ABERGELE 82

RUTHIN 83-9

HE may only have scored four runs, but Olly Gray's late effort proved to be crucial during a victorious weekend for Ruthin.

Abergele was the destination for Ruthin's latest North Wales Cricket League Division One encounter.

In a low-scoring contest, Ruthin were staring at defeat when they were reduced to 79-9.

However, with the pressure really on, Olly Gray hit those priceless four runs to hand his side a one-wicket margin of success.

Earlier in the afternoon, Harry Pooler and Sion Hughes bowled really well on a wet wicket after skipper Rhys Hilditch won the toss and invited Abergele to make first use of the batting track.

With Ruthin starting in positive fashion, a great catch from Dafydd Hughes dismissed the dangerous David Moulson.

Solid spells from Llyr Williams and Josh Duckworth saw the run rate dry up and the hosts were eventually bowled out for just 82 in the 35th over.

Mike Thompson (18) was the leading scorer, while Harry Pooler (4-27) and Llyr Williams (3-13) shared the bulk of the wickets.

There were also victims for Sion Hughes (2-25) and Josh Duckworth (1-14).

The ball remained mightier than the bat when it was Ruthin's turn to respond after tea.

Abergele bowled really well on the wet wicket and the ball wasn't getting up.

Ruthin lost some early wickets, before Murray Whitehead (9) and Sion Hughes (38) dug in to move the score along.

Abergele captain Karl Higgins brought himself on to bowl, but his solitary over went for 14 runs to give the visitors the upper hand.

At 69-5, Ruthin looked assured of success, but four wickets from David Moulson saw the match back in the balance.

Ruthin were 79-9 when Gray came to the crease, still needing four to win.

He hit the first ball for two and then the next for a cross-slog two to win the game.

At the other end, Duncan Roberts finished up on a crucial 12 not out as Ruthin made 83-9.

Owen Lynam (5-23) and David Moulson (4-5) shared the wickets.