Fairford U15s 87-7

Lechlade U15s 84 all out

FAIRFORD got their season off to a great start with victory over Lechlade in the Cotswold District U15 Cup.

Lechlade, who won the toss and elected to field, took 10 overs to pick up their first wicket, but kept the run rate down as Fairford managed just 32.

The fact that some resolute batting meant Fairford had wickets in hand for the last 10 overs of their innings helped as they were able to attack more freely and build-up a respectable total of 87-7.

Charlie Bailey hit 20, Scott Mounty struck 15 and Matthew Jobling notched 14 not out to record the highest scores.

Lechlade bowled well with Jack Smart, Freddie Merritt and Bradley Wilkins getting a brace of wickets each.

By contrast, Lechlade lost early wickets thanks to the worthy efforts of Jack Carr (3-12), until fine batting by Jake Romanek (25) seemingly wrestled the initiative away from Fairford.

Then leg spinner Aidan Van Der Heiden was introduced to the bowling attack and snapped up four wickets for a meagre nine runs.

Although a valiant effort by Daniel Pearce (18*) made for a tense finish, it was Fairford who held their nerve best and took the spoils in the 19th over.