Ford remains calm after early loss - The Malvern Observer

Ford remains calm after early loss

Malvern Editorial 30th Apr, 2014 Updated: 20th Oct, 2016   0

BARNARDS Green Cricket Club captain Andy Ford believes it is one of the most open leagues in recent years after his side fell short against newly-promoted Oswestry on Saturday.

Jon Dovey claimed a five wicket haul to leave Green needing 161 off 50 overs to record an opening day victory in the Birmingham and District Premier League.

But Oswestry’s bowlers stepped up to the plate as the visitors fell 25 runs short of their target despite the best efforts of Jamie Tapper and Jack Mackintosh from the crease.

Ford said he was disappointed by the outcome but he believed they would be many more opportunities for Green this season.




“We can’t dwell on it as I am sure we will get back to winning ways before long,” he said.

“I think it is a really open league this year so anyone can beat anyone on their day.


“In pre-season there is a lot of talk about teams bringing in certain players, but we just need to put that to one side and play who turns up on the day.

“We are a relatively small club compared to others, so we will be punching above our weight this season.

“But it was the same last year and we were obviously successful as we finished fourth.

“Our team ethos has been key for us as everyone has been willing to fight for the cause and I just hope we can keep that level up this year.”

Although Green’s battling line up struggled against Oswestry, the 25-year-old said they had strengthened in that area ahead of this season.

“Our bowling has always been good as we have always had plenty of options so we just need to back that up with our battling,” Ford added.

“But we have brought in George Rhodes from Bromsgrove who is opening the batting for us, while we have also got Andrew Curtis, who is finishing his studies at Exeter University, and we have got our oversees player from New Zealand who is an all-rounder, so it will come together.”

Barnards Green will have the chance to bounce back when they host Smethwick on Saturday.

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