Yet another glorious day at the Valley of Peace with the ground and wicket looking a picture thanks to Ant Polson and his grounds team. The Valley won the toss and asked Swannanoa CC to bat. Little did we realise opener Tony Horne would still be at the crease 50 overs later having compiled 134 not out. It was a patient and controlled innings but with plenty of powerful hitting when the occasion arose. Our congratulations to Tony on his fine innings and we look forward to seeing his name inscribed on the “Visitors Honours Board” in the future. Tony was ably supported by Conner McDonald and Captain Nathan Lang who helped Swannanoa reach 263 at the end of their 50 overs. Geoff Olsen, Dan Hooper, Alex Fulton (14yrs playing with grandfather Gordon), and Graham Aveyard all toiled away at the bowler’s crease but in the end, were outgunned by a very good batting display.
The Valley got off to a shaky start and at 4 for 26 things were not looking good. Tony O’Loughlin however dug in and took the Valley through to 5 for 113 with a fine knock of 52. Tony’s dismissal was a body blow from which the Valley would not recover, eventually succumbing in the 42 over for a total of 130. S Rossvaar 4 for 18 and T Martin 3 for 14, were the pick of the Swannanoa bowlers.
Our sincere thanks go to Swannanoa for their wonderful help over the last two seasons as we worked through our ground restoration program following the Canterbury Earthquakes. It was certainly our pleasure to be able to host the Swannanoa team and be given the opportunity to acknowledge their greatly appreciated assistance. Special thanks to Barry Frost for his superb lunch and to our President Scott Cartwright for hosting throughout the day.
Match report: Brent Bailey
