Newton Aycliffe Cricket Club’s 1st team team sponsored by Franks progressed through to the quarter final of the NYSD League cup after an excellent 37 run home at home over Thornaby 2nd XI. Electing to bat first, Aycliffe totalled an impressive 134 for 6 in their 20 overs thanks to a brilliant 61 from makeshift opening batsman Michael Howe. Howe (photo attached) smashed 3 huge sixes and 3 boundaries in his innings and was given good support from fellow makeshift opener Matty Atkinson, who hit a useful 28 runs. In reply, Aycliffe seam bowler Ross Dixon finished with career best figures of 5 for 42 from an excellent 10 overs spell, to restrict Thornaby to just 97 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs.
In the league, Newton Aycliffe’s 1st team travelled to division 2 leaders Maltby 1st XI and were unlucky to only come away with a well earned winning draw. Electing to bat first, Aycliffe batted between showers and a long stoppage to reach a respectable 156 all out after 44.2 overs. Captain Chris Palmer top scored with 44 and there was other useful contributions from Sam Telford (42 not out) and Colin Myers and Graham Telford, who both scored 16.
In reply, Aycliffe bowlers Sean Morgan (3 for 24), Luke Telford (3 for 30) and Colin Myers (3 for 34) put Aycliffe in with a great chance of winning the match, but a defiant 10th wicket partnership from the homeside, saw them bat out the last 7 overs to snatch an undeserved draw for Maltby, who finished on 108 for 9 from the reduced innings of 36 overs.
All the games involving the club’s other teams were cancelled due to the rain and unfit grounds.