This week saw a Rustington double header with the 1st XI at home and the 2nd XI at Rustington. With a grassy wicket looking as though it may be lively, Eastergate 2nd XI won the toss and chose to bowl first. Rustington made an electric start with B West (64) smashing a very quick 50 and it was only the introduction of Phil Reed (3-0-23-1), on bowling debut, brought his demise taken behind by Etherington off a slight edge. J Walker (68) carried on the attack and assisted by his middle order the runs kept ticking. Eastergate kept going and steadily took wickets also, Fergus Geraets (6-1-27-1) picked up his first senior wicket and Andy White (4-2-7-3) picked up 3. Jonny Simmonds fielded superbly in the deep and took a good catch off a free hit. Rustington ending on 239 all out in 38 overs.
In reply the unflusterable John Etherington (64) held a faltering Eastergate batting lineup together with his usual array of fine strokes and powerful hitting. Mark Bentley (51no) was the only batsman to help Etherington out with a maiden 50. His innings marked with some good running and topped off with 2 lovely sixes. Tight bowling from Rustington saw Eastergate stifled to finish on 173 off the 40 overs.
A good game played in a nice spirit, with the Eastergate colts doing well.
Thanks to Painey for scoring and Steve from Rustington for umpiring.
Unfortunately the 1st XI lost also with the only highlight a nice 100 from Aaron Bateman.