Mahmood stuns Wollaton

The writer called in at Wollaton on his way back (whisper it) from watching the might Rams squeeze past Rotherham (whisper it again) in the opening fixture of the football league season. There seemed few grounds for optimism. Text messages told yours truly that we had scored a modest 166 with the last 4 wickets going down for 4 runs. Pleased to note that Maneesh Mishra had scored his first 50 of the season for the Firsts with a crucial 68. Mood at this cosey ground was bouyant as far as the home supporters were concerned as David Barr (55) and Tim Young (42) were ticking over and with drinks taken they were something like 115/2. Only one result? Captain Wako called a team huddle and no doubt was positive. If nothing else the wind was getting up and there was more than a sniff of rain in the air. You never know - rain might come to (undeserved) rescue. Decision made: go to Little Bounds for chat and drink and see the equally unpromising cricket taking place there - but see my report about that! The next thing we hear is a text from Simon George - well would you believe you of little faith, a 5 run win!!! Tariq Mahmood had weaved his magic for a stunning spell of probing seamers to take 6/49. Also worthy of note are the figures of evergreen Phil ("The Legend") Phil Lafbery: 10-1-19-1. Wollaton still had 12 overs to play with. A real smash and grab. The Firsts now hold a strong 3rd in "A" while Wollaton are looking nervously at the trap door.

Charlie George