Poynton 152-9, Christleton 135-9. Match drawn.
Poynton can take heart from most of their bowling and fielding performance, and some parts of their batting, after this low scoring draw.
18-3 didn’t represent the best start to a season, leaving Paul Gould and newcomer Nafees Din with a rebuilding job on their hands. Both did a good job, reaching 30 and 31 respectively before both falling to fine catches.
Some excellent line and length bowling, notably from Irasthan De Silva who recorded 3-34 in 18 overs, and a defensive field, made life difficult for Poynton, and instead of accelerating the scoring, Poynton collapsed again to 91-7.
But Poynton are hoping a long batting line up will be one of their strengths this season, and some fine strokes from number nine Rick Clark in making an unbeaten 33 from 39 deliveries were vital here. Matt Parkinson and Suresh De Silva also took three wickets each.
Unable to build any significant partnerships, Christleton were never favourites to win at any stage of their run chase. Some intelligent rotation of the bowling options by acting captain Gould helped in never allowing the batsmen to become settled. David Graham top scored for the home side with 44.
Derwin Thompson enjoyed the pace and bounce he received from the wicket in taking 3-14 in eight overs, with Simon Turner also taking three wickets and Jamie Maltman two. There were also notable slip catches from Turner and Paul Slattery as Poynton came within one wicket of an opening day victory.
The first team play at home to Didsbury on Saturday 26 April, 1 pm at London Road North
