Women and Girls' Cricket

Under 13s lose in semi-final to Kent

After an unbeaten run in the league, the U-13s played their semi-final away against Kent at Brookland CC on Saturday 3rd September 2005.

Essex won the toss and skipper Lauren Onojaife decided to bat although Essex were soon in trouble as Beth Langston was bowled in the first over. Catherine Dalton joined Lauren Onojaife although Lauren was out in the 8th over, quickly followed by Victoria Yates, with Essex 24 for 3 after 8 overs. Jennifer Lees hit a few boundaries but was soon bowled and wickets began to tumble quickly with the loss of Hannah Courtnell, Catherine and Christina Low with Essex slumping to 75 for 8 in the 16th over. Elissa Penketh joined Tia Moore at the crease and the pair batted very sensibly putting on 48 runs before Elissa was adjudged run-out to a very dubious umpiring decision. Kent disposed of Bryony Butcher and Liz Pope quickly with Essex being bowled out for 127 in the 26th over.

The Essex side had it all to do and raised their game significantly to ensure Kent struggled for the runs. The bowling and fielding was second to none and at the drinks break Kent had managed only 42 runs off 15 over although for the loss of only 1 wicket. Essex continued to make it difficult for Kent to score with some excellent bowling and fielding displays with most of the team throwing themselves around to cut down the runs. Kent managed to scramble singles and keep the score ticking although in the last 10 overs, Essex started to take wickets and with 4 overs to go Kent needed 20 to win with 6 wickets remaining. Essex took Kent to the wire although with 3 runs required off the last over, Kent were favourites. However, Lauren took a wicket with her 3rd ball, meaning Kent needed 3 runs to win off 3 balls and, unfortunately managed to scramble home on the last ball.

This was a fantastic game, played in a magnificant spirit and the Essex girls should all be proud of their individual performances not only in this game but all season.

Well done and good luck to Kent, in the final

Full Scorecard is on the results page.

Dave Letch