
“We then gave ourselves a good foundation at 50 without loss but then we lost wickets in bundles. It’s been a common problem for us this season.
“It was disappointing but there were positive signs we can build on.”
One plus for Droitwich will be the return of bowling all-rounder Phil Thomas tomorrow (Saturday) when they entertain Stourport. Thomas was absent last week through family commitments.
“That’s good news to have Phil available; he makes a big difference to us,” added Davies.
It will be the first senior meeting between Droitwich and Stourport, who have charged through the leagues.
“They’ve got a great set-up so it’s no surprise to see how they have progressed,” said Davies.
“They have to be respected but we are confident in our ability to get the win.”
