Middleton Stoney 24 July 2024

Manager Greg Pearson

Won by 1 Run

SOA 106 for 5 (George Setterfield 32*, Phil Tustian 22)

Middleton Stoney 105 for 7 (C Pearson 2 for 15, Shana Olivier 2-29)

In the beautiful surroundings of Middleton Park, a cricket match unfolded that was as whimsical as it was intense. The SOA, a team as diverse as the characters in a Dickens novel, boasted pairs aplenty: two Simpsons, two Pearsons, two women of formidable skill, and two Zimbabweans with the finesse of seasoned cricketers.

The SOW, graced by the debut of Shana Olivier, Phil Tustian, Gregor Smith, and Jimmy Simpson, entered the fray with a mix of nerves and excitement. The coin flipped, and fate smiled upon the SOA, who chose to wield the bat first. Yet, as if to add a twist to the plot, the heavens opened, and rain delayed the start, shortening the match to a swift 16:16 duel.

Phil Tustian, with the poise of a maestro, orchestrated a fine innings, followed by a display of power-hitting from Setterfield, Mitchelmore, and Cowley that would've made the Blitz seem a mere sparkler. The Simpsons, steering the ship with the steadiness of seasoned captains, anchored the innings to a respectable 106-5.

The SOW's response was valiant, with the young duo of Smith and Pearson (Charlie) bowling with the precision of Swiss watchmakers, Pearson snagging an early wicket that set the tone. The introduction of spin was like introducing Puck into A Midsummer Night's Dream, as the rate slowed and wickets began to tumble in the chase.  Shana Olivier showing her nerve and keeping the ball above the eyeline of the batsman.  Dipple top scoring for Middleton with a full array of shots around the ground.

As the final act approached, drama heightened with an eventful last over. A facial injury to Pearson (Charlie) brought an unexpected twist, leaving Murray Scott to deliver the remaining four balls. In a finish as tight as AJ’s cycling shorts, SOA triumphed by a solitary run in a match that will be recounted with the same reverence as the tales of Bob Belcher's LBW decisions.

As the sun set, the customary Middleton BBQ sizzled, and beers and soft drinks flowed as the Captain mulled over what he would say to his wife when he returns her only son with a blood covered cricket shirt and broken glasses.