CRICKET: Victory moves Sleaford CC up to third place

Batting first after losing the toss at Lincoln, Sleaford’s innings revolved principally around a second wicket partnership of 90 between Matthew Mountain and Obus Pienaar who came together after the loss of Thomas Shorthouse for 10.

After Mountain’s dismissal for an excellent 63, Pienaar went on to dominate the remainder of the innings, accelerating spectacularly during the final overs as he went through to his fourth century of the season as Sleaford claimed maximum batting first (225-6).

In reply, the home side threatened to make short work of their target thanks to some wayward bowling and sloppy fielding, but the dismissal of Tomlinson and the advent of Shorthouse and Nick Goacher into the attack saw Sleaford slowly but surely seize the advantage.

Sleaford eventually secured victory when Shorthouse had Peatman caught in the deep in the 49th over, thus securing maximum points from an entertaining game. Lindum were all out for 202.

On Sunday, Sleaford first XI, sponsored by Specsavers, were thoroughly outplayed by Cherry Willingham and went down to a 10 wicket defeat.

But The Academy travelled to Market Rasen and secured an excellent victory after posting a total of 157 from their 40 overs, Tom Brooke making a half century. In reply, the home side pushed Sleaford all the way, but four wickets for Kieran Harbron helped to edge his side to a 13 run victory.

This weekend Sleaford first XI, sponsored by Reg Baker Plant Hire, entertain Skegness in the ECB Premier League on Saturday whilst in the South Lincs and Border League Premier Division, sponsored by Darren Wilson, the team travel to Spalding. On Sunday, Bracebridge visit Sleaford in the Lincoln League Premier Division whilst The Academy travel to Morton.

Home games start at midday and 2pm respectively and spectators are welcome on both days, with free admission.