The cricket field at Tuck Mill is almost looking excited today as the first rain its seen for a few weeks has fallen, albeit not the huge dolloping we’d like but beggars cant be choosers.
Fullsys Allstars strode confidently into town on 15th July and as it turned out, they were right to look so confident ! After the Millers had posted a below par 105-6 with Ralph Cook unbeaten on 30 and Mark Hammett 18, Fullsys unleashed a genuine Allstar in the shape of Exeter City FC manager Matt Taylor . Unfortunately for our own overseas superstar, Fred Brauer, Matt’s arrival at the crease coincided with Fred’s first bowl of the summer, which was a slight mismatch. Needless to say, Fred’s short spell went for something over 30 runs with Taylor safely retired in the pavilion, although it says something about the mans character that he then went to assist Fred the Younger in locating the balls he’d smashed into and beyond the River Tale. We lost by 8 wickets.
Due to firstly, a player shortage in the opposition and secondly,an admin error by our or their fixture secretary, we then went two and a half weeks of fine weather without a game – the committee are now reviewing the fixtures secretary’s position but are a bit scared that they will have to do the job themselves if they sack him.
We resumed with another home game against our friends from Clyst Hydon. A welcome return to form followed for the Millers, after Clyst posted a competitive 131-9, including A – wait for it – TRIPLE WICKET HAT TRICK MAIDEN (at least I think that’s what its called) by Shane Tout , from the top side of the village. Top work Shane ! Millers made a bright start to the response with Jon Pengelly biffing three sixes in a quick fire 25 and Sam Franks retiring on 25 before local farmers Ben Peters and Ruaridh Harrison (otherwise known as Rory) finished the game off. Chef Eduardo served up some superb roast pork baps and roast spuds to bring a warm and pleasant evenings entertainment to a close. This was quickly followed up by another home win against The Blacksmiths and Artizans – nothing to do with The Blacksmiths Arms just for clarity – with Mark Hammett returning 3-3 from his two over spell in a Blacksmiths total of 124-7. Also worth noting that debutante Katie Tout made several vital interventions in the field, one unfortunately resulting in a nasty bruise to her thumb, very well played Katie ! A nine wicket win ensued.
Sadly, another season will shortly draw to a close, giving time for our ageing squad to nurse their wounds and hopefully return full of vim and vigour next April – we live in hope 😊
Our End of Season celebration will involve a small sided cricket match and bbq with awards ceremony at the ground on Friday 9th September at 6pm, all are welcome and bar, of course, will be open !
Jon
Tale Millers CC
