Last weekend saw yet more exciting cricket in the Second Division. We have already brought you a feature match on the Pembroke derby, in which George Smith's match winning performance gave the Dock a vital win.
Elsewhere Burton brushed aside Lamphey with relative ease. Burton skipper Toby Hayman hit yet another superb century when he made 119 of Burton’s 265-5. A score that was always going to be a tough ask for Lamphey to chase. Jack Davies’ excellent spell of bowling made it impossible for Lamphey to get anywhere near Burton’s total. Davies took 4-8 and bowled four wicket maidens in a row, which must be some sort of record. Although Toby’s innings was excellent, it’s what we’ve come to expect from him recently, he really is one of the best batsmen in the county. Davies’ spell however is with unique and baffling whilst being match winning for his team and for this we have awarded him man of the match for this game. We will spend some time this week trying to research if that has ever been done before in Pembrokeshire.
Johnston were tasked with setting a target when they faced Herbrandston who are flying this season. Summons and Boswell both hit half century’s yet again and impressed whilst Johnston set Herbie 192 to win. A more than decent target however with the form Herbie are in Johnston would have liked perhaps 220/230 to really up the pressure on the chase. Ryan Davies led the chase with a good 50, while Nicholas and Dean John added 37 and 38 respectively. Herbrandston reached their target with five wickets down, and remain top of the division. Johnston however once again showing the quality they possess and look unlikely to be near the relegation battle this season.
A real team batting display meant that Hook set Llechryd 260 to win which is a big ask. Miller (46), Phelps (34) and George James (38) all made good contributions in addition to some more handy 20s from others. Llechryd themselves are more than capable of making big runs, Curran was they key, Hook would have been delighted to dismiss him for 41 as he is a player who can really take the game away from you and quickly. Despite other good knocks of 38 by Kevin Evans and Andrew Davies 26, Hook never looked like losing this one. Callum James bowled well for his team taking 4-25.
The recent set of fixtures proving the second division is super competitive this season and is set to be great viewing. Herbrandston remain top with Burton close behind, Lamphey and Llanrhian occupy to drop zone, however it is tight in the bottom half.