Old Boys Leads On First Innings

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30938, 20 December 1965, Page 20

Old Boys Leads On First Innings

Wben M. L. Ryan capped a fine Innings with two sixes in the las* over from A. G. Duckmanton. Old Boys was able to declare, having secured a first innings lead over Lancaster Park and the bonus points with an over to spare. Play was quiet before lunch wben Old Boys was 136 for three, but the game Mvened at the resumption when R. F. Cocks served a useful spell, taking three for 18 in eight overs.

The strong Old Boys batting arm flexed itself often and effectively but at times become anxious and hasty. Coveting the first innings victory against the competition leader, but tempted with the prospects of bonus points as well, Old Boys often sold wickets cheaply. Lancaster Park exploited the advantage well. Its bowlara, at times dislodged from length by the Old Boys’ attack in the middle-order, revived visibly with every success. C. J. Stevens and, particularly, B. G. HatMee, found the efficient Lancaster Park outfielders hard to penetrate. The stumps were not always attacked, but the field was well placed.

Ryan’e solution to the problem won general Old Boys' approval ■nd seemed mos* original. Hie 60 took 88 minutes.

Umpires: Messrs T. F. Mathie and B. Dennison.