Soham slip up against solid Newmarket

SOHAM slipped to their third loss of the season on Saturday after they failed to capitalise on a decent bowling effort against Newmarket.

Peter Hinde’s men have enjoyed a solid season in CCA Division 2A this year but came up a hefty 70 runs short against Newmarket who impressed with an excellent display of disciplined bowling.

The loss leaves Soham with a 13.5 average for the season, somewhat adrift of the top teams but comfortably clear of the bottom three sides in sixth place.

Bowling first, Soham wasted little time in putting their high-flying opponents under pressure and the first three wickets fell with less than 60 runs on the board as the opening pair turned the screw.

A middle-order rally from J Rodman (37) and A Shewry (32) threatened to take the gloss off Soham’s performance but a late surge from paceman Alex French (4-14) ensured the visitors were bowled out for 161.

Keith Metcalfe picked up 3-38 in an excellent spell for Soham.

Requiring four-an-over for the win, Soham needed steady progress throughout but were immediately under pressure as both openers fell with less than 10 runs on the board.

Mick Harvey (17) and Josh Pope (17) steadied the ship for the home side but apart from a cameo of 20 from Steve Dalby, Soham struggled to get runs on the board.

With only the tail to tackle to seal the win, Newmarket stepped up their attack and managed to take the last wicket with just 91 runs on the board.

Soham travel to Wilburton on Saturday and will need a win to avoid being sucked further towards the drop zone.