A well played two games by the U13s on the Regional Finals at Neston Cricket Club in Cheshire saw us edged out in the semi-final but securing third place in the play-off.

The first game against the Scottish champions, Grange CC, was a tough test. Electing to bowl first we limited them to 108, but that included 21 extras due to some tight umpiring. Some excellent bowling all round, with first ball wickets for both Sam Huges and Sam Higton. The bowling of Grange, however, was outstanding and limited Ellerslie to just 56 all out, which unfortunately meant we lost and therefore didn’t make the Final.

In the 3rd/4th play off we made a much better start despite the damp conditions. Our early batsman built us a steady lead before we pushed on for a decent 130. Some excellent bowling from us kept our opponents from Sunderland under control as we took six wickets while limiting them to 58 before heavy rain set in. The match was then abandoned due to the weather but with the reply on the tenth over, Duckworth Lewis ensure a third placed finish for Ellerslie.

Well done to all the boys who took part - and parents for taxi and other duties! You did the club proud and it was a real achievement to reach this stage of the competition.

Thanks to Lisa Wakefield for this report.