Fairford 1st XI show much resolve despite a defeat (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Fairford 1st XI show much resolve despite a defeat

FAIRFORD CC 1st XI fell to a fractious 52-run loss on Saturday against runaway league leaders Tewkesbury.

They did, however, give their much vaunted opponents quite a few scares and, ultimately, refused to be beaten as soundly as most of the opponents of the home side.

Bowling first on a helpful wicket, Bird was unfortunate not to take more than a single wicket as he troubled the batsmen throughout his miserly 12-over spell.

Having restricted their hosts for much of their innings, it was ultimately the spilling of three chances that allowed some lusty hitting that enabled Tewkesbury to reach 186.

In reply, Fairford faced the league's most formidable bowling attack in Irwin, a New Zealand fast bowler who had destroyed all before him to date.

Soon Fairford were reduced to 22-3, Leadbetter, Brothers and Lee Clark falling to the swing of Eckersley.

Only Gray provided early resistance and the opening continued to mix graft and stroke play in reaching 48.

His and the earlier loss of Newport reduced Fairford to 78-5 and the need to set a batting target other than outright win was now the main objective.

A cameo from Greener, who fell when looking set for an explosive innings, was immediately followed by Peyman.

Townsend struck a couple of characteristic blows before misjudging the length.

It was left to Graham Clarke and Moreing to secure a further batting point and ensure no further loss of wickets, despite the best and worst efforts of the home side.

Fairford, having competed all day, need to maintain the standard of their play shown at Tewkesbury against lesser opponents to ensure league survival.