Summary of 1997 Season.

The statistics are as follows:

Played 14  Won 5 Lost 9

These stats rather hide what a good season this was for us. Clearly the
careful preparation of the team through the 96 season, where we concentrated
more on building a mature side than results, has paid off!

A number of players deserve special mention:

Jon Gowers once again topped the batting averages with some very good and
matching winning displays. Showing us more youthful members (below 40) how to
play. 

Second in the batting averages was Graham Rowbottom who's aggressive batting
together with his strong bowling often helped tilt the balance of a finely
posed game in our favour. 

98 was the season where Andy Yule showed us that he he could not only bat and
keep wicket but also could bowl, taking the 98 season bowling averages with 11
wickets and best figures of 4/28.

An unmentioned group leader had of course weakened the early season side by
posting David Yule to Eindhoven for 6 months on the rather shaky premise that
work for customers is more important than cricket! However, we successfully
recovered from this.

The high spot of the year was, for me personally, our win over Crawley Nalgo
as earlier in the season we had suffered rather heavily at their hands.  They
are a very good side and win against them is a clear achievement. The Horley
games are also worthy of mention. Although we, as usual, lost, they were great
fun to play in and we very much appreciate the chance to play on such a fine
ground with people who enjoy cricket so much. Thanks to Bernie for arranging
these games and his other work in supporting the club.

Overall a highly enjoyable season played in the right spirit. Thanks to all
those who contributed. 

Finally I would like to also extend thanks to Shirley and Dave Cooper for
ensuring that all scoring details no matter how uncomfortable where faithfully
recorded.  


Paul...