Sunday 12th September - Kelburne - Neutral (Stirling CCC) - (SNCL Play Off)
Kelburne 180 all out beat PSCC 81 all out by 99 runs.
Kelburne won the toss and elected to bat in this match delayed by 24 hours due to Saturday mornings heavy rain. As usual Hill and Blomfield opened the bowling and there was early success for Strathy as wickets began to fall. Kelburne professional David Harper came to the crease and looked to play his shots. He was the backbone of the innings eventually falling for 70 after being given a life in his forties. With the score on 131-8 Strathy were well on top but the Kelburne tailenders played sensibly and managed to set a target of 181. Blomfield was the pick of the bowlers with 4 wickets in his last game for Strathy before returning to New Zealand. The were also good spells from Patterson and the spin of Haddow. 181 was a very reachable target but there had been a momentum shift with the late runs for Kelburne, and they appeared to be the more upbeat team at the tea interval.
The PSCC innings got off to the worst possible start with openers McKinnie and Fenton removed by McLister, both being given out LBW. Blomfield and Tramontanas dug in, and at this stage, occupation of the crease was the main objective. However the score had reached the thirties when Blomfield was next out, again being adjudged LBW to one that appeared to be sliding down past leg stump. At this point the pressure really was on, and things got no better as in the next over key batsmen Tramontanas was given out, again LBW. The prize at stake, of a National League place, was adding to the tension in the middle, and the umpires had to step in and speak to the skipper of the team from the west as the over exuberant send offs, the batsmen were receiving, began to cross the line a touch.
Regardless of this Stathy were contributing to their own downfall with no batsmen capable of playing for time, and staying at the crease for any length of time. 40-4 soom became 45-7 and the game was all but over. The tail added a few but PSCC were eventually all out for 81, with Kelburne holding on to their National League spot.
There is no denying it has been a disappointing end to the 2010 season for the first team, but as a whole it has been a huge success with the team finishing second in the Premier Division in their first season at this level. Much has been learned from the experience and the team must move onwards and upwards, and look forward to 2011 with renewed amibition and high hopes.
Despite defeat in the play off the team raise a smile, as Hamish (front middle) plays his last game for PSCC and heads back to NZ.
Sunday 5th September - Montrose - away (Division2)
Montrose 247-6 beat PSCC 118 all out by 129 runs
Saturday 4th September - East Kilbride - neutral (Penicuik) - (SNCL Play Off)
PSCC 147 all out lost to East Kilbride 151-3 by 7 wickets.
With a coach booked and the team travelling in style there was a buzz about what was probably the biggest game in the club's long history. On arrival the pitch was the first surprise, it was fairly dry, bare and showing signs of cracking, not a common site in the Strathmore Union. Stav won the toss and elected to bat. Things didn't get off to a great start as Gordy fell caught behind for 1, but Marcus and Stav steadied things well and the board began to tick over. Stav in particular was seeing it well, and finding the boundary with regularity. When Marcus was bowled Davie P played second fiddle to Stav as the basis of what looked to be a solid total was set. After the fielding restrictions were lifted, the side from the Western Union introduced spin at both ends. The run rate was strangled and when Stav fell for 54 the score was 105-4 at the 30 over mark. The games was nicely poised but the spin of Alum in particular gave the bastmen nothing loose to hit, and wickets began to fall regulalry with Strathy finally all out for 147 in a dissapointing effort.
With the pitch showing signs of deteriorating the game was still there to be won, and Hilly struck early removing Richardson thanks to a fine catch from Hamish. Alum and Kampman dropped anchor, and after 12 overs the scoreboard was pretty much redundant. Alum then chanced his arm charging Hilly and hitting 5 consecutive fours. The momentum appeared to have shifted but in the next over Kampman called for a suicidal single and Alum was run out, after fine work from Tony. Hamish came back into the attack and removed the prolific Khalid for duck, and at 58-3 the game was well poised again. Skipper Saeed then joined Kampman and the pair played sensibly taking the total into three figures and the game was slipping away. The target was reached with no further wickets falling, and on the day East Kilbride were deserved winners, and Strathy must re-group and look towards next week's game with Kelburne. Everyone at PSCC wishes East Kilbride all the best for their first season in the SNCL, with the hope that their may still be a chance of a re-match next season.
Saturday 28th August - Mannofield - home (Premier Division)
PSCC 187-8 beat Mannofield 109 all out by 78 runs
After an anxious wait all week with conflicting weather reports, a fine sunny afternoon greeted the teams at Doo'Cot Park. McKinnie and Fenton strode to the wicket to open the PSCC innings against the newly crowned league champions. With Mannofield winning the league, they are ineligible for promotion to the SNCL play offs, so 2nd place was an equally vaulable prize for the home team. The innings got off to a decnt start but once again none of the batsmen built on decent starts. That was until David Patton put together a well crafted 41. Blomfield (12), Kirkman (21) and Patterson (28*) all weighed in with decent contributions down the order to get the score to a respectable 187-8 on a soft pitch.
The tension was building during the tea interval with the home bowling attack knowing the pressure was on to perform. Some of this pressure was released immediately as Hill and Blomfield each took a wicket in their first over. Dellaquaglia (2-17) and Patterson (3-17) took over from Hill and Blomfield and the result was rarely in doubt. Van Oorshot batting at nine hit a defiant 33 not out for the away side but ran out of partners at 109 all out in the 39th over.
Currently it seems we will play East Kilbride next Saturday for a place in the SNCL at Penicuik, although we hope to confirm this in the next day or so. The losers from this match will then play Kelburne the following week in a second chance at securing a spot.
Saturday 21st August - Dundee HSFP's - home (Premier Division)
PSCC 167 all out lost to Dundee HSFP 171-7 by 3 wickets
Batting first Strathy got off to a reasonable start with openers McKinnie and Fenton both reaching double figures. However as in previous weeks none of the frontline batsmen, with the exception of Tramontanas (40), capitalised on a good start. All top 6 batsmen reached the teens but not since the home game with Dundee High on 19th June has any batsmen gone past 50, which has been a significant factor in the latter part of the season.
The introduction of Landwehr and Milne into the home attack provided immediate success as both openers fell and the run rate dropped. Wickets again fell at regular intervals with no partnership ever really seizing control of the game. PSCC were all out for 167 in the 44th over.
The home side got off to a poor start as Bayne was bowled by Hill. Fellow opener Kevin Ancell, often the scourge of the Strathy attack in recent seasons was joined by Nadir and the partnership that ensued was of the nature the away team have been lacking in recent weeks. Ancell put together a solid 69 and Nadir supported well with 35. A wobble in mid innings from the home side, gave Strathy hope as Hill, Marsh and Blomfield picked up further wickets, but Landwehr with 22 not out steered Dundee home with 14 balls to spare.
With Mannofield not playing they secured the league title, but with the newly crowned champions visiting Doo'Cot Park on the final day of the league season, a win for Strathy can still secure an SNCL play off spot.
Sunday 15th August - Arbroath United XI - away (Division 2)
PSCC 132 all out lost to AUCC XI 135-3 by 7 wickets
The seconds got off to a poor start in this, always enjoyable fixture (and tea), when Marcus Fention failed to re-produce his recent form and was bowled for a duck early on. Things did not improve as Mearns, McKinnie and Hussain followed for 2, 4 and 0 respectively. Fortunately Richard Kirkman who also opened the innings was in more of a mood to hang around, eventually falling for 40. Richie finally found some support lower down the order from Andy Litster, Darshan. Jimmit and Scott McKenzie who all registered double figures. As final batsmen Stewart 'Faither' McKenzie strolled to the middle, the Arbroath tea lady could be heard asking when to bring the urn to the boil? Locals who were aware of Faither's prowess with the willow, informed her that now was a good time. Sure enough Stewart returned for his half time cuppa in double quick time, but only as he ran out of support and was stranded on 3 not out.
After the break Arbroath always looked in control as openers Swan (37 and Plomer (14) gave their run chase a solid base and then Bridges (33) took them to the brink of victory. The target was reached with 3 wickets down, to round off a difficult weekend for the PSCC XI. A couple of wins from the remaining games are looking neccessary if Division 2 status is to be retained.
Saturday 14th August - Forthill - home (Premier Division)
PSCC 171-6 lost to Forthill 172-4 by 6 wickets.
A fine sunny day at Doo'Cot Park, and Strathy found themsleves batting first, against a Forthill side who threatened with relegation fielded a stronger than normal team, including a couple of players with regular SNCL experience in the Forfarshire first team. On the day previous to the game it was noted that former Scotland Captain Ryan Watson had been listed on the away side's website, as lining up in their second team, an indication of the Brought Ferry men's need for 25 points? Fortunately common sense prevailed and Watson played against Greenock in the SNCL.
Despite the added strength of the visitors the innings moved on steadily to 100-2, with McKinnie and Tramontanas, both out for 31, laying a good foundation. Withe exception of Hussain (23) and Hill (28*), no one esle really got going and the innings stalled somewhat ending on 171-6. The general feeling amongst the home team at the break was that a score of 200+ should have been posted.
An early breakthrough was a must and this cam about as Blomfield accounted for Yellowlees. Moments later 12-1, appeared to be 12-2 as Garden, an SNCL regular and experienced bat, edged a seeming delivery from Hill through to McKenzie for a routine catch. A regular wicket if there ever was such a thing and it was with some dismay that the home team watched the batsmen stand his ground, such was the severity of the very thick edge. Surely though it would be a formality for the umpire to confirm the dismissal. Dismay truned to shock as the umpire refused to raise his finger and the batsmen stayed put.
It was such a loud noise that at the same moment a golfer at nearby Murrayshall glance behind think his clubs must have fallen off his trolley, during the aftre match vsist to the Scone Arms the barman revealed he had looked over his sholder thinking a tray had fallen on to the floor, and at the top of Kinnoull Hill a walker checked his rucksack thinking his small stove and provisions must have fallen out. In the local press the following day it was reported that a local amatuer seismologist, had called the International News Agency in a panic, as after seeing his needle go crazy on his hi-tec equipment, he feared a tsunami had been triggered on the River Tay by an eruption of biblical proportions, in the Bridgend area of Perth, and was racing towards Dundee. Sadly this was not the case.
When the umpire was questioned why he had not given the batsmen out, by the assembled throng of PSCC players surround Hilly on congratulatory fashion, he said he hadn't heard anything. When it was suggested that he must have a substantial body of some sort lodged within his ears, not to have heard such a loud sound of leather on willow, a rather unfortuante verbal ding dong ensued.
Umpiring your own teams innings can be difficult and comes with enough pressures, without being added to by the refusal of some batsmen to walk, putting their own colleagues under more strain. Unfortuantely this has been a common feature of this season. In the higher leagues of the SNCL neutral umpire are almost always present and some players opt to let umpires make all the decisions, rather than walk when they know they are out. This doesn't sit well with the MCC's pre-amble to the laws of the game, the Spirit of Cricket and hopefully this will not become a regular feature within the Union.
Once things settled down the opening bowlers kept a tight reign on things with the score on 14-1 after the first 10 overs. Garden capitalised on his 'life' but was bowled by Patterson for 25 with the score at 60-2. The Forthill middle order played solidly as Cannon (63) and Martin (32*) moved beyone the 100 mark with no more wickets falling, and the away team were in full control at this point. Blomfield returned to the attack to take two further wickets, that of Cannon and McAndles for a duck, but Forthill were comfortable at this point and reached the target with 5 overs and 6 wickets to spare.
A dissapointing outcome for Strathy, and dissapointing that the above incident over shadowed some good cricket, but the team must pick themselves up with two more matches to play, and the possibility of the league title and an SNCL playoff spot, still in their grasp.
* The editor is delighted to see the popularity of the PSCC website at Forfarshire CC, where we appear to have many followers, well at least one. Forthill XI's Sunday match reports always make for an enjoyable read, and perhaps their Saturday XI will now follow suit, having been stirred into action this weekend.
Saturday 14th August - Mayfield - away (Division 2)
Mayfield 254-3 beat PSCC XI 136-8 by 118 runs
Mayfield batted first in this Perth 'derby' with exprienced openers Ferguson and Berry putting on 91 for the first wicket. When Berry fell LBW to Callum Laing, he was replaced by another experienced bat in Scott Barnsley. Runs continued to flow against an inexperienced and depleted PSCC attack as Ferguson eventually fell for 100 LBW to Jamin and Barnsley ended on 73 not out. The innings closed on 254-3.
As the PSCC innings got under way there was an unusual occurrence when the entire Mayfield team appealed for an edge, in between balls, only to then realise the sound of the nick came from the other Doo'cot Park pitch, such were the decibel levels of this meaty sound.(see match report above).
The PSCC innings started very differently to the Mayfield effort earlier in the day as Young, Ali, and Jimmit all departed early on. Callum Laing and U-13 player William Dallas, then played steadily, with Laing picking off the bad balls with some string hitting and Dallas playing sensibly. The latter eventually holed out for 13, but had stayed long enough to help his more senior partner, ensure there was respectability in the PSCC reply. Laing finally fell for 53, and with Darshan hitting 17 not out lower in the order the innings closed on 136-8 and a deserved win for Mayfield.
Sunday 8th August - Glendelvine - home (Division 2)
PSCC XI 186-5 lost to Glendelvine 188-8 by 2 wickets
The second team had their first match in three weeks last Sunday but lost narrowly by two wickets to Glendelvine at Doo’cot Park. The home side were asked to bat first and didn’t get off to the best start when Fenton was bowled with 7 on the board. A steady stand of 50 between Richard Kirkman (28) and Fraser Mearns got the hosts back on track but when both were removed by Steven Tait, Strathy were looking shaky at 69-4. The visiting bowlers put a brake on the scoring rate and with ten overs left, Strathy’s total of 104-4 didn’t look threatening. However with support from Callum Mearns (32) in a fifth wicket stand of 98, Asif Hussain eventually got a greater share of the strike to accelerate the scoring rate. By the end of their 45 overs, his unbeaten knock of 85 was influential in the hosts reaching 186-5 with Tait returning credible figures of 3-25 from nine overs.
Hampered by the non appearance of a player, Strathearn looked for an early breakthrough but were thwarted by the Glendelvine openers Rob Thomson & Mike Yellowlees as they comforatably moved to 37 after 10 overs. However both went in consecutive overs with the latter’s wicket a prized scalp. However Grant Stanley attacked with vigour and he hit a succession of boundaries to take the initiative for the visitors. His knock of 54 contained ten fours but his dismissal at 129-5 gave the hosts a boost. However Steven Tait (48) took over the scoring mantle and he helped guide the visitors towards the winning post before falling with only eight runs required at 179-7. Another wicket fell soon after but Glendelvine reached their target with two wickets and two overs to spare. Asif Hussain’s return of 3-36 proved in vain.
Match ScorecardSaturday 7th August - Rossie Priory - away (Premier Division)
Rossie Priory 121 all out lost to PSCC 122-5 by 5 wickets
Winning the toss was always going to be crucial, and there was relief all round when stand-in skipper McKinnie did just that. The pitch was soft after the recent damp weather and the home team struggled throughout, with Blomfield (3-5) and Kirkman (2-12) the pick of the bowlers. Rossie were eventually all out for 121 in the penultimate over.
The PSCC reply got off to a poor start with McKinne falling for a duck in the opening over. After this though 32 from Blomefield, 31 not out from Hill and 22 from Fowad got the innings back on track, and the target was reached with 5 wickets in hand and five overs to spare.
A much needed win for the first team, the first in the league since 19th June, after some recent abandonments and three defeats on the spin. The result leaves the team well placed in the pursuit of Mannofield at the top of the Premier Division.
Monday 2nd August - Aberdeen Grades XI (3 Counties Final)
Aberdeen Grades 144-8 beat PSCC 99 all out by 45 runs
The Grades XI batted first and got off to a solid start with both openers scoring freely. The introduction of Patterson and Kirkman stemmed the scoring rate as well a picking up 3 much needed wickets. At 50-4 the Aberdeen innings was in a bit of difficulty, but Barrett and Win in the middle order batted well and with additions from the tail, the innings closed on 144-8. A challenging target which was probably 20-25 more than Strathy had hoped to be chasing.
With the exception of Hussain, Ali and Hill, none of the PSCC batsmen really got going, and the innings closed on 99, with victory deservedly going to the Grades Select team. It was unfortunate that the final fell on an evening when 5 or 6 first team regulars were unavailable, but there could be no argument about the result on the night, however it was a great achievement to reach the final of the Strathmore Unions' premier cup competition.
Tuesday 20th July - Forthill (3 Counties Cup Semi Final)
PSCC 109 all out beat Forthill 69 all out by 40 runs
Batting first Strathy struggled throughout the innings, with the tone set early on with the run out of stand-in skipper McKinnie. The team appeared desperate to set a total of 150 plus on what was a tricky pitch after the recent damp weather. In reality a total of 125 was probably a par score, but with too many big shots played, only Fowad and Marcus look likley to help the team reach this target. With a dissapointing score of 109 on the board the PSCC bowlers were up against it in defending such a low target.
Forthill dangerman Yellowlees was dropped early on and this looked to be crucial as the Broughty Ferry men eased to 32 without loss. Yellowlees then inexplicably played across a Patterson straight one and was clean bowled. Panic seemed to set in and in the blink of an eye, Forthill found themselves at 37-6, a combination of a run out, a great catch from Fowad, and some excellent bowling from Haddow (4-14) and Patterson (3-13), had done the damage. This soon became 47-8, and despite numbers 9 and 10 putting on 20, Kirkman and Hill picked up a wicket each to wrap up victory with 3 overs to spare.
A great achievement to reach the final of the Union's premier cup competition in the clubs first season at this level.
Saturday 17th July - Strathmore - Away (Premier Division)
PSCC 133 all out lost to Strathmore 136-6 by 4 wickets.
Sunday 18th July - Brechin - Home (Division 2)
Brechin 155 all out, lost to PSCC XI 156-1 by 9 wickets.
A dry breezy day at Doo'Cot and the seconds were looking to make it two from two against Brechin. The visitors batted first and Kirkman and Murphie opened the bowling and made immediate in roads. Walker batting at 3 for the Angus team, offered the only real resistance eventually falling to Kirkman for 72. Wickets fell regulalry around him and Hussain chipped in with 3 wickets later in the innings, which eventually closed on 155.
Marcus Fenton and Kirkman opened the innings after tea, and looked very solid until Fenton was out for 29. A good kncok to follow up last weeks 48. Simon Edwards (aka Lord Lucan, Shergar, Willo the Wisp etc) re-appeared at number 3 and set about making up for lost time, as he and Kirkman moved serenly towards the victory target. Simon finished on 25* and Richard on 78* as the win was secured by 9 wickets in little over 30 overs.
Sunday 11th July - Rossie Priory XI - Away (Divison 2)
PSCC XI 110 all out beat Rossie Priory XI 93 all out by 17 runs.
With only 8 men in the line up the second team did really well to come out on top, against local Inchture rivals Rossie Priory. Batting first it was thanks mainly to the partnership between Marcus Fenton and Richard Kirkman that the score of 110 was eventually posted, Marcus top scoring with 48.
In reply Rossie struggled throughout with Kirkman and Fraser Mearns the main destroyers with 4 wickets a piece. Dissapointing to go into a game so under strength, but a much needed win for the 2's keeping them in the safety zone in Division 2.
Saturday 3rd July - Arbroath United - Away - (Premier Division)
PSCC 118 all out lost to AUCC 122-6 by 4 wickets.
A bad day at the office for the first team, with defeat to Premier Division strugglers Arbroath. Batting first, none of the Perth batsmen got going and once again wickets fell at regular intervals, with some of the guys surrendering their wicket fairly cheaply. Only Fraser (28) and Haddy (22) managed to put a meaningful partnership together, but at 71-7 the innings was on the rocks. A bright and breezy 22 from Richie managed to get us up to a final total of 118. The was dissapointing against an inexperienced Arbroath team for who youth players Fleming (3-7) and Sim (3-30) made the most of things and led the attack well.
The mood was brightened at the tea interval as the legendary Arbroath teas not only lived up to expectation, but went far beyond. The sight of a whole salmon and boiled new potatoes, quickly despatched memories of last weeks forgettable hospitality.
Perked up by feed with the nutritional value most of the team don't experinece in a whole week, the bowlers were keen to make their mark on the match, and things were looking good with a couple of early wickets in the bag. However Gove (48*) and Hurst (31) settled the nerves for the home side and theye ventually reached the target with 6 wickets down.
Stav and the team could only reflect on what might have been had we managed to put another 30 or 40 runs on the board. The team retired to the bar to enjoy more of the excellent local hospitality, an aspect of Premier Division cricket that seems to be lacking at some clubs in the Premier Division. With the higher standard of cricket, the games can be intense and hard fought, but it is always healthy to enjoy a drink and a chat with the opposition afterwards, with any disagreements left on the field of play, where they belong. Hopefully this will improve in the second half of the campaign.
Saturday 26th June - Mannofield - Away (Premier Division)
PSCC 191-9 lost to Mannofield 193-6 by 4 wickets
A frosty reception awaited the team as they arrived in the granite city, the home team obviously wary of the Premier Division newcomers who has so far swept all before them. Batting first the make shift opening pair of Hill and McKinnie put on over 50 for the first wicket. Once wickets started to fall, they fell at regular intervals, and a score of 191-9 was posted. There were steady contributions throughout with no-one really making the most of their time at the crease, with steady bowling from the current champions, as would be expected. The less than friendly welcome from the home side was unfortunate, however the match official was also less than welcoming as he proceeded to warn McKinnie for running on the wicket, and then seemingly extended this warning to the remainder of the team, an unusual occurence considering this hadn't been an issue once in the season to date, for any PSCC batsmen, or in any recent season for that matter! To be fair, Gordy is just glad to be still running, whether its on the wicket or not!
Tea came and went and the Mannofield openers started their innings in aggressive fashion. The scoreboard rattled along, with the normally frugal Hill and Blomfield suffering for the first time this season. A sharp chance was spurned at second slip early on which may have changed the momentum. The score passed 100 inside 15 overs, and Mannofield were cruising. Patterson was introduced to the attack and he and Graham Haddow had early success, as the visitors began to slow the rate. Despite going on to take 6 wickets it was all in vain as the target was reached at 193-6. A first loss of the season but it was an encouraging fightback against a strong side. The team headed to the bar to enjoy a well earned beer with the opposition to debate what was a hard fought game, only to discover the earlier frost had still to thaw, as the home team had all headed home, without a word. Taking into account some of the batsmen's footwear it is possible they had a gig at a 70's Dance Tribute Night, down in the city.
All in all though dissapointing hospitality from one of Scotland's biggest, and well thought of clubs.
Thursday 24th June - Breadalbane - Home (3 Counties Cup)
PSCC 155-7 beat Breadalbane 138-6 by 19 runs
Sunday 20th June - Glendelvine - Away (Division 2)
PSCC XI 164-3 lost to Glendelvine 165-1 by 9 wickets
A numerically depleted Strathearn XI were soundly beaten by Glendelvine by nine wickets at Spittalfield. Gratefully accepting the opportunity to bat first, Strathy used their time wisely at the wicket and carefully accumulated runs against the tidy home attack. Gordon McKinnie maintained his form with a dogged 43 whist Olly Middlemiss made a pleasant 51 before being the final wicket to fall as the visitors made a respectable 164-3. Unfortunately, as well as being short of numbers, Strathy were also short of bowlers and this made defending their score almost impossible. Michael Yellowlees(85n/o) and Robert Thomson (45) took full advantage as the threadbare attack was flayed to all parts to pass the target after only 17 overs and get the players home in time for their Sunday dinner.
Saturday 19th June - Dundee HSFP's - Home (Premier Division)
PSCC 292-3 beat Dundee HSFP's 101 all out by 191 runs.
Hearts sank as yet another toss was lost, but the top order (and the bowlers more to the point) were delighted when they were asked to bat by the FP's, on the warmest Saturday of the year to date. Openers McKinnie and Patton were in no mood to pass up the opportunity and runs flowed at a steady rate as the opening stand reached the hundered mark, despite a couple of missed chances by the visitors. McKinnie was eventually out for 52 and Tramontanas came to the crease with a great platform of 160 on the board. The skipper made the most of the attacking postion and played a shot a ball as his fifty came up in 30 balls. Patton edged towards his hundered, making the most of another couple of lives, and score approached the 250 mark. Patton finally fell to Nadir for 101, with the same bowler accounting for Tramontanas for a rapid 89. The final score was a mammoth 292-3 leaving the FP's weary and shell shocked.
As is often the case in these situations, chasing big scores, the visitors struggled throughout. Hill and Blomfield were again economical at the start, and the top four were all back in the hutch scoring 23 between them. Landwehr and Bayne offered brief resistance, but Oswald with 4-17 mopped up the tail as the FP's were all out for 101 in the 34th over.
A big game at Mannofield next week, with the champions losing to Stoneywood Dyce this weekend, leaving PSCC top of the Premier Division.
Saturday 12th June - Forthill - Away (Premier Division)
Forthill 186-8 lost to PSCC 187-3 by 7 wickets
Bowling first Strathy got off to a good start with the reliable Hill and Blomfield sharing the new ball. Yellowlees opening the batting for Forthill played some expansive shots, as Blomefield removed the other opener Findlay for 9. Yellowlees then fell to Hill for 22, and when each bowler claimed a further wicket, the home team were in trouble at four down and barely 60 on the board. McCandless and Wallace steadied things as they took the score beyond 120 before the latter fell to Haddow, caught and bowled for 33. McCandless (48) received further support from Singh and Cameron as Forthill finished their 45 overs, on 186-8.
Once again openers Mearns (24) and McKinnie (36) managed to take the PSCC score past 50 before the first wicket fell. Tramontanas then came in and took the game away from the home side blasting a quickfire 45, before being caught with the score on 122-3. Time was on Strathy's side and Hill (37*) and Patton (22*) esnured the total was reached with 8 overs to spare in a comfortable win.
Another good bowling performance, and a much improved batting display as PSCC continued their unbeaten start to the season.
Sunday 6th June - Arbroath United XI - Home (Division 2)
Arbroath United XI 154 all out, PSCC XI 53-2 (19 overs) - Match Abandoned due to rain.
A frustrating afternoon came to and end when a good finish was in prospect. Richie and Olly were both 22 not out and well set, when it became too wet to carry on. Earlier in the afternoon the highlight was 5-21 from 9 overs by occassional bowler Andy Fennell. The men from Arbroath may be famed for their smokies, but here they showed they are also unable to resist the odd pie when its on offer !!
Saturday 5th June - Rossie Priory - Home (Premier Division)
PSCC 196-9 beat Rossie Priory 192-8 by 4 runs
Stav kept up his 100% record at the toss by losing yet another, and again PSCC were asked to bat first on a greenish wicket. The wicket however was firmer than it had first appeared and openers, Gordy and Fraser enjoyed the added pace as the innings got off to a steady start passing 50 without loss. Not long after this both openers departed for 20 and 29 respectively, and they were soon joined back in the dressing room by Stav and Haddy. This left Hilly and Hamish with a rebuilding job on their hands, as once again the innings faltered at the half way stage. Runs did start to flow as the middle order (Hilly 50, Hamish 22 and Richie 31) helped set a challenging target for the visitors form Inchture. The innings closed on 196-9 with G Lynch and Turner taking 3 wickets apeice.
Rossie's innings was restricted at the start with some tight bowling again from Hilly and Hamish. Hamish has spent his first 5 weeks in Scotland with eight layers on, after arriving form New Zealand, but got all excited at the appareance of the sun and slapped on enough factor 50 to the make Adam Ant proud. After that fine opening spell, but with no rewards, Ossi replaced Hamish at the road end, and soon removed opener A Lynch with a waist high full toss, which was pulled straight to Ivor at short fine leg. Stevens and McAlpine then moved the score on steadily until Hamish returned to the attack to remove McAlpine and Ivor accounted for Stevens. Wickets began to fall more regulalry but the visitors were still on track to reach the target, but when the eighth wicket fell the game looked to be Strathy's. Lauder and G Lynch however had other ideas and took the game to the final over which was bowled by Richard Kirkman. Despite a couple of wides, Richie kept a good full length and PSCC eventually scraped home by 4 runs. A great game from the two newly promoted sides, who are both proving they can compete at this level.
Saturday 29th May - Stoneywood Dyce - Home (Premier Division)
PSCC 176-9 beat Stoneywood Dyce 146-8 by 30 runs
Once again we found ourselves batting first on a slow low pitch that had a bit of added spice from some heavy morning rain. After an early loss skipper Tramo found himself at the crease sooner than he would have liked, but soon begain the find his form. The innings started to take shape and it was dominated by the skipper as the score reached 100 with only two wickets down and plenty of overs in hand. However in true Strathy style it was a rollercoaster afternoon and the healthy situation soon became a very unhealthy 129-8. After Tramontanas departed for 89 several batsmen came and went, some quicker than others! Hamish Blomfield with 31* managed to hold things together as the tail wagged and a score of 176-9 was eventually posted.
Whilst not a bad score, it was dissapointing after such good foundations were laid earlier in the afternoon. The Aberdonians reply was steady if not spectacular, with Wattie playing the anchor role. Despite being well set halfway through the innings, some tight bowling from Patterson and Delaquaglia in the middle section meant they scoring rate was awlays behind what was required. Richard Kirkman weighed in with 3-43, with Wattie out in the penultimate over as the innings closed 30 runs shy of the target. Another fine win as the season continues to exceed expectations, with a local derby with Rossie Priory to come this weekend.
Sunday 16th May - Rossie Priory XI - Away - (Division 2)
PSCC XI 168-9 lost to Rossie Priory XI 169-6 by 4 wickets
The second XI made the short trip to Inchture to play Rossie Priory in the second division. Batting first the visitors got off the worst possible start as Fawad was coaught off the bowling of Robertson without scoring. However this brought the experienced Andy Fennell to the crease to join Fraser Mearns. Runs started to flow as the pair took the score comfortably past 50 to set the lower order up for a late onslaught on the bowling attack. However after Fennell (39) and Mearns (62) both departed to the bolwing of Stephens (4-25) only young Paul Collins batting at number 9 was able to make double figures, as extras were third top scorer with 37. The final total of 168-9 was a decent total, although it was again a case of what might have been. The Rossie reply always had a steady tempo with all top 5 batsmen making double figures, with Stephens (38) and Saed (30) making the main contributions. Fraser Mearns bowled a tidy spell taking 2-19 off 9 overs, and was the pick of the home attack. The score reached 169-6 in the 39th over as Strathy were left to rue the lack of runs on the board and some loose bowling during the visitors innings.
Saturday 15th May - Strathmore - Home (Premier Division)
PSCC 144-7 bt Strathmore 64 by 80 runs
At last a relatively warm and sunny day at Doo'Cot Park, as the first team took on Strathmore. Batting first the hosts once again got off to a sticky start, on a low slow pitch. Of the top six only Tramontanas got a start, as he made his way to 19 before being caught. With 6 men back in the pavillion and barely 60 on the board it was looking like a tough afternoon for the Perth team. Richard Kirkman (20) in his first start of the season, and John McKenzie (27) started the familiar mid innings rebuilding work,as those looking on, realised that anything over 130 could be a competitive total. Further wickets fell but last pair, Laing and Patterson saw the total up to a fighting 144-7 before the tea interval.
As the visitors from Forfar began their reply it wasn't too long before the target of 145 was looking like a fairly challenging one. Opening bowlers Hill and Blomefield once again achieved quick success, with three of the top order removed in the first handful of overs. Sayers (13) and his skipper Milne (20) briefly got the innings moving in the right direction before the change bowlers Patterson and Oswald accounted for the pair. From this point the Strathmore innings petered out with nearly 20 overs unused as they finished on 64 all out. Once again all the bowlers performed well with Blomfield (3-19) and Patterson (3-10) the chief wicketakers.
All in all, an impressive win for Strathy, and the good start to the season continues, but once again the top order batting faltered, albeit on a bowler friendly wicket. Next week the team face the long trip north to Huntly and the batsmen will be keen make the most of some drier warmer weather.
Thursday 13th May - Glenrothes - Away (National Murgitroyd 20/20)
Glenrothes 112-3 lost to PSCC 117-3 by 7 wickets
In the opening round of the National 20/20 competition, Glenrothes won the toss and chose to bat on what was a dark and murky night, which led to both captains agreeing a 15 over match would be wise, to ensure a finish. The home side got off to a slow start, with some tight Strathy bowling from Hill and Blomfield. After 6 overs they had stuttered to 15-2. However the wet ball and some shortish boundaries made things tricky for the bowlers all evening, and Lewis (45) and Wardle (33*) made the most off it as the run rate soared. The innings eventually finished on 112-3 from the allotted 15 overs. McKinnie and 'pinch hitter' Oswald opened the reply, and things were not going to plan when Oswald (8) was out in the 3rd over. Skipper Tramontanas joined McKinnie and the pair set about the Glenrothes attack, and when McKinnie fell for 21 the scoreboard had raced on to 81-2. Graeme Haddow then batted sensibly to finish unbeaten on 15, as Tramontanas fell for a well made 49, attempting to win the game in spectatcular fashion, with the scores level. The target was reached with the loss of 3 wickets and with 9 balls to spare. Both teams should be commended for getting the match played in what were pretty miserable conditions, and in the end it was a decent game of cricket. Stirling County or Freuchie lie in wait for Strathearn in the next round.
Sunday 9th May - Mayfield - Home (Division 2)
PSCC XI 115 all out lost to Mayfield 116-5 by 5 wickets
Strathearn batted first in this 'local derby', and got off to a sticky start when McGaffney removed Callum Laing for 3. Gordon McKinnie (55) and Fraser Mearns set about rebuilding but with the exception of McKinnie runs were hard to come by, and boundaries even more so. When the last wicket fell on 115 the fact that 'extras' were the second highest scorer was an indication of the teams' struggles with the bat. The stand out bowlers for Mayfield were Smith, Samir and Lockett with 3 wickets each, although Armstrong and McGaffney showed their years of Premier Division experience in a tight opening spell.
The Mayfield reply got off to a steady start despite an economical spell from Dellaquaglia (8-4-12-0), and the opening pair of Ferguson and Riley moved steadily towards the target. Mahesh struck to remove Ferguson leg before, and immediately removed Samir in the same fashion, going on to finish with 3-14. However the target set earlier in the afternoon was simply too small and Mayfield coasted home with 5 wickets in hand.
Saturday 8th May - Meigle - Away (Premier Division)
PSCC 141-7 bt Meigle 134 all out by 7 runs
With confidence high after the week 1 win at home to Arbroath, Strathearn visited Victory Park, Meigle looking to make it two wins from two Premier Division outings. Things were not going to plan at 55-5 but a 6th wicket stand of 32 from Hamish Blomfield (43) and John McKenzie, steadied the ship. Duncan Marsh then joined Blomfield to add a further 52 for the 7th wicket, as the pair were put under pressure by the Meigle bowlers and fielders. The innings finally closed on 141-7 with Clark the pick of the Meigle bowlers with 3-36.
The Meigle reply followed the earlier pattern of the Strathearn innings, and the home side soon found themselves at 43-5, before Drummund Jnr (60) and Christie took the score to 95/6 when Christie eventually fell. Blomfield then re-joined the attack to finish with 4-26 as ten man Meigle finished 7 runs short on 134.
A tight tense hard fought game was finally won to make it an encouraging start to the new season, but the team are well aware that the batting needs to improve with some testing fixtures on the horizon.
Sunday 2nd May - Strathmore XI - Home (Division 2)
Strathmore XI 90 all out lost to PSCC XI 91-6 by 4 wickets
After winning the toss the home skipper asked Strathmore to bat and they were quickly in trouble with some tight bowling on show. Mahesh in particular bowled well taking 5-20, as the visitors struggled to 96 all out with Hewitson top scoring with 21. Confidence was high in the home dressing room as tea was taken, but this quickly evaporated as they found themselves teetering on 51-6, 28 of which had come from the bat of Fawad. However the experience of Andy Litster (18*) with assistance from Callum Laing (18*), his confidence high from the previous day, saw the team home with no further mishaps.
A winning start, with batting practice at nets this Thursday high on the agenda, as the team look forward to next weeks local derby with Mayfield.
Saturday 1st May - Arbroath United - Home (Premier Division)
PSCC 203-7 bt AUCC 137 all out by 66 runs
The first team got off to the perfect start in their first ever Premier Division outing at home to Arbroath United. Despite skipper Tramontanas losing the toss and being asked to bat on a green pitch a healthy score of 203-7 was posted. However initially it was the visitors who had the perfect start as experienced opener Gordon McKinnie, eager to take advantage of the fielding restrictions in the first 15 overs, wafted at a wide one, and was caught off the very first ball. After the loss of 2 more early wickets, Graeme Haddow (74) and David Patton (47) took the attack to the away side, with some agressive batting. A couple of tough chances were spurned by the visitors, which were made all the tougher by the cold drizzly conditions. With the tail wagging healthily the score rose above the 200 mark.
As the teams moved to the pavillion for some heat, it became apparent that whilst Strathearn were a match for AUCC on the field, the 'smokies' still set the standard off it, particulalry in terms of mid-match refreshment. An acceptable effort from the home team, but still room for improvement lads !!
With the new ball in hand, club veteran Hill and new arrival from New Zealand, Hamish Blomfield, bowled a tight opening spell with each bowler accounting for an opener apiece. Salmond and Riddler then steadied the Arbroath innings until Salmond was run out after a mix up between the pair, and good work from Oswald in the field. Riddler was then unforutunate to receive an unplayable delivery from Oswald which kept very low, leaving him square in front as the ball rapped his pads. This was a critical time in the game and the introduction of young spinner Callum Laing was the move that firmly tilted the game Strathy's way, as he went on to take 5-16, and the visitors slumped to 137 all out in the 39th over.
It was a great start for the team and a solid all round performance, which they will hope to repeat at Meigle next Saturday.
Saturday 24th April - Falkland XI - away (Friendly)
PSCC 195-6 bt Falkland 171 all out - PSCC win by 24 runs.
The First XI began their 2010 season with victory in a friendly away to Falkland last Saturday. Batting first Strathearn posted 195-6, a decent total with the main contributions coming from skipper Tramontanas with a rapid 63, McKinnie 48, Haddow 25 not out and Mearns 25 retired. Despite looking on course for victory mid way through their innings the Falkland reply eventually fell short by 24 runs with most of the Strathearn bowlers getting to opportunity to turn their arm over. The main wicket takers were Hill (2-33) and young Paul Collins with 2-18 in a pleasing first team debut. All in all this was a fine workout for the team in advance of their Premier Division debut this weekend in the Strathmore and Perthshire Union.
