THERE was a bright start to life for Droitwich in Worcestershire County League Division Two but the weather deprived them of a deserved victory at newly-promoted Kempsey.
Chasing Spa’s total of 223, the showers curtailed the home side’s reply to 42 overs as their last pair clung on for three overs to save the draw.
Star of the day was 15-year-old Matt Gurr who followed up his maiden first team half-century with two wickets.
He belied his years with an extremely mature batting performance after Droitwich’s middle order spluttered following an excellent opening partnership of 74 between Martyn Davies (20) and Jez Hanson (45).
Gurr finished 53 not out as Spa were dismissed in the final over with Adam Baker claiming 4-71 for Kempsey.
The youngster then took the new ball and duly accounted for the first two wickets to fall – the first to a very smart legside catch by keeper Jay De Costa.
Despite a rusty opening burst, Phil Thomas hit a superb rhythm from the other end and bowled an excellent 14-over spell which was wicketless but cost just 20 runs.
He combined with the spin of Davies (4-40) to strangle the reply as Kempsey eventually held out on 114-9.
Following their promotion to Division One Second XI, the Seconds suffered a heavy 132-run defeat at home to Harborne.
Dave Stephens took an impressive 7-41 from 17 overs as the visitors recovered from 30-4 to post 200-9.
In reply Spa never recovered from 35-6 and were eventually all out for 68.
On Saturday the Firsts welcome Old Vigornians to St Peter’s Fields, the Seconds travel to Cookley and the Thirds open up their Division Five programme against Pershore.
