Iago on the ball as Findon maintain a strong lead

FINDON Cricket Club’s bowlers did the business on Saturday to maintain a strong lead at the top of Sussex League Division 3 West with a 59-run win over strugglers Pagham.

Having lost the toss, Findon made a modest score of 129 all out after being stuck in, but a good display with the ball dispatched basement side Pagham for just 70.

Star man James Iago once again led the Findon attack, and took 5-22 in 18 overs, to help earn the 30-point victory and give his side a 43-point cushion over second-placed Bognor.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Findon captain Barry Meaney described the match as a big result in their quest for the title, although admitted their total was a little shy.

He said: “We were possibly a little rusty in the batting stakes after 10 days off, but it was a must-win game as it looks as though Bognor are going to keep up the pressure.

“When it gets wet up at Findon, it’s not an easy track to bat on. Probably 150 to 160 was par, but credit to Pagham they set good fields, although we felt at the halfway stage it was more than defendable.

“I said to the boys there wasn’t much lee-way for error with the ball, but you always know, particularly with James bowling at one end, there won’t be many runs coming. He put in an outstanding spell and got the rewards.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Iago was ably assisted by Tom Blake and Harry Metters, who took 2-22 and 2-21 respectively.

Iago was also in form with the bat, top-scoring in their innings with 27. His sixth-wicket stand with Meaney (24) was particularly important, as they added 58, taking them from 50-5.

Opener Bradley Bridson had earlier hit 24, while Steve Gettings added a late 12.

Pagham’s bowlers also got amongst the wickets, but were more expensive than the Findon attack. Wayne Green claimed 4-45, Mark Ross 3-25 and Michael Hales 3-49.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Meaney is now targeting three wins from their final four games to seal the title and promotion into Division 2.

He added: “It’s difficult to set a points total, but if we get three wins from four then it doesn’t look like anyone would catch us.

“Obviously, we’re looking for the league title and anything else will be a major disappointment.”

Findon travel to Slinfold on Saturday, although are without Graham Manser, Blake and Gettings.

Related topics: