Baston Home 28th August - Won by 52 runs

Promotion chasing Blankney welcomed Baston to BCG on Saturday, looking to close the gap on leaders Stamford who were inactive. Batting first, the early losses of Cameron Donald and Andrew Foster wasnt the greatest start, but a solid partnership from Simon Behan (49) and Dave Thomas (59) led Blankney to a respectable score on a slow damp wicket. Arch nemesis Tim Dyer picked up 4 more wickets for the visitors as Blankney closed on 155-9. After an excellent final tea of the season from the Holvey ladies was enjoyed by all, Blankney set out in bowling the visitors out. All 4 bowlers took wickets, with Neil Gilbert again bowling excellently in his last game of the season to take 1-16 off 12, but it was the slower bowlers, Ian Holvey 4-25 and Cameron Donald 3-31 that did the main damage to bowl the visitors out for 103, giving Blankney another victory, and closing the points gap to 21, with the leaders Stamford still to visit Blankney.

Heckington Away 29th August - Lost by 8 wickets

On a cold and blustery day, Blankney travelled to Heckington, who still have an eye on promotion. A wet wicket meant that the toss was vital to win, and returning captain James Ingamells, duly lost, and was asked to bat. At 20 overs Blankney were 32-3, and runs proving difficult. Only Cameron Donald (24) and Ash Jarvis (23) really troubled the scorers as Blankney were bowled out for 83. An indian inspired 8/10 tea was followed by Blankney taking to the field in conditions that were getting worse. Heckington batsman, especially Elliot took to the conditions much better than Blankney batsmen did, and despite Ash Jarvis 2 wickets, Heckington only required 15 overs to score the runs, and inflict a second heavy defeat on Blankney this season.

Timberland Away 21st August - Unfortunately this game was conceded by our hosts Timberland as they were unable to raise a side .

 

Carholme Home 22nd August - We welcomed Carholme to our ground for this McKinnells Sunday league fixture. Hopes were high after our previous weeks efforts at Saxilby. Our hopes were soon to be dashed after the tea interval though! Carholme won the toss and decided to have a bat - again the Blankney skipper if had won would have asked them to bat anyway. There were no complaints from the skipper about Blankney's bowling and fielding efforts. There was a debut behind the stumps for Jake Ellis who all in all acquitted himself very well making some superb acrobatic stops down the legside from the odd loose ball that was delivered. The one blot on his afternoon was putting his gloves in front of the stumps and causing the square leg umpire to call Ian Holvey for a no ball - the first in probably 20 years! Carholme made slow progress but did not lose may wickets early on. All the bowlers bowled good lines and length with few 'buffet' balls! Carholme's innings closed on 124 for 8 after their allocated 40 overs. Ash Jarvis taking 3 for 32 off 10 overs, N Gilbert 2 for 28 off 10 overs and I Holvey 1 for 14 of his ten overs. There were two run outs one of which was P Herrick trying to take a quick single to N Gilbert at mid off and then trying to run through the skipper I Holvey (only one result there then!) Our regular tea lady was missing (feigning an injury suffered earlier in the week) so replacements were called up namely Amber and Rachel - they were obviously paying attention in the domestic science lessons as a very nice tea was enjoyed by all. Blankney then went out to bat with a youthful looking line up (apart from the obvious). Cameron Donald was again dropped first ball - that is twice in two weeks! However that was only a short reprieve as he was bowled for 3. The top order were then removed very quickly with only Foster 13 staying for any length of time. Charlie Gilbert was bowled 1st ball after texting his father to tell him he was going in followed by another 2 minutes later saying he was out! Charlie says it was the ball of the season in that it swung in the air and then cut back off the seam (he's learning quickly). we were soon 39 for 5 after 15 overs and 125 looked am anwfully long way away. there were then little cameo innings from 6,7,8 and 9 batsmen anmely J Ellis 14, A Jarvis 21, G Schwandt 13 and N Gilbert 17 taking us to 94 before N Gilbert was last man out leaving a distraught skipper at the non strikers end not having face a ball! We now look forward to having the regular skipper back from the Maldives for the game against Heckington and the line up will be further reinforced by the addition of Lee Allman.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saxilby Away 15th August - Blankney travelled to championship hopefuls Saxilby on their only fixture of the weekend. Saxilby had won six of their last six games and are one of the promotion favourites to go up to the Premier Division. The toss looked as though it could be vital on a very green and what had been an uncovered wicket. Unfortunately the stand in skipper called wrongly and Saxilby elected to bowl. Foster and Donald opened the batting for Blankney and it was soon obvious that batting on this track was going to be no fun at all. With the score on 6 Donald got a ball that came up off a length which he only managed to fend off to a 'juggler' at gulley who somehow managed to catch it at the second attempt. This brought the in form Allman to the wicket who looked dangerous before pulling a long hop to a grateful mid-wicket for 13 with the score on 27. The Saxilby players who were well aware of the danger he posed were ecstatic! Thomas then joined Foster and it was then a case of grinding away to see what sort of total we could get to, the concensus of opinion being that 125 might give us a chance. These two battled well taking the total to 103 before Thomas fell for a very well deserved 46. We were now in the 35th over and every run was vital, Another 4 wickets fell before the innings closed on 116 for 7 with Foster making 34 in 38 overs but a valuable innings in the context of the game.Obviously Saxilby were happy with the total we had attained but the whole Blankney team felt that we had a chance on what was a very dodgy wicket. A very nice tea was enjoyed but Blankney were itching to get going and were out on the field 10 minutes early waiting for the Saxilby batsmen. Neil Gilbert opened the bowling and received a warning first ball for a ball above waist height - this was probably the only bad ball he bowled! Ash Jarvis took the new ball at the other end and quickly had opener Morley trapped in front for 2 (a decision he did not appear too happy with!) Runs were hard to come by for the batsmen but they rode their luck and by the time a double change of bowling came at 14 overs they had only 20 on the board but had still only lost one wicket. Holvey and Donald then came into the attack with Donald striking three times in his first two overs leaving Saxilby in a precarious position of 27 for 4. The hard hitting Burnett was now at the wicket but was not getting a lot of support from the other end. Gilbert was quickly brought back into the attack and removed four batsmen in his last three overs including Burnett who was superbly caught by Thomas at first slip. Saxilby were now teetering on 56 for 9 with 117 looking a long way away. R Hill then came in at number 11 and was immediately wound up by a 'beamer' from Jarvis - he then hit the ball hard arielly finding the gaps and pushed the score on to 84 before Thomas with only his second ball had him caught by Gilbert at deep mid wicket. Mention must also be made of Lee Allman who had a superb game behind the stumps taking two very good catches at an important time in the game. Donald and Gilbert again took 4 wickets ably supported by Jarvis/Holvey and Thomas who apparently needs notice if he is going to bowl and not a just 'next over dave'. This was yet again a very good team performance that has taken us to 3rd in the division albeit we have played a couple more games than the teams behind us.

 

 

 

Waddington Home 8th August - Blankney welcomed the ten man Waddington to play the McKinnell's Sunday league fixture. They were full of praise for the the ground with their skipper saying that at last he had the opportunity to play on a ground he had admired for many years - thanks for the compliment as it is nice that the hard work put in is sometimes appreciated. Ian Holvey the acting skipper (James Ingamells is still in the Maldives with his mobile switched off!) lost the toss so at least he didn't have to make a rash decision as he had the previous week. Waddington decided to bat and were soon under pressure from the Blankney opening pair of Ash Jarvis (who had recovered from his Postmans exertions the previous day) and Terry Enever not 'Enema' as some wag had put in the score book! Both openers played and missed on numerous occasions before both falling caught behind by Lee 'Rambo' Allman off the bowling of Jarvis, the second catch being an excellent one handed effort down the leg side. The number 3 for Waddington Morton made his intentions perfectly clear from the first ball trying to put almost every ball out of the ground. it is not so easy though to clear the boundaries at Blankney unlike at Waddington where a top edge is six! Holvey and Foster conspired together and put a fly slip in place - this worked perfectly until the umpire called no ball after a good catch was taken by Kaine Chappell off Jarvis. The same tactic was emplyed at the other end off Enevers bowling and again it worked apart from Foz Foster putting the difficult chance down. Holvey then came into the attack to have ago at removing Morton who was now becoming a bit of a thorn with all his ariel shots avoiding fielders. Foster suggested that the skipper should swallow his pride and place a fielder at Long On in front of the water tap - bingo 1st ball straight into the safe hands of Charlie Gilbert. Wickets then fell very quickly with Waddington being all out for 72 in the 30th over. Cameron'kinky boots' Donald cleaning the tail up for figures of 4 -18. Terry Enever bowled and had neil gilberts luck and finished with figures of 9.1 - 5 - 11 - 1. Ash Jarvis and Ian Holvey picking up two a piece in what was another impressive bowling and fielding performance. It was decided to take tea early between the innings much to the disgust of the tea ladies who apparently weren't ready! A superb tea was enjoyed with the Waddington players commenting that it was as good as the ground! A first appearance of the strawberry sponge and lemon cheesecake was welcomed by all. Blankney then went out to bat and not much can be said apart from that shortwork was made of attaining the required 73 runs with the loss of only one wicket. Foster and Allman both finishing not out on 30 and 31 respectively. The game finishing at 5.20pm. The Waddington Skipper obviously did not know that he was due a drink from the home skipper as the whole team vanished without having a drink. We now look forward to our visit to high flying Saxilby hoping that availabilty does not harm our chances.

 

 Long Sutton Away 7th August - Blankney made the long trip south through the fenlands to one of the furthest points in Linolnshire Long Sutton. Simon Craft feeling quite at home within the flat landscape as he was born and brought up in the fens so from this day forth he will be known as 'The Bog Trotter'! The toss was won by Simon 'Les' Behan for a change and he decided that he would have a bat. It was not long before rain started to fall quite heavily but cricketers are a hardy bunch and they remained on the field through all but the hardest and most persistent showers. Blankney made slow progress after losing our friend 'Les' for a duck - some people are starting to ask how he remains at the top of the batting averages on a saturday. None of the early batsman got in apart from Dave Pearse who had made 37 before he got an absolute shocking decision against him for LBW - the stumps would have had to have another set on top for the ball to have hit them! A good cameo innngs from number 10 Steve Brumpton of 27 took Blankney's total all out to 163 with 5 balls of the allotted 45 overs left. Brummy was heard telling the skipper that he is the best number 10 in the league - hopefully the skipper will change that for the next game. A very nice 10 out of 10 tea was then enjoyed with the skipper devouring a plate full of cup cakes with cream on the top - the majority of it being all over his face. Perhaps the club can run to a Tommy Tippe bib for the next game. Blankney then took the field quietly confident with the bowling line up we had. The opening pair of Jarvis and Gilbert again started well with Gilbert again looking a shade unlucky not to pick up more than 2 wickets. Ash Jarvis seemed to be struggling with some sort of Postmans Jet lag as he was removed from the attack after 5 overs. A John who had rode his luck against Neil Gilbert then succombed to the bowling of Holvey with a ball that just clipped the off stump bale. T Hall then took a stunning catch at mid-on to dismiss number 3 J Wright. None of the Long Sutton batsmen could live with the Blankney attack and they were dismissed  in the 27th over for 82. Cameron 'kinky boots' Donald again taking 4 wickets together with Ian Holvey. This was another excellent display against a team who were 3rd in the table, the fielding was superb with no catches being dropped.

 

 

Middle Rasen Away 1st August - Blankney travelled to Middle Rasen on Sunday with a very depleted team (I don't know whether that was due to where we were playing!). Some of the younger players had never played cricket here before so eyes were well and truly opened. For those that do not know the location it has very small boundaries due to the size of the sports field they play on (not their fault as they are a great bunch of lads). Anyway the acting captain Ian Holvey for the day (Skipper James Ingamells had decided to spend all his money on his wedding the day before) consulted with the other experienced member of the squad Phil Woodcock and they decided if they won the toss that they should field - it just shows what they have learnt over the years - NOTHING! So having won the toss Middle Rasen were asked to bat. Richard Boryszczuk opened the batting for Rasen and made his intentions perfectly clear off the third ball putting it out of the ground for 6. From that moment forward Blankneys bowlers were put to the sword - Rasen having scored 161 off the first 20 overs - we were starting to worry whether we were going to be on the wrong end of a league record. Boryszczuk was finally out for 123 having given two chances early in his innings. Rasens innings finally closed on 297 for 6. Probably the only positive from Blankneys bowling was Jake Ellis who picked up three wickets and fielded magnificently although all the Blankney players stuck to their jobs and did not let their heads go down - a credit to them all! After a well earned tea Blankneys openers went out with the philosopy that we might as well get beaten by 200 as 20. Unfortunately Cameron Donald was dismissed in the 1st over for a duck and any chance we had was then over. No batsman really got going with only Jake Ellis (yes him again) scoring any runs making 30 very quickly. Blankney were bowled out for 105 in the 20th over (good scoring rate) losing by 192 runs. The two senior players Holvey and Woodcock were heard to say that hell would freeze over before they played cricket at Middle Rasen again.!

Claypole Home 31st July - Blankney welcomed Claypole to their ground hoping for revenge against a team that had beaten a depleted Blankney team earlier in the season by a massive 211 runs! Claypole captain K Jacques won the toss and decided to let Blankney have a bat, a decision that Simon Behan would have undoubtedly copied after the amount of rain that had fallen the previous day. Progress was slow but the important thing was not to lose early wickets. 47 was put on for the first wicket before Andy Foster played a rash shot and holed out at cover for 25. Wickets then fell at regular intervals with only opener Cameron Donald standing resolute until Neil Gilbert arrived at the creaseand scored a very valuable 19 before being bowled by the Claypole skipper. Blankney managed to bat their full 45 overs with opener Donald carrying his bat for a very hard earned 66. The Blankney players believed that they had got enough with the strong bowling line up that they had. Claypole it seems thought that 152 was not going to challenge them too much.The Claypole innings started with Neil Gilbert taking the new ball at one end supported by Ash Jarvis at the other. Jarvis was soon into the wickets taking the first four batsmen with only 31 on the board bowling B Ryder with the delivery of the day 1st ball. Claypole could not live with the Blankney attack especially Jarvis eventually succombing for 82 all out. According to the tea ladies many excuses were being made by the Claypole batsmen as they returned to the pavilion but the best being that someone had eaten too much tea. So Blankneys new secret weapon is Sally's chocolate cake! Ash Jarvis taking his 1st 5 wicket haul for Blankney finishing with figures of 11-2-32-5. He was ably supported by the unlucky Neil Gilbert (no-one wanted his lottery numbers) with 1 wicket and Ian Holvey and Cameron Donald with 2 apiece - Donald taking 2 for none. This was sweet revenge for Blankney and proved that we are now not anyones push overs!

 

Blankney Young Guns v Pott -  All Stars/ Geriatrics or Whatever Sat 24th July

After all the hype Potter All Stars arrived for their 20/20 with the Blankney Young Guns. It   was decided that the more senior players from Potter would like to field first to enable them to relax their muscles - you have to remember that some of these players had not played cricket for between 10 and 15 years! Cameron Donald and Ash Jarvis opened the batting for Blankney and put on 71 for the first wicket. Ash Jarvis was the mainstay of the innings racking up 89 runs before falling LBW to Phil Woodcock. This was not before he has nonchalently reverse swept Ian Holvey on more than one occasion. Potter used 9 bowlers in all and some of them did provide a bit of a buffet for the Blankney batsman which they readily devoured. Aftet the 20 overs Blankney finished on 143 for 5 with the Potter skipper bragging that they had not got enough (the majority of his players were not so sure).

After a short interval to enable liquid refreshment (not all orange juice either) Potters opening pair of Phil Woodcock and Andy (Foz) Foster took to the field. Stuart Allen and Tim Graves were padded up ready to go in expecting an early wicket which was a long time coming. In fact they put 127 on for the first wicket in 17 overs before Phil Woodcock fell LBW To Ash Jarvis for a nice 44 - Umpire Simon Behan considering his decision for a milli second, This left Potter 17 to get in 3 overs. They managed to do this despite losing the somewhat rusty Allen and Graves plus Lee Allman who was suicidily run out. Graham (Bucky) Buckberry together with Andy Foster 76 not out seeing the all stars home. Blankney used 8 bowlers entering into the spirit in which the game was played.

After the game copius quantities of alcohol were consumed followed by some very nice curries. 

Thanks go to all those who made the day so enjoyable and especially to those who provided the curries all free of charge to the club namely James Garner, Phil & Tina Woodcock, Ian & Sally Holvey and Simon and Naz Behan therefore enabling us to raise well needed funds. Also thanks to Tush Behan for his cleaning and washing up prowess.

 

Moulton Harrox Away Sunday 25th July

Despite some fairly severe hangovers after the previous days curry evening Blankney made the long journey south to Moulton Harrox for a 1.30pm start hoping to continue their winning run which has seen them rise in the table. There was an early setback as two players were considered unfit to travel (the author having to roll out of bed to get up!)

The match commenced with Blankney only having 10 players present. Simon Behan won the toss and decided to bat. A good opening partnership of 64 looked to set Blankney up for a good score but only the top four managed to get going - Dave Pearse top scoring with 44 well backed up by Cameron Donald 38/ Andy Foster 36 /Simon Behan 20. The innings closed with 3 balls of the alloted 45 overs left on 160 all out. Moulton Harrox lost wickets steadily but were advancing towards their target and at one stage it did look as though the long journey woulkd be in vain. At 116 for 5 after 32 overs they looked the favourites but then started to struggle eventually being bowled out for 157 with two overs left. Sam Palmer bowling at the death and taking 3 for 24 from 7 overs was the hero of the moment. Cameron Donald bowled 12 overs taking 4 -46 and Neil Gilbert continued to amass wickets this season with 12 overs 3 for 21. This victory maintained our 3rd place in the division and the push for promotion is now well and truly on!

 

 

 

 

 

Martin 18th July - Won by 63 runs

Blankney Sunday side visited local rivals and free scoring Martin full of optimism after defeating thrid place Boston the previous week. Being put into bat, Blankney were soon struggling at 46-3 as Foster, Donald and Jarvis struggled to make an impact. A partnership of 40 between Allman and Pearse gave Blankney a decent looking 80 after 20. These two fell quickly after drinks and brought Ingamells and debutant Charlie Gilbert to the crease. They both took an instinct liking to the bowling as first Gilbert took 20 off an over, then Ingamells followed up with 22 as a new Sunday club record of 94 was added for the sixth wicket. Ingamells went on to hit 79, and give Blankney another new Sunday Club Record of 222-8. A satisfying 8/10 tea (just lacking a bit of cake). Martin, who 2 weeks previously had scored 441 came out to bat positively. The early loss of opener Harrison didnt stem the flow as at 18 overs they had already surpassed 100, with Noble and Scott looking in ominous form. However, some tight bowling, in particular from Cameron Donald, and some excellent catches from Ellis, Jarvis, Rhodes and in particular Gilbert meant wickets were falling regularly, and Martin couldnt get anywhere near their target, beimg all out for 169.

 

Spalding 17th July - Won by 24 runs

Having comfortably beat the same opposition last week, being put into bat by Spalding was an ideal situation for the in form Saturday side. However, this wasnt the case, as wickets fell regularly, no one making a score greater than 21 against some tight bowling, on a difficult track. Only a last wicket partnership of 20 odd from Tom Woodcock and Ian Holvey save Blankney as they made 107-9, which looked a very low target. After an excellent tea once again, it was down to the bowlers to try and turn the game around. Neil Gilbert with 4-29 and Tom Woodcock with 3-4 made sure this happened as Spalding were skittled out for 83, to give Blankney another victory, lifting them up to 3rd in the league.

Boston 11th July - Won by 2 wickets

High flying Boston were the visitors on Sunday to a resurgent Blankney side who were looking for their first double of the season. Losing the toss, Blankney were asked to bowl on a warm afternoon. (Not sure the captain would have done anything different if he had won the toss anyway!!). On what could only be described as a road, (can you tell the groundsman is a batsman!!) the Boston openers were soon in their stride, before Ash Jarvis had Gilding caught behind by Lee Allman. Moore was next out, being bowled by skipper James Ingamells, and even though the top 6 all made double figures, Blankney took wickets regularly. Ian Holvey came on and took 5-28 as Blankney looked to wrap up the innings. Number 11, Paul Deans came in and whacked 31 off 21 balls to give Boston a competitive 178. A new look opening pair of Cam Donald and Ash Jarvis put on 65 for the opening wicket before they both fell in quick succession. The innings then stuttered along to 108-6 as Rhodes, Ellis, Pearse and Chappell all went cheaply. As the run rate was increasing, Lee Allman and Terry Enever opened their arms with some expansive hitting, in particular Lee Allman who hit 71, before falling in the last over, with Blankney requiring 5 to win off the last 2. In came Gareth Schwandt, and quite nonchalantly hit both balls for four to give Blankney a dramatic win in one of the most entertaining games seen recently.

Spalding - 10th July - Won by 8 wickets

Another long trip was faced for the Saturday side, as they travelled to lowly Spalding. Deciding to bat, the home side never looked comfortable against a strong Blankney bowling line up as wickets fell regularly, most notably too Ian Holvey and Neil Gilbert who picked up 4 each, as Spalding struggled to 142 all out. Blankney were soon into their stride with Cam Donald and a despectacalised (first time in 40 odd years we are led to believe) Simon Behan putting on 60 for the first wicket before Donald fell for 15. Dave Thomas came to the wicket, and both himself and 2 eyed Behan both scored 50s. Dave Pearse came in after Behan was out for 53 to finish off the innings and lift Blankney into 3rd place with a comfortable win.

Moutlton Harrox - 3rd July - Won by 114 runs

Blankney had chance to bounce back immediately from their previous defeat, as the SLB double header meant Moulton Harrox were the visitors. Choosing to bat first Blankney certainly applied themselves much better than the previous day, in particular Phil Woodcock who struk the clubs first century of the season, carrying his bat for 104 not out. Contributions from Dave Pearse and a high score of 24 from Gareth Schwandt led Blankney to 216-6. A challenging target was always beyond Moulton, especially after Sam Palmer dismissed both the openers cheaply. Dave Thomas backed up his 3 wickets on the Saturday, with 4 more, and the returning Ian Holvey chipped in with 2, as Moulton were bowled out for 102, giving Blankney a convincing victory and putting them back in touch with the league leaders.

Long Sutton - 2nd July - Lost by 2 wickets

A South Lincs and Border League double header commenced as Blankney welcomed Long Sutton. Without skipper Simon Behan, but buoyed by the inclusion of new signing Cameron Donald, Blankney took to batting on a warm afternoon, on a hard track that had not seen rain for a couple of weeks. Blankney couldnt adapt to the conditions, as only Dave Pearse with 28 offered any resistance as the hosts were bowled out for 85. A low target on a good pitch, Long Sutton slowly worked their way to the victory target. Despite tight bowling from Phil Woodcock (3-34) and Dave Thomas (3-6), Long Sutton reached the required amount in 36 overs.

Carholme - 27th June - Won by 20 runs

Meeting at 9.30am on a Sunday morning to play cricket is a first for many, as the England match played havoc with the timings. Including 4 new signings Blankney went to bottom of the league Carholme for a 24 over a side game. Captained by Lee Allman, Blankney batted first, and useful contributions from Cameron Donald, Dave Pearse, Terry Enever and Ash Jarvis gave Blankney a respectable 110-8. With bowlers restricted to 6 overs each, a mixture of bowlers were used, with notable contributions from Jake Ellis and Ash Jarvis restricting Carholme to 80-8, and giving Blankney their 3rd win of the season.

Claypole - 26th June - Lost by 219 runs

On a stifling hot day, and without many key players, Blankney succombed to an embarrising defeat. Putting Claypole into bat, it was soon realised this was a bad decision as the opening pair put on over 100 for the first wicket. Without the pace of Gilbert, or guile of Holvey the bowling line up wasnt up to the strong home side. Phil Woodcocks 2-20 off 10 and Simon Crafts 2-28 were the highlights in what was a disappointing afternoon, not helped by the 69 extras given away. Always up against it, without skipper Simon Behan and vice captain Andy Foster, the Blankney innings never got going, and with 8 from extras being the 2nd top score, the visitors were always struggling, finishing the innings on 60 all out.

Old Lincolnians - 20th June - Lost by 80 runs

A depleted Blankney side took the trip to Christs Hospital School in Lincoln and came away with their 5th successive defeat. With a strong bowling line up Blankney fielded first, but no breakthrough was made in the first 20 overs as the two openers but on 70+. After drinks the runs started to increase, but so did the wickets as Old Linc finished on 164-8, a total which might have been a little low on a good track and lightneing outfield. A good tesco value 8/10 tea was enjoyed by all. The reply didnt start well with Foster, Ingamells and Atkinson falling cheaply early on. Contributions from Chappell, Enever and GIlbert gave the score some respectability of 82, but falling somewhat short.

Burgh Le Marsh - 19th June - Won by 8 wickets

After comprehensively beating the same side only a few weeks prior, spirits were high in the Blankney camp as they welcomed Burgh. The toss was lost, and Burgh decided to bat on a good track. However, the guile of Phil Woodcock soon got them in trouble, backed up by Neil Gilbert, Tom Woodcock, Ted Shores, Sam Palmer and Dave Thomas. Woodcock senior took 4-14 from 12 overs to bowl Burgh out for 117. Despite the loss of two wickets, Blankney eased to a fine victory led by Simon Behan 39* and Dave Pearse 44, to give maximum points.

Heckington - 13th June - Lost by 9 wickets

Blankney won the toss, and stand in skipper Andy Foster shocked everyone by choosing to Bat! It wasn't long before the skipper was walking back to the pavilion, along with Lee Allman and Simon Atkinson, contributing 2 runs between them. Dave Pears and James Ingamells stopped the flow of wickets with some sensible batting, but neither could go on to make a significant score, and following the loss of these wickets the remaining batsman could only muster 12 runs, and Blankney were all out for 84, on what appeared an excellent track. Another excellent teas, with praise from the opposition too. Heckington didn't take long to get in their stride and 54 not out from Charlesworth, punishing all the bowlers, giving the visitors a comfortable 9 wicket victory, with Gareth Schwandt picking up the only wicket for Blankney.

Baston - 12th June - Lost by 6 wickets

Meeting at Blankney at 10.30am, the long trip to Baston was put forward to avoid a clash with the England game in the evening. Maybe the early start affected some of the players, as Blankney succomed to a defeat. It looked promising early on as Callum Steele and Andy Foster started well on what only can be described as  a pudding of a wicket! However, when these two were out for 27 and 52 respectively it went rapidly downhill as Blankney were all out for 132, Dyer taking 7-17 for the hosts. A teddy bears picnic in the middle of the field with no cups of tea didnt go down well, and can only be marked as a 2/10. Blankney set about with some tight bowling, Ian Holvey bowling 8 maidens in a row as opener Morris played out a 55 ball duck. At 79-4 Blankney still had a chance as the overs began to dwindle, but wicketkeeper Howard came in, scoring more than a run a ball to leave Blankney defeated, despite the efforts of Phil Woodcock 3-33.

Welby - Pattinson Cup - Lost 4-3 in Bowl Off

After a very early cancellation, Blankney arrived at Sleaford Cricket Club to take part in a 10 ball a side Bowl off against last years runners up Welby. After the first 4 bowlers drew blanks with there 2 balls each, skipper James Ingamells struck once. This was soon canceled out as  Welby struck 3 out of the next 4 balls, and left Phil Woodcock needing to hit twice to bring Blankney level. He held his nerve, hitting both times, to take it to 3-3 with one Welby bowler left. His first ball hit the net about half way down, but his next one some how hit the middle stump leaving Blankney defeated 4-3 on the night.

 

Grantham H - 5th June - Won by 9 wickets  

Blankney bowled first, and pure pace and accuracy from Neil Gilbert and Tom Woodcock straight from the off left Grantham in all sorts of trouble. Only one player scored double figures as Gilbert 6-24 and Woodcock 4-12 ripped through the opposition within 14 overs. Tea wasnt taken, as Blankney chose to bat straight away, and were comfortable winners with the loss of only one wicket in 9 overs. With only 23 overs being bowled, and the game finishing not long after 3pm, a 12 over slog was enjoyed by both the teams. Not seen for many a year at Blankney, and testament to the good spirit the game was played in.

 

 

Waddington A - 23rd May - Lost by 20 runs

Blankney visited Waddington without skipper James Ingamells, and came away disappointed to lose in a high scoring game. Stand In skipper Andy Foster kept up the long tradition of bowling first, and found the two openers hard to dislodge. Opening bowlers Neil Gilbert and Gareth Schwandt toiled away, with very short boundaries not helping. The legend that is Ian Holvey was brought into the attack, and even though he was unusually expensive he picked up 6-62 as Waddington posted a competitive 203. Blankneys reply started promisingly with Foster and Dave Pearse making an aggressive start, both posting scores in the 30s. Lee Allman then came in and blasted 68, but he was the only other player to get a decent score as Blankney fell 20 runs short.

 

Burgh le Marsh A - 22nd May - Won

On a scorching hot day Blankney took the long trip to Burgh Le Marsh. On an unpredictable wicket the toss was won, and with stifling heat burning down Blankney chose to bat first. Simon Behan and Andy Foster looked to attack the bowling from the off, and in particular some expansive shots from Foster soon brought the 50 partnership up. Foster was first to go being bowled for 44. This sparked a flurry of quick wickets as Behan (31), Tom Hall and Dave Pearse were soon back in the hut. At 100-4 the promising start was looking to be lost. In came Ted Shores and James Ingamells who both played aggressive shots to spread the field to all corners. Ingamells was out for an entertaining boundary ridden 33, and Shores was out not long after for 18 on his first knock of the season. More runs were probably needed, and number 9 Simon Craft followed with the attacking shots, and his 27 was the main reason Blankney surpassed the 200 mark to get full batting points, ending up on 205-8. A decent 8 out of 10 tea (only let down by the lack of cakes, but a good collection of sandwiches and crisps). Blankney took to the field with the heat still as strong, and Tom Woodcock and Neil Gilbert soon found out that anything but perfect line and length was to be punished. Burgh were scoring at 10 an over until Pearce tried one shot too many off Ian Holvey as was superbly caught by Ingamells. With the breakthrough made, wickets continued to fall regularly as Gilbert in particular took good use of the unpredictable track taking 5-18, well supported by Woodcock, Holvey, Hall and Shores to give Blankney a comfortable victory in excess of 100 runs. Two remarkable events took place during the game, the bizarre run out of Neil Gilbert as he was dropped by the bowler from a skier, but the ball landed straight on the stumps too leave him out of his ground. The other was something usually seen in the gymnastics at the Olympics, a superb half turn pirouette from Ian Holvey was finished off with a graceful one handed catch that surely has to be an early contender for catch of the season as well as scoring a 6.0 from the visiting judges.

Timberland H - May - Lost by 83 runs

A troubled Timberland side were welcomed to Blankney for a big local derby. A strong looking Blankney side were asked to bowl first, and it wasnt long before Neil Gilbert and Tom Woodcock broke through, taking three early wickets. A partnership between Tonge and Charlie Gilbert, both scoring 48, brought some consolidation to the Timberland innings until James Ingamells bowled them both. Some dropped catches and slack fielding allowed Timberland to score some late runs, and finished on 187-7, on what looked like an excellently prepared 200+ wicket. A delight of cakes was experienced during the break, but this seemed to have an effect on the Blankney batting as wickets began to fall quickly, with batsman getting themselves out. Only Dave Pearse with 27 really showed any promise, A couple of dodgy umpiring decisions didnt help the Blankney cause and the home side were bowled out for 104, giving the spoils to a jubilant Timberland side.

 

Boston 2nds Away 25th April - Won by 7 wickets

First game for the Sunday team saw them travel to Boston, scene of yet another heavy defeat during the forgettable 2009 season. This time it was to face Boston 2nd XI and after winning promotion, and an early season win against Heckington must have been the bookies favourites. Blankney welcomed new signing Kaine Chappell into the team, and also the welcome return of Lee Allman after a years absence. After losing the toss Blankney were asked to bowl, and a mixture of youth and experience started the proceedings. It wasnt long before the first scalp of the season was taken when Gareth Schwandt bowled opener Gilding. Two more quick wickets followed for Holvey and Chappell and Boston were reeling at 31-3. Consolidation was in order and a fine 77 not out from Epton, supported by Evans and Deans took Boston to 169-6 at the close. A positive start from Blankney, with Chappell taking two wickets on debut. After a good 8 out of 10 tea, Blankney opened with Saturday captain Behan and Foster. With rain clouds gathering overhead both players were scoring quickly and 58 was reached before some confusion in the middle led to Foster being run out for a productive 23 off 32. The saying is that one always brings two, and it wasnt long before Allman was out, showing signs of a bit of early season rustiness. Pearse joined Behan at the crease and these two continued to play some expansive shots, especially an over of 5 consecutive boundaries from Pearse. Pearse was finally out for 47, bringing skipper Ingamells to the crease to finish off the game just as the heavens opened. Man of the Match Behan ended on 72 not out, a very satisfying victory after last seasons disappointments.

 

Stamford A - 1st May - Won by 8 wickets

Simon Behans Saturday side began their campaign with a lengthy trip to Stamford. Buoyed by three new signings, a strong looking side made the trip. Stamford were put into bat on an unpredictable wicket, and the two openers soon got into their stride. Some quick bowling from new player Neil Gilbert, superbly backed up by the accuracy of Tom Woodcock soon put a halt to the promising start from the home team. It was Woodcock that took the first wicket of captain Macbeath, and this started the steady fall of wickets, with Steele and Holvey picking up two each, and debutant Gilbert coming back on to take four wickets. Stamford being bowled out for 101. Blankney opened with another newcomer Dave Thomas and last seasons league top scorer Simon Behan. Both players started well, but Thomas was unlucky to be out for 16. Youngster Tom Hall came in at 3, and some positive play was witnessed, but was unfortunatly out for three. Phil Woodcok came to the crease, and along with Behan led Blankney to their victory total with 13 overs to spare, Woodcock finishing on 31 and Behan again passing his half century to finish on 54. A good opening for Blankney, who must be amongst the early season favourites for promotion.

 

Bracebridge H - 2nd May - Won by 10 wickets

After the previous Sundays win at Boston, the Sunday side were confident going into their first home game of the season with BBH. Blankney put the visitors into bat, and looked the wrong decision as the top three all posted 20+ scores. However, a youthful BBH side couldnt push on from this early promise, and tight bowling, in particular from Sam Palmer (1-35) and Gareth Schwandt (3-26) slowed the scoring down. A late surge from the lower order pushed the score to a very competitive 159 all out, with all 5 Blankney bowlers taking wickets. An excellent tea as always from Mrs Holveywas enjoyed by all, before Blankney openers Pearse and Foster set about chasing the total. Both players started confidently, with the bad ball being dispatched to all corners of the ground. 71 without loss at drinks, and Blankney were looking commanding. Pearse passed his 50 in quick time, and the 100 partnership was brought up with Foster contributing only 17 of them. Dave Pearse, known for his dislike of running 3's made amends by running four of them. In the 26th over Blankney reached their target, with Foster 48 not out and Pearse 90 not out. A masterclass in batting from both players, and the manner of victory is sure to send shock waves around the league that Blankney mean business this year.

Martin H - 9th May - Lost by 61runs

With both teams playing 2 and winning 2 a top of the table clash between local rivals Blankney and Martin took place. Blankney won the toss and asked Martin to bat, probably unaware they had Sleaford ECB player Mark Joyce opening. He quickly set about the scoring, with 20 coming from the second over of the game. Blankney included Neil Gilbert for his Sunday debut, but even his pace couldnt trouble Joyce. Steadily though Blankney took wickets at the other end, with Gilbert, Ingamells, Holvey and the returning Enever sharing thm about. It was Joyce though with 124 that led Martin to a very competitive 187 for 8. Again some good teas from the Holvey ladies, in particular a repeat appearance of the excellent carrot cake. Blankney were optimistic after their last two run chases, but this week wasnt to prove third time lucky, as only one batsman got double figures. Lee Allman missed last season, but he is certainly back with some of the biggest his seen at the ground in a rapid 77. Blankney were bowled out for 119, in only the 24th over, with Gollop taking 6-28. A disappointing result, and especially being beaten by what can only be classed as a "ringer!"