Guilsfield ‘swinging in the rain’ to secure vital win

03/09/2025 @ 11:26

Opener Matt Knight hit a swashbuckling half century amidst the deteriorating conditions to secure Guilsfield & Llandrinio’s first win of the second half of the season at Bridgnorth II in Shropshire Division Three.

With rain forecasted, the teams agreed to a 25-over slog and Bridgnorth did just that, amassing 175-5 with Dave Williams taking three wickets for the villagers.

But batting through the rain, Knight hit a rapid 50 and Andy Flann (38), Adam Knight (27no) and Jordan Evans (26) also chipped in to secure a five-wicket win that lifts themk a few points clearer of second-to-bottom Church Stretton, who they meet on Saturday.

Welshpool’s home match with Division Three leaders St George’s II fell victim to the rain shortly after the visitors declared on 193-9 with Pool opening bowlers Dan Cadwallader (4-24) and Matt McWhinnie (3-24) in form.

Newtown clocked up 195 all out before the rain abandoned their match at Quatt in the Premier League. Sam Baugh was unbeaten on 79.

Montgomery’s Division Two promotion bid took a knock after suffering a three-wicket defeat at Ellesemere who chased down Monty’s 204-6 from 30 overs in just 28.1 overs.

Earlier, Andrew Barker (65) and Sam Williams (55) put Monty in a strong position, but their hosts got cracking and secured the win.

The big local derby in Division Four between Newtown and Llanidloes was abandoned shortly after play started.

But the derby in Division Six beat the rain, largely down to Rob Yewdall (4-15) ensuring Montgomery II bowled Welshpool II out for just 86. Elwyn Turner (32no) steadied the ship after early wickets fell to steer Monty to a seven-wicket win.

Guilsfield & Llandrinio II were awarded full points in Division Seven with Harcourt conceding the match.

Sunday’s brighter weather meant the local derby in Division Three could be played, resulting in champions Newtown IIIbeating neighbours Llanidloes II by 26 runs.

Charlie Evans (73) and Owain Jones (66) set champions-elect Newtown on their way to 209-6 before the bowlers restricted Llani to 189-7 from their 35 overs. Eogan Jones top scored with 61 and Callum Jones made 49.

FIXTURES:

Premier League

Newtown v Allscott Heath (at Oswestry)

Division Two

Lilleshall v Montgomery

Division Three

Sentinel II v Welshpool

Guilsfield & Llandrinio v Church Stretton

Division Four

Cound II v Llanidloes

Bomere Heath II v Newtown II

Division Six