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| SENIOR MATCH REPORTS
To access the match reports for the 2007 senior games simply scroll down the reports that follow to the match in question. The 2007 season review can also be accessed from here.
5/6th May
In the absence of his skipper, vice-captain Simon Dyson took a young side in transition to Bridport on Saturday in their Division One league game. After losing the toss and being inserted on a lively wicket Dave Dyer & James Harris got Swans’ off to a solid start taking the score past fifty before Harris was given out caught behind. Dyer was making batting look easy until he was brilliantly caught in the covers for (40), this left Swans’ in trouble at (79-4). County player - Paul Higham played a fantastic innings showing a full repertoire of shots – watchful in defence and punishing the loose ball with exquisite timing. He was finally dismissed for a fluent (58) after a partnership with Dyson who struck (32) – he nursed the tail to ensure that at least Swanage had something to bowl at when they were finally all out for 195.
In reply Bridport set off at 5 runs an over and appeared to be cruising to victory at (144-2) after 34 overs despite good spells from Toby Avery who took (2-30) and an economical spell of left arm spin from Pete Kirby. Fine bowling from Dyer and Dyson who both claimed (1-29) put Swans’ on course for a most unlikely victory. However, the hosts stuttered over the line with just 4 balls to spare. Despite the defeat Swanage can take many positives from the game, almost half the side were under 18 – all of whom made useful contributions particularly wicket-keeper Lewis Kirby. Swans’ can approach the forthcoming fixtures with optimism.
On Sunday the 1st XI played hosts to Parley in their Division Four clash at Days Park. After the loss of two early wickets 15 year-old Ben Baczlala joined the in-form Ian Perry to rescue Swans’ with a century partnership. Baczlala showed fantastic temperament and a full range of shots in making a solid (42), Perry was joined by Ashley King who compiled a patient (25) in a stand of (85). Perry was finally dismissed just two runs short of his century but not before he had struck 14 boundaries. The innings was given further impetus by a spectacular half-century from Nick Bishop who faced just 22 balls for his (54 not out) enabling Swans’ to finish on (258-5). After the loss of four early wickets Parley were never in the hunt. All of Swans’ bowlers were amongst the wickets Ricky King, Tim Edgar & Baczlala claiming 2 a piece and Ron Barker & Dan White also chipping in with a wicket each to shot the visitors out for just 78. This completed a comprehensive victory for the 1st XI in their opening league fixture.
Unfortunately the 2nd XI went down to defeat in their Division 6 fixture away at Symene. The hosts got off to a flying start smashing 180 for the loss of just 2 wickets from 30 overs, the only Swans’ bowlers to make any impression on the hosts batting line-up were Roger Wilcox who claimed (3-48) and Andy Avery (2-42) however, they could not prevent Symene from smashing a formidable (292-7) off their 45 overs. In reply Swans’ young side set off very positively with an opening stand of (75) between Chris Carpenter (25) and Toby Avery who made a fluent half century. After this wickets fell at regular intervals in face of such a huge total with only Steve Carpenter making (25). Swans’ innings closed on (189-7)
12/13th May
SWANAGE 124-2 (25pts) beat BEAMINSTER 123 (2pts) by eight wickets (extracted from the Bridport and Lyme Regis News).
BEAMINSTER experienced a crushing dose of déjà vu at Days Park on Saturday as they travelled to Swanage for the Dorset Funeral Plan League Division One clash aiming to record their first victory of the summer. However, they returned home with an almost identical defeat as 12 months ago in the corresponding fixture. That day they were stuck in on a damp wicket and skittled for 119 before Swanage knocked off the target in 22 overs. And, in a case of déjà vu, on Saturday they were stuck in on a damp wicket and skittled for 123 before Swanage knocked off the target in 26.5 overs. The Memorial Ground outfit could take few positives from the game apart from an impressive knock of 43 from Australian import Grant Vink. The opening batsman was only a spectator as his skipper and Ben Freke were removed in Paul Higham's opening burst. Dave Dyer then had Simon Jones caught, and clean bowled Russ Hurford, before Chris Park (20) and Richard Runyard (19 not out) made useful contributions to push the score into three figures. But after they reached 112-5 they lost their final five wickets for just 11 runs as Higham returned to complete his devastating display. He trapped Murray Legg lbw and had Matt Hansford caught by Jamie Harris to end with figures of 5-23 in eight overs. Beaminster had left themselves with a mountain to climb after the tea break as sunshine gradually began to break through the clouds. They started well when Jones (1-21) clean bowled Ian Booth for 10 but Dyer, who dropped down to number three after scoring 40 against Bridport last week, came in to add 43 for the second wicket with Harris. Legg (1-17) had Dyer caught behind by Runyard for 29 but Higham joined Harris to add the finishing touches to his man of the match performance. Harris finished unbeaten on 48 and Higham on 26 as the Swans sealed maximum points as sent Beaminster home with just two.
The Sunday league matches v Blandford Nomads (Division 4) and Shillingstone 2nds (Division 6) were called off due to rain without a ball being bowled.
19/20th May
Match report not yet available for the Saturday Division 1 home match v Dorchester.
On Sunday Swanage 1st XI played host to Christchurch in their division 4 encounter. Swans got off to a sound start, with a partnership of 70 between Mike Nash who made a solid 33 and Ian Perry who went on to smash a fluent 65. With his departure the innings stuttered until a partnership of 48 between Paul Higham who made 23 and Tim Edgar who struck a brisk 33 to take Swanage up to a competitive total of 229-8 from there 45 overs. In reply Higham claimed 2 early wickets, however with 3 solid partnerships in excess of 60 the visitors cruised to victory with 4 overs to spare. Swans didn’t help themselves with some erratic bowling and inept fielding including 61 extras. This is a wake up call for the side and should prevent any further complacency.
The 2nd XI travelled to Puddletown in a Division 6 fixture. After being inserted on an artificial wicket Swans got off to a strong start with a partnership of 40 between Mike Wells (20) and Toby Avery (30). The highlight of the innings was undoubtedly an innings of 152 from Dave Dyer who smashed 28 boundaries and guided swans to a total of 225-8. In reply Swanage reduced the hosts to just 46 off 21 overs through some tight bowling from Terry White who claimed (2-14) and Toby Avery who took (2-18). The hosts never recovered and were finally restricted to 143 with Roger Wilcox and Steve Carpenter also amongst the wickets. This completed a comprehensive victory for new captain Pete Barker.
26/27th May
A very youthful Swanage side visited leaders Stalbridge on Saturday. Having lost two players on Friday through injury & work commitments those that stepped up into the side acquitted themselves well. Stalbridge won the toss and elected to bat first on what looked a very good wicket but they were soon in trouble against some tight bowling from Paul Higham and Pete Constable and with Toby Avery (3-67) coming on to replace Higham the home side were looking in trouble at 64-5 but unfortunately the two missing bowlers let Stalbridge off the hook and their middle order batsman started to re-build the innings. Pete Constable (2-22) came back into the attack and took a wicket first ball before suffering a serious injury which meant he couldn't continue to bowl - Pete Barker replaced him and finished well taking 3-39 off his 9 overs. Stalbridge ended on 265-9 with young wicketkeeper, Lewis Kirby, outstanding behind the stumps again.
When Swanage batted they started well against one of the best sets of opening bowlers in the league - young Matt Thomas impressing again and gaining valuable experience at this level. Dave Dyer at the other end started to score runs and when they introduced their spinner he greeted him with two big sixes and continued to plunder runs at ease. However when it looked like Dyer was going on to a big score he was cruelly adjudged to be out LBW for 56 and this in effect halted the run chase for the weakened Swanage side. Paul Higham batted very maturely throughout the innings and finished on 58 not out as Swanage were finally bowled out for 173.
With four 15 year olds & two 16 year olds in the side this was a tremendous effort from the young Swanage side and the opposition were mightily impressed with the young players who all certainly didn't look out of place at this level. Captain Pete Constable said this is great credit to the Youth set-up at Swanage and all the hard work the Youth coaches have put in over recent years is starting to show real benefits for the senior sides - it was a real joy to lead the side, the young players not only playing the game well but behaving impeccably - great credit to the them
The Sunday League games against Iwerne and Fontwell (Division 4) and Broadstone 2nds (Division 6) were called off due to rain without a ball being bowled.
2/3rd June
Last Saturday 2 June Swanage played hosts to a very strong Broadstone side in their Division One encounter. After winning the toss and electing to bat Swans were soon in trouble with only James Harris (25) and debutant Chris Leak (29) putting up any resistance to a formidable bowling attack. After they both departed in quick succession the Swans innings fell away and the hosts were shot out for a paltry (125). In reply, Broadstone got off to a solid start and despite two wickets from Ben Baczala and a wicket a piece from Toby Avery, Ricky King and Leak the vistiors cruised to victory with nearly 20 overs to spare although the youthful Swans side never gave up, attributes they will need when they entertain Wimborne next week.
On Sunday the 1st XI entertained Chesselbourne in their Divison 4 match. Swans got off to a flying start through Mike Nash and Dave Dyer who put on (60) in just 8 overs with Dyer smashing (30). Swans then lost five quick wickets including Nash who went for a fluent (37) to be in some trouble at (107-5) the innings was rescued by a partnership between youngsters Ben Baczala who struck a fine (37) and Ricky King who made a brisk (21 not out). This enabled Swans to post a competitive score of (179) on a track of differing bounce. In reply, the visitors were soon in trouble at (19-4) due to two fine opening spells from Tim Edgar (2-13) and King (2-10). The middle order and tail was cleaned up by Toby Avery (2-4) and leg-spinner Dan White (3-15) reducing the visitors to just (48). This crushing victory sets Swans up for their tough encounter at Winton next Sunday.
The Sunday 2nd XI visited Portland in their division 6 fixture and endured a positive start from the home team who had 71 runs on the board in the first 15 overs. However, the Swanage bowlers stuck to their task and tight spells from Sam Price, who only conceded 13 runs in his 5 overs, and Peter Barker (2-17) helped apply some much needed pressure. Wickets then began to fall more regularly with Roger Wilcox (2-25) and Terry White (3-61) helping to limit Portland to a final total of 204. This challenging target on an awkward wicket quickly became an even stiffer test for Swanage when they lost a wicket to the second ball of their reply. However, an impressive innings from Matt Thomas (55) followed and displaying great technique and timing he crashed 28 runs though the covers from one over to quickly regain the initiative. Mike Wells (58) also played an important grafting innings in support and when he was last out with the score on 179-4 Swanage were all but home. An unbeaten Peter Barker (37) capped a fine day as captain with some lusty blows to secure the team’s second win of the season in the 40th over.
9/10th June
On Saturday Swanage entertained Wimborne in their latest Division One encounter. Swanage were buoyed by the return of their inspirational captain Ian Booth who won the toss and inserted the struggling visitors in an attempt to achieve maximum points. The visitors were soon in trouble at (38-4) due to a fine opening spell from Ricky King who claimed (1-25), he was ably assisted by the star performer Paul Higham who took a fantastic 5 wicket haul from his 10 overs whilst only conceding 24 runs. The visitors' middle order was ripped out by Chris Leak who bagged 2 wickets to restrict Wimborne to (92-7) with the help of two great catches from keeper Nick Bishop. Despite a late flurry of runs the visitors were reduced to a meagre total of (149). In reply, Swanage got off to a solid start through James Harris who struck a fluent (31), despite the loss of 2 more wickets which cost the hosts maximum points they were guided to victory by Booth who smashed a majestic (59) with some expansive cover drives and ferocious pull shots. This victory will boost the hosts' confidence for their tough test next week when Marnhull are the visitors to Days Park.
On Sunday, the 1st XI travelled to Winton in their latest Division 4 clash. After being put into bat on a wicket of differing bounce Swans' lost both openers with only 9 on the board. The visitors were rescued by a spectacular partnership of (103) by the in-form Ashley King who caressed the ball to all parts of the ground making a stylish (53) including 7 boundaries and Higham who progressed to 69 with some scintillating stroke-play all round the wicket striking 10 boundaries in his run-a-ball knock. The momentum was maintained by Nick Bishop with a brisk (25) and then increased still further by brilliant youngsters Ricky King and Ben Baczala who together smashed (32) and (46 not out) respectively adding 67 off the last 5 overs enabling Swans' to finish on a formidable (269-8) from their 45 overs. In reply, it was not long before the hosts were in trouble and at (32-4) the game over as a contest. Higham continued where he left off the previous day and took (2-36), wickets continued to fall at regular intervals with the main recipient being Tim Edgar who claimed 4 wickets for just 19 runs off 10 miserly overs. Toby Avery also got in on the act cleaning up the tail with 2 wickets to help secure a 106 run victory. Swans' go into next weeks fixture against Portland at Days Park looking for a hat-trick of victories.
The absence of a league fixture saw the Sunday 2nd XI claim a 132 run victory over neighbours Corfe in a 40 over friendly at Days Park. Stand in skipper Tatty King elected to bat first and saw Pete Dyer, Mike Wells and Pete Barker initially prosper against a varied bowling attack. However, all perished quickly to leave Swanage on 82-3 and in danger of handing the initiative to the visitors. However, Adam King (47), Chris Carpenter (65 not out) and Will Baker (30 not out) then restored Swanage’s advantage as the visitors gradually wilted in the heat. All played handsome strokes around the wicket and although Chris Carpenter played the innings of the match with some excellent cover drives both King and Baker struck sixes as Swanage amassed 247-4. The Corfe reply soon run into trouble against some alert fielding and bowling and with Ben Cross taking a smart catch to dismiss dangerman Chris Leak cheaply the visitors struggled. And although Sam Price (1-17) and Pete Barker (2-4) impressed with the ball it was fitting that club stalwarts Tatty King (2-14) and Pete Dyer (2-11) wrapped the innings up with Corfe all out for 115. This match provided a welcome opportunity for some of the clubs younger players to play a senior match and it is particularly pleasing to report that none looked out of place in the side. 16th/17th June
On Saturday, Swanage 1st XI played hosts to Marnhull on a seaming pitch at Days Park in their latest Division One match. The visitors got off to a strong start with a valuable stand of 70 for the first wicket. Their progress was halted by Ben Baczala who took 2 wickets with successive deliveries and went on to claim a third dismissal, along with excellent spells from left-arm spinner Pete Kirby and medium-pacer Chris Leak who bagged 2 and 3 wickets respectively to reduce Marnhull to 125-7. However, some enterprising batting from the visitors’ tail enabled them to score a crucial 50 runs from their last 10 overs to take them up to a competitive score of 175-8 from their 45 overs.
In reply, despite the loss of an early wicket, Captain Ian Booth and the in-form Dave Dyer battled superbly against the seaming ball until Booth was caught behind for 22. Dyer continued to impress with some glorious pull shots before he perished at deep mid-off trying to repeat a previous big hit. He made a classy 55 but the score was now 97-3 and the game was in the balance. The visiting ‘keeper then proceeded to pull off two stunning stumpings and despite a battling display from the hosts lower order including 20 from Paul Higham Swans’ were finally dismissed for 157 leaving them 18 runs short of their target. On Sunday, the 1st XI entertained Portland in a top of the table clash. The hosts batted first and got off to a flying start through debutant Matt Thomas who made a fluent 28 and Nick Bishop together adding 75 at 5 runs an over to set a great foundation. Bishop was then joined by Dave Dyer who continued where he left off form Saturday with a partnership of 82 off only 11 overs. Bishop fell for a superb 55, Dyer went on to construct a fantastic innings of 74 including 14 boundaries. Ben Baczala on joining Dyer struck a brisk 25 guiding Swanage to a formidable 245-9 off their 45 overs.
In reply, Portland were soon in trouble due to fine bowling by both Tim Edgar who took 1 wicket and Paul Higham 2. The visitors were reduced to 35-4 due to a stunning catch from Captain Ron Barker. ‘Golden Arm’ Barker introduced himself into the attack and claimed 3 quick wickets, this restricted Portland to 60-7. Despite some late order hitting Swanage completed a comprehensive victory to move into second place in Sunday Division Four, celebrating a hat trick of wins.
Unfortunately. the Second XI had the worst of the wet weather and suffered a 7 wicket defeat in their match with Bournemouth 2nd XI on the main pitch at Chapel Gate. Captain Pete Barker batted fluently for a well struck 34 and it took another solid knock from Chris Carpenter 37 and a brief hard hitting cameo from Adam King to raise the run rate to just over 4 runs an over. However, once they were out the remaining batsmen struggled to score sufficient runs. Swanage managing to score 178 – 7 in their allotted overs was due to a dashing partnership of 35 between Tatty King and Roger Wilcox who struck 23. Swans’ hopes of victory were raised when Terry White snared a quick wicket, however as the rain began to fall the Bournemouth batsmen were able to push the ball around with ease as the Swanage bowlers and fielders struggled to control the wet ball. Sam Price bowled tightly and although Ben Cross and Mike Wells also took a couple of quick wickets in the gathering gloom it wasn’t enough to prevent the home team reaching their target for the loss of only 3 wickets in only their 30th over.
23rd/24th June – Seasonal update
Due to inclement weather, there were no cricket matches at all last weekend thus allowing an ideal opportunity to give an up-date of the season so far.
The Saturday team - which is very much in transition have won two of their seven matches to lie eighth of ten in the very tight, competitive Division 1 whilst developing some very promising youngsters from the successful youth section run superbly by Chris Price. There have been notable achievements from skipper Ian Booth, Dave Dyer and Paul Higham who have all passed fifty. County star Higham has also claimed two five wicket hauls. The performances of young Lewis Kirby behind the stumps have been nothing short of sensational which has also been acknowledged by the County. The team spirit has remained sound and they will look to carry this forward to produce a positive second half to the season.
The Sunday 1st XI are currently in a strong position lying second in Division 4 having just completed a hat-trick of victories. The main contributors have been Ian Perry, Nick Bishop, Ashley King, Paul Higham, Ben Baczala and Dave Dyer who have all notched-up half centuries as well as Tim Edgar and Ricky King who have both claimed five wicket hauls. The team spirit has been outstanding throughout and with the inspirational leadership of Ron Barker a sustained promotion bid is a realistic aim and maybe even a push for the Championship if their winning streak can be maintained.
The Sunday 2nd XI have been led admirably by youngster Pete Barker who has matured into a very respected leader - always offering encouragement and his infectious enthusiasm has rubbed off on the rest of the team. They are currently in a comfortable mid-table position having won two lost two and had three games lost to the weather. The highlight of their campaign has been a spectacular 152 by Dave Dyer. Toby Avery, Mike Wells, Matt Thomas and Chris Carpenter have also struck half-centuries. A number of other youngsters' including Sam Price, Adam King and Steve Carpenter have all performed admirably and gained invaluable experience.
Finally, a special mention to our club sponsors - The Masala Indian Restaurant and Humphries Kirk for their much appreciated continued support. 30 June/1 July
Due to the inclement weather the Saturday 1st XI and Sunday 2nd XI fixtures were called off. However, the seaside sun shone in Swanage on Sunday as the Sunday 1st XI captained by Ron Barker, entertained Dewlish in their latest Division 4 encounter. On winning the toss the skipper inserted the struggling visitors in an attempt to gain maximum points in this very competitive league. The visitors were soon in trouble due to an outstanding spell of bowling from County star Paul Higham who bowled 6 overs without conceeding a run. He was ably assisted by Tim Edgar who claimed 4 wickets to restrict Dewlish to (29-5). Youngsters Ben Baczala and Ricky King who took 3 and 2 wickets respectively came on and cleaned up the tail to reduce the visitors to a meagre total of 47. Swans' had few alarms and were guided to a comprehensive 9 wicket victory by Ian Perry and Nick Bishop, achieving a maximum haul of 20 points to go top of the league. Saturday/Sunday 7th and 8th July
On Saturday Swanage Cricket club's first team played hosts to Bridport in a massive relegation clash at Days Park in what turned out to be a momentous day for star batsman Dave Dyer. He posted the highest individual score by a Swanage player - 187 not out, including 13 sixes and 19 fours as he struck the ball to all corners of the ground in a chanceless knock. The magnitude of his innings was put into context by a quote from Club President - John Burt who said "It was one of the best innings I've ever seen in the history of the club." Swanage were put into bat and were in trouble at 43-3. Dyer, was joined by Chris Leak, who played a very mature innings striking the ball superbly off his legs as he compiled his first half-century for the 1st XI. Together they added a match-winning stand of 156 at over five runs an over. When Leak departed, Dyer accelerated still further and guided the tail through the last 10 overs including one over which yielded 23 runs. This enabled Swans to record their highest score - a formidable 321-9 off 45 overs. In reply, the visitors got off to a flying start and when the reached 152-3 off just 18 overs a sensational run chase appeared to be on. However, when Leak returned to claim two quick wickets the run rate spiralled out of control. Skipper Simon Dyson then claimed the last of his three wickets and along with Pete Barker and Pete Kirby who both claimed a brace of dismissals. The visitors were finally all out for 226, allowing Swans to claim a potentially crucial maximum 25-point haul. The Bridport report of thisgame is also available here.
On Sunday the 1st XI travelled to Parley in their latest Division 4 encounter. After winning the toss, the hosts got off to a solid start with an opening stand of 58 which was broken by Dan White whose leg-spin proved crucial - he went on to bag another wicket. All the Swans' bowlers claimed wickets at regular intervals with Tim Edgar taking three and Ben Baczala and Ricky King two-apiece, along with a superb run out by White - Parley were finally all out for below par 182. In reply Swanage were in a precarious position at 69-4 when youngster Baczala joined Dyson who had already started to play beautifully. Their unbroken partnership guided Swans to a fifth successive victory. Dyson smashed 13 boundaries in his knock of 89 not out and was ably supported by youngster Baczala (40). This puts the team in a positive frame of mind for their top of the table clash against Blandford at Days Park next week.
The Sunday 2nd XI suffered a heavy defeat in their home fixture against league leaders Symene as the greater experience of the Bridport players in the Symene team finally told. Unfortunately, the Swans didn't do themselves any favours as they dropped 8 catches to allow the visitors to reach 274-6 after a slow start against fine opening spells from Steve Carpenter and Terry White. In reply the Swans lost wickets regularly but Pete Dyer (44) and Pete Barker ensured that anything loose was severely punished to keep the home side in the hunt. Their dismissals however meant a batting rearguard was necessary if the home team were to edge towards maximum batting points. They almost succeeded with a partnership between Roger Wilcox and Adam Baczala but in the fading light it wasn't to be as Swans' were eventually bowled out for 149. Although this was a disappointing result there is no doubt that the team are competitive in this league and would be higher up the table if their fixtures against the weaker teams hadn’t been called of due to the weather. However the catching must improve as relatively straightforward chances keep being put down.
Saturday/Sunday 14/15th July
On Saturday Swanage 1st XI travelled to Beaminster in their latest Division One encounter. After being inserted on a seaming wicket Swanage were soon in trouble against some very tight bowling. After skipper Booth was dismissed for a hard fought 22 and the in-form Dave Dyer was brilliantly caught for 26 Swanage were reeling at 68-4. Swanage never recovered and were finally skittled out for just 84 with Chris Leak the only other batsman to put up any resistance. In reply, Beaminster had few alarms in reaching their target despite Paul Higham, Pete Kirby and Chris Leak each claiming a wicket. Beaminster recorded a comfortable 7 wicket victory to leave Swanage precariously placed just above the relegation zone.
On Sunday Swanage 1st XI entertained Blandford in the top-of-the-table Division 4 clash. With inclement weather around and overhead conditions overcast, Swans won a crucial toss and inserted the visitors. Swans’ started aggressively and soon had the visitors in trouble at 29-2 with a devastating opening spell from Ricky King who took the first of his 2 wickets and Paul Higham who bowled exceptionally well. He also claimed 2 wickets and when Ian Booth remover their star batsman, the visitors were struggling at 107-5. Ben Baczala then came on and cleaned up the tail with 3 wickets to reduse the visitors to a below par score of 153. Swans got off to a steady start through Mike Nash who made 21 and Ian Booth. Booth went on to stroke a majestic 44 and when his partnership with Ian Perry who struck 25 was flourishing Swanage looked well set for victory. However, a dramatic collapse saw Swans’ slump to (131-9) in what was a real ‘topsy-turvey’ encounter. Despite a valiant last wicket stand between Dan White who was not out at the end and Ron Barker – Swans’ fell agonisingly short by 2 runs in what was a fantastic game of cricket.
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The Sunday 2nd XI suffered a cruel 1 wicket defeat in the final over of their division 6 fixture at a damp Shillingstone ground. Despite the wet outfield the day started well for the Swans with Tom Wake-Walker, Pete Dyer (20) and Mike Wells (29) all batting positively to put the Swans in a strong position at 126-1. But, after Tom Wake-Walker’s (67) classy innings ended the later batting fell quickly away and the visitors were all out for 185, some 50 runs short of a par total. However,despite a wet and slippery ball a battling bowling performance followed and almost won the game as Terry White picked up a brace of wickets and Mike Wells took 4 wickets in his spell. Although a couple of excellent run outs also helped put the pressure on Shillingstone their lower order kept their nerve and aided by the odd fumble and dropped catch they edged their way to victory with 9 wickets down and one ball to spare. Saturday/Sunday 21st/22nd July
On Saturday Swanage travelled to the outstanding team in Division One – Dorchester, in their latest encounter. In overcast conditions and on a seaming wicket Swans’ were inserted in a rain affected game. The visitors were soon in trouble against tight, hostile bowling and when star batsman Dave Dyer and Chris Leak were dismissed in quick succession Swans’ were reeling at 55-5. The only resistance from the tail came in a partnership between Pete Barker and Ricky King as Swanage were skittled out for a meagre 104. In reply, Dorchester got off to a solid start despite Ricky King claiming a wicket. Swanage fought hard and when Chris Leak who claimed 3 wickets and Dave Dyer 2 ripped out the hosts’ middle order an unlikely victory appeared on. However, despite Swans’ best efforts Dorchester reached their target with 4 wickets to spare to leave Swans’ facing a relegation battle for the rest of the campaign.
The Sunday First XI travelled to Christchurch in a potential promotion play-off even at this early stage of the season in their latest Division 4 encounter. Swanage won a crucial toss and inserted the hosts on a seaming wicket and soon had them in trouble at 21-4 with Paul Higham claiming 3 early wickets. Swans’ continued to take wickets at regular intervals with the in-form Tim Edgar bagging a brace and Ron Barker and Ricky King also claiming one apiece to reduce the hosts to 151-7. In response, Swanage got over the loss of 3 quick wickets with a solid partnership between Mike Nash and Ian Perry until Nash was unluckily dismissed. Despite Perry’s best efforts in making a fluent 48, wickets continued to tumble at the other end and Swans’ were finally dismissed for just 96 – leaving them with a lot of work to do to achieve their goal of promotion.
The Sunday 2nd XI played host to Puddletown in their Division 6 fixture at the weekend and despite restricting the visitors to 187-6 in their innings the Swans found runs equally hard to come by and were bowled out for 113 in their reply. The highlight of the batting was Pete Dyer and Matt Thomas who both scored 24 in their contrasting styles and at 50-2 the Swans were looking comfortable. However, the turning point then came with the introduction of spin as the Swans middle order struggled against the turning ball and quickly collapsed, only Chris Carpenter and Pete Barker getting into double figures. Earlier in the day Terry White proved the most successful bowler with his 2-36 and there was also wickets for Ben Cross, Steve Carpenter and Pete Barker. They were ably backed up by the ground fielding, in particular Lewis Kirby, who looked sharp behind the stumps and Chris Carpenter and Matt Thomas who both picked up fine catches. Saturday 28th July
On Saturday Swanage 1st XI played hosts to Stalbridge in their latest Division One encounter at Days Park. In overcast conditions, Swans' skipper Ian Booth made a brave decision to bat first and opened the innings with great skill mixing watchful defence with some classical cover drives. When he was briliantly caught for a stylish 37 the hosts were reeling at 70-5. Swans' were rescued by Nick Bishop who took over from where Booth left off and played a superb knock of 52 which included some fierce pull shots - his partnership with youngster Ben Baczala who struck a quick-fire unbeaten 31 enabled Swans' to post a competitive total of 169. In reply, despite 2 early wickets from Chris Leak at 76-2 the visitors appeared to be well set in their run chase. However, the left-arm spin of both Dave Dyer and Pete Kirby changed the complexion of the whole match as they took 3 quick wickets between them. A spectacular run-out by youngster Sam Price and an inspired spell of bowling by Baczala who took 3 wickets in all helped reduce the visitors to 139-9 when the heavens opened. Their superior run rate enabled the hosts to record a much needed victory with a fine all round team performance from a young side.
Sunday 29th July
On Sunday Swans' in-form batsman Ian Perry produced a majestic innings of 173 not out including 6 sixes and 19 fours to record the third highest individual score by a Swanage player in the clubs history to get the Sunday first teams season back on track after 2 successive defeats. After losing a crucial toss and being inserted on a seaming wicket the Sunday 1st XI were soon in trouble against Iwerne & Fontwell at Days Park in their latest Division 4 clash. When Perry strode to the crease at 11-2 Swanage were in serious trouble but he rescued the team with a magnificent match-winning partnership of 135 with Charlie Wycherly at more than 4 runs per over. When Wycherly was dismissed for a fluent 48 Perry accelerated still further and preceeded to smash the ball to all parts of the ground to notch up his second century for the club thus enabling the hosts to post an imposing total of 276-8 from their 45 overs. In reply, the visitors never recovered from 23-4 due to a brace of wickets from both Tim Edgar and Ricky King. Despite an excellent partnership in the middle order Edgar and King returned to take another couple of wickets each and end up with (4-31) and (4-22) respectively to help reduce the visitors ro 155-8 from their 45 overs. This emphatic win thanks to Perrys' heroics enables the team to look forward to rest of the season with optimism as they continue their push for promotion.
Sadly the Sunday 2nd XI created their own carnival in their fixture at Broadstone as a procession of batsmen failed to show any degree of patience on a damp wicket and they were bowled out for 58. Captain Pete Barker was the only batsman to show any durability and only he and Terry White reached double figures. Although Broadstone ultimately won with some ease Chris Carpenter took a wicket with the first ball of their innings (aided by a smart catch at silly mid-off by Pete Barker) and also took a sharp chance at square leg. Saturday 4th August
On Saturday Swanage superstars' Dave Dyer & Captain Ian Booth made history at Broadstone with a club record opening stand of 312 in their latest Division One clash. After winning the toss and electing to bat Dyer & Booth got Swanage off to a solid start making 99 of the first 20 overs. The innings then took off as Dyer & Booth accelerated adding a further 213 off the next 22 overs until Booth was finally dismissed for 105 after striking 16 fours, Dyer went on to equal his own club record from earlier in the season when he finally fell for a sensational 187 which included 19 fours & 6 sixes as Swans' amassed a formidable 329-2 off their 45 overs. In reply, the hosts were in contention after 20 overs as they reached 97-1 but wickets then fell at regular intervals as the run-rate increased with Dyer claiming 3 wickets and Ricky King also claiming a brace. Despite some big partnerships from the lower order Broadstone fell 30 runs short of their massive target and Swans' secured an important victory in a fantastic game.
A more sedate game occurred at home on the Saturday as the Veterans XI took on a similar XI from WK CC in a 40 over match. Although skipper Tatty King lost the toss and was asked to bat his opening pair of David Haines and Peter Roe established a firm grip on a wayward bowling attack to put on 43 in the first 8 overs. However, the slow over rate was causing problems and so skipper King took the novel step of declaring 5 overs early with the score of 233-7 in order the get the game back on track. That he was able to do was largely due to an elegant knock of 75 from Ed Wake-Walker and some hitting out from Andrew Cuthbert (16), Andy Baczala (20) Peter Constable (19) and a wonderful cameo from John Harper (22). The WC CC batting started as slowly as their bowling and they struggled to get any momentum once May (31) was out. The pick of the Swans attack was Ed Wake Walker (3-9) though a brace from Andy Kirkwood (2-9) and Terry White (2-25) saw the visitors bowled out for 133 in 33 overs.
Sunday 5th August
On Sunday, the 1st XI travelled to Chesselbourne in their latest Division Four encounter. The hosts were soon in trouble at 32-2 due to some fine bowling from Paul Higham who went on to claim 3 wickets in total. After a strong partnership the hosts were in a good position at 151-3 until skipper Ron Barker came on to claim the first of his 4 wickets as Swans fought back to restrict the hosts to a below par 203-8. In reply, Swanage got off to a solid start with a half-century partnership between Mike Nash & Charlie Wycherly. Nash was then joined by the in-form Ian Perry who smashed a quick-fire 35 to get Swans' well in front of the run rate. However, Swans' were in some trouble at 140-5 but were guided to victory by Nash who went on to make his first half century of the summer smashing a stylish, match-winning knock of 59 not out including 8 boundaries as Swans' completed a crucial 4 wicket victory to keep their promotion bid alive.
The Sunday 2nd XI also secured a much need win in their Division 6 home league match against Portland. Batting first the Swans made 188-9 from their 45 overs with Matt Thomas (63) and Pete Dyer (52) putting on 103 to recover from the quick loss of Skipper Pete Barker. However, aside from Sam Price (11) and Chris Carpenter (11) the other batsmen struggled for runs though importantly ensured that the team did bat through the 45 overs. The Portland reply started slowly against a tight attack and with the required run rate increasing it was only a matter of time before the pressure created by the bowlers resulted in wickets falling. They then tumbled in quick succession as the visitors were all out for 76. Despite the usual quota of dropped catches all the bowlers got reward for bowling a tight line with Terry White (2-20), Sam Price (2-11), Tatty King (2-16) and Robin Wilcox (2-4) leading the way.
Saturday 11th August
On Saturday a youthful Swanage first team played hosts to Wimborne in their latest Division One encounter. Despite a good opening burst of seam bowling from Ricky King the visitors got themselves into a strong position at 135-3 off 25 overs. The introduction of left-arm spinner Pete Kirby saw the run-rate reduce. He bowled an excellent, economical spell claiming a brace of wickets to reduce the visitors to 165-5. The fight back was continued by Chris Leak and the returning King who together polished off the tail to finish with 3 wickets apiece as the visitors were dismissed for a below par 214 on a good batting wicket. In reply, Swanage got off to a solid start against some very tight seam bowling until Mike Nash was unluckily dismissed for a stylish 29. This triggered a middle order collapse which left Swanage reeling at 72-6. The hosts were rescued from embarrassment by a 52 run partnership between Ben Baczala and Pete Barker. Baczala batted brilliantly mixing sound defence with attacking flair striking the ball beautifully. He fell agonisingly 3 runs short of his half-century as the hosts finished on 144-9 from their 45 overs. Although a defeat the fact that Swans kept their final wicket intact denied their opposition 5 valuable bonus points.
Sunday 12th August
Mike Nash played a chanceless run-a-ball innings of 96 to secure a crucial win for the Sunday 1st team. After winning the toss Swanage got first use of a fantastic batting wicket. The tone for the innings was set by a solid opening partnership of 51 between Nash and Dave Acklam. Nash was then joined by youngster Matt Thomas and together they added 88 with Thomas making a fluent 31 to build a perfect platform for a late innings assault. Nash was finally dismissed in the 35th over for a majestic 96 including 11 fours and a six as he struck the ball to all corners of Days Park. The innings accelerated still further with a rapid fire stand of 90 in 10 overs between Tom Wake-Walker (43*) and Ashley King (55), both hitting the ball with power to enable the hosts to record a massive 268-5 from their 45 overs. In reply the visitors never recovered from being reduced to 9-2 due to some superb seam bowling by Tim Edgar. Economical spells from Ricky King and Pete Barker meant the run rate spiralled out of control for the visitors. Edgar returned to rip out Wintons’ middle order and finish with a superb 6 wicket haul as the visitors ended up on 214-8. This convincing victory ensures that a promotion bid is still very much alive for Ron Barkers’ team.
The Sunday 2nd XI did not have a fixture.
Saturday/Sunday 18th/19th August
No match on Saturday due to rain.
Sunday
Mike Nash’s second consecutive score in the nineties helped ensure a vital victory to propel the Sunday 1stXI back into the second promotion place in their extremely tight, Division Four. After being inserted by their hosts Portland on a seaming wicket Swans’ got off to a solid start with a half-century stand between Nash and Matt Thomas who made a solid 29. Nash was then joined by Ben Baczala, together they produced a match-winning partnership of 152 at more than 5 runs an over before Baczala was out for 48 – his seventh score in the forties this season. Nash followed soon after for a majestic 95 smashing 13 fours and 2 huge sixes to enable Swans’ to compile a formidable total of 253-7 off their 45 overs. In reply, Portland were soon in trouble at 22-2 due to some fine bowling by Ron Barker and Paul Higham. Barker bowled continuously through his 12 over spell taking 3-31. The introduction of Pete Barker increased the pressure on the hosts still further, he bowled brilliantly and claimed 3 wickets to help reduce the hosts to 99-6. Higham returned to clean-up the tail and also bagged 3 wickets to restrict Portland to 150 all out. This victory moves the 1st XI back into second place with just 2 games to go with skipper Ron Barker knowing that 2 more comprehensive victories would be enough to secure promotion.
Although a wonderful innings of 82 from Lewis Kirby stole the show for the Swanage Sunday 2nd XI in their Division 6 encounter with Bournemouth it was sadly not enough to secure victory as the home side fell a tantalising 27 runs short of their 216 target. Displaying a sound mix of technique and temperament Lewis stroked 12 boundaries in his innings, including a magical square cut, though important contributions also came from Roger Wilcox , Adam King and Sam Price to enable the Swans recover from 20-2 to 175-6 to keep the pressure on the visitors. However, with overs running out and the quicker bowlers returning in the gathering gloom the Swan’s lost several further wickets and so had to content themselves with achieving a full haul of batting points, ending on 189-9 from their 45 overs. Earlier in the day the Swans bowled well with Terry White and Sam Price taking a brace of wickets and Robin Wilcox holding a difficult skied catch. Unfortunately however the visitors were adept at picking off the quick singles when they batted and this probably proved to be the difference between the sides.
Saturday/Sunday 25/26th August No match report currently available for the Saturday fixture on 25th August Sunday 26th August
This week, Ron Barker's side entertained Lychett in their latest Division 4 encounter. The hosts got off to a solid start with Nash and Nick Bishop putting on 56 for the first wicket before Bishop was bowled for a fluent 29. Nash was then joined by Tom Wake-Walker, together they added 82 at nearly six runs an over. They were both out in quick succession with Nash finally dismissed for a sparkling 79 which included 10 boundaries. The momentum was carried on by Ashley King who made a fluent 27 and Ben Baczala who struck his first half century for the 1st XI (53 not out) together they put on 54 to enable Swans’ to post a competitive total of 238-6 off their allotted 45 overs. In reply, the visitors’ were soon in trouble at 9-2 due to a fine opening spell from Tim Edgar. The visitors’ middle order played fantastically well and at 172-5 were well on course for victory until Edgar and Paul Higham returned to clean-up Lychetts’ lower order. Higham claimed 3-35 and Edgar 4-24 to reduce Lychett to 196 all out. This hard fought victory ensures that Swanage go into their final fixture knowing that another maximum 20 point haul will see Ron Barkers’ side promoted.
Also on Sunday the 2nd XI successfully chased 159 to win a close Division 6 encounter at Pokesdown Willows. Although this provided a welcome victory, the match proved to be much tighter affair than it should have been as the Swans lost their way in the middle order and failed to capitalise on a splendid 72 from Pete Dyer. Indeed, apart from a patient innings from Chris Carpenter (18) the Swans collapsed from 84-1 to 122-6 and defeat was looming against swing bowling. However, with overs running out it took a quick fire knock from Ben Cross (19) to create momentum again and some well judged blows from Terry White and Roger Wilcox finally secured a nervous two wicket win in the penultimate over. Earlier in the day the Swans did not sustain pressure on the home team as after reducing them to 73-6 a 7th wicket partnership of 74 enabled them to post a challenging target of 158 on a difficult wicket. Pete Barker (4-35) and Mike Wells (3-11) enjoyed most success with the ball though Richard Perry also rolled back the years and took a wicket with his first ball of the season.
Saturday/Sunday 2nd/3rd September
The Swanage Sunday 1 XI rounded off a fantastic season by clinching the competitive division four title at Dewlish, in their final match. This latest win completed a brilliant run of victories in which the side climbed from fourth to top by claiming 117 points out of a possible 120 from the last 6 games. In their latest game at Dewlish the hosts got off to a blistering start and at 96/2 were well set for a huge total until Ricky King came into the attack and bowled beautifully claiming 4 wickets from his 8 over’s. Tim Edgar came back into the attack and bagged 3 wickets as well as a blinding catch and when Paul Higham dismissed the danger man the hosts were soon skittled out for a below par score of 171. In reply Swanage started solidly with a stand of 51 between Mike Nash and Tom Wake-Walker. However, when Nash was bowled Ashley King and Wake-Walker then added a rapid 53 off just 9 over’s, King making a fluent 27 before his dismissal. This bought Ian Perry to the wicket and together with Wake-Walker they sped Swanage to a 8 wicket victory with a stand of 75 from just 8 Over’s. It was a magnificent way to end the season with Perry making a quick fire 32 to complement Wake-Walker’s majestic 80 not out, which included 13 boundaries. Skipper Ron Barker praised his teams attitude and fantastic spirit as the main factors behind winning the league.
A superb 137 from Matt Thomas ensured that the Sunday 2nd XI signed off their division 6 league season with an emphatic 113 run home win against Ibberton. But, it wasn’t all plain sailing as Matt initially had to help the Swans recover from the loss of three early wickets and they were teetering at 57-3. However, after steady partnerships with Lewis Kirby (15) and Chris Carpenter (16) he cut, drove and pulled some increasingly erratic bowling to all parts of the outfield to ensure the Swans posted a commanding 287-9 from their 45 overs. The Ibberton reply started with a flurry of boundaries and with 70 on the board in only 10 overs they were looking to make a game of it. However, after Abbot (60) and Newman (33) were dismissed by Sam Price and Dan White respectively the Ibberton batting fell away. Other wicket takers were Pete Barker (4-22) who almost took a hat trick and Mike Wells (3-15) who didn’t!
And finally, the Saturday 1st XI travelled to Corfe Mullen in their crucial last league game of the season, needing a victory to avoid relegation. The hosts started solidly but were pegged back by some fine bowling by Paul Higham who claimed 2 wickets. The hosts continued to score runs freely but at the same time lost wickets at regular intervals with Ben Baczala and Chris Leak also claiming 2 wickets a piece restricting the hosts to 213-8.. In reply Swanage got off to a flying start through Dave Dyer who struck a fluent 47 and James Harris in a partnership of 75, Harris was then joined by Paul Higham and together they added an unbroken stand of 95 to guide Swanage to a 7 wicket victory. Higham made 35 not out but the star was Harris who struck a majestic 97 not out inclusive of 15 boundaries insuring the sides status in Dorset Division 1.
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