Croft can’t stop defeat (From Malvern Gazette)

Croft can’t stop defeat

4:10pm Monday 17th September 2007 in Cricket

CAPTAIN Andy Croft took 5-19 as Malvern narrowly lost a low-scoring match at Elmley Castle.

Croft took his five wickets, ably supported by Mark Baush's 3-28, as Malvern failed to chase down their target after being bowled out for just 87.

The visitors batted first and lost Dave Sharp for 16 and Tom Hughes for eight.

But the wicket of Charlie Hemtase triggered a collapse which included the prize scalp of Rob Francis for a first-ball duck.

Steven Carter and Baush made it into double figures but a total of 87 on a small ground was a very poor effort.

Skipper Croft gave his side an inspiring teamtalk and Malvern took to the field believing an unlikely victory was possible.

However, Elmley lost only one early wicket against paceman Francis and veteran off-spinner Don Bendall and, at 31-1, victory seemed a formality.

Croft, though, brought himself and Baush into the attack and soon wickets began to tumble.

Carter took three excellent catches in the deep and suddenly Malvern sensed victory, but they could not claim the final wicket and Elmley emerged winners by one wicket.