Vincent and Hayes star in cup win at Haslingden by Webmaster

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Scorecard:

Haslingden v Ramsbottom

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DateLine: 31st May 2008

 

Ramsbottom moved into the semi-final of the Worsley Cup for the first time in three years when they soundly defeated their local rivals Haslingden at Bentgate, mainly thanks to a 162-run opening partnership between Phill Hayes and Lou Vincent.

 

Winning the toss, Haslingden chose to bat first and throughout their innings made steady progress towards a formidable total of 252 for 9. Skipper Graham Knowles hit 12 fours before being stumped off the bowling of Chris Read and with Rigby and Dearden also amongst the runs, the Ramsbottom bowlers continued to toil. Simon Read, coming on as fifth change, picked up four wickets for just 41 runs with two from the Pro and one each for Haslam, McLean and Chris Read.

 

With a big task ahead, the Ramsbottom openers set about the target with some gusto. Hayes, showing why he is one of the leading amateur batsmen this season and Pro Vincent, continuing the form that has brought him a string of runs in recent matches, had already put the Haslingden bowlers to the sword with their big stand in just 27 overs and when Hayes was first out with the score on 162, heads had started to drop in the home camp.

 

Vincent, who, although dropped on 61, went on to score a magnificent 122 not out, an innings that included 13 fours and one six and with able support from Chris Read (21) and Keith Webb (21 not out), they strolled to victory with 32 balls to spare.

 

The semi-final draw has been made and Ramsbottom will travel to Todmorden on June 29. Accrington will host Burnley in the other semi.

(Article: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author only.
Copyright © 2008 RammyCricket)