KMCC vs Masham C.C.

KMCC hamstrung in local derby

 KMCC started the day at the top of the Nidderdale league tree for their visit to local rivals Masham. Losing the toss once again KMCC were again inserted onto the batting strip at Masham. After losing both openers early on, Glen "Merv" Loraine proved what a bat he is smashing the ball to all parts passing 50 in Kirkby colours for the first time and outstripping the runs scored by his other partners. Just as a century appeared inevitable there was a ridiculous mix up in calls and he pulled a hamstring whilst being run out out on 60. The innings continued to progress thanks to positive batting from Armer, 27 and Brad 32 although at 137-6 careful batting was required to post a decent total. This was once again provided by D Fraser,41 and Blackburn 4no as Duncan called for the oxygen being called through for two after two. At tea the point secured on 183-7 and KMCC were still top of the table.

 The nosebleed suffered by Glen shows he has already slotted into the KMCC mentality as the rarefied heights of the top division proved too much and Masham eased their way towards the victory target. Both Duncan and Tufnell exhausted by their efforts with the bat failed to exert any control with the ball and the early season heat cooled to a chill breeze with only Peter Kirk 2-47 and Mike Armer 1-26 forcing any break throughs as Masham secured victory at a canter with seven wickets and 10 overs remaining. Rather than aiming for the title, this should be regarded as a point safely won in the battle against relegation. Hampsthwaite will be the opposition for the eagerly awaited first home fixture at the KMCG next week.