After their first win of the season over rivals Tondu last Saturday, the 1st XI travel to Pentyrch this week and field another unchanged team.

The 2nd XI will be looking to make it three wins out three at home to Pentyrch seconds.

Unfortunately for the 3rd XI, there will be no game ths Saturday as scheduled opponents St Peters have dropped out of the league.

Team selections as follows:

1st XI v Pentyrch (Away)                    2nd XI v Pentyrch (Home)               
Meet at Motherways, 11.15pm              Meet at ground, 11.45am

Stuart Morris *                                       Spencer Collier *
Grant Humphries                                    Ian Keen
Michael O'Shea                                       Peter Stanton
Alistair Dalton                                         Chris Bushell
Max Brown                                             Jamie Russell
St John Towell                                        Huw Miles +
Les Cutter                                              Rhys Clayton
Adam Weaver                                         Devlin Smith
Richard Morgan +                                   Tony Green
Darren Lingley                                        Rhodri Hopes
Dominic Mabbs                                       Colin Kelly

Scorer: Liz Woolley                                Scorer: Margaret Kelly

After a disappointing start last week at Sudbrook, Bridgend welcomed local rivals Tondu C.C. to Newbridge Fields.

Bridgend captain Stuey Morris won a vital toss and decided to bowl first. It proved a wise decision as the Town bowlers made the most of the pitch, sything through the Tondu batting line up to leave them with a total of 122. Spinners Mike O'Shea (3-16) and Darren Lingley (2-12) having the pick of the figures.

O'Shea once again proved his class with the bat, top scoring for Bridgend with a fine 47 and despite a little wobble in the Town middle order, skipper Stuey Morris (28 *) and keeper Dickie Morgan (24*) saw them home to a four wicket victory and the first win of the season. Match Report

The 2nd XI continued their fine start to the season with a six wicket win away at Miskin Manor. Despite old age setting in, Colin 'Geezer' Kelly continued his opening weekend form returning figures of 3 for 9 in 10 overs to dismiss Miskin for 110.

Bridgend skipper Spencer Collier (35) and Steve Hughes (41) helped Town reach the total with 16 overs to spare. Match Report

In similar fashion to last season, the 3rd XI were the victims of some bad weather with localised rain in Cardiff leaving the outfield in Whitchurch unplayable.

The 4th XI started this season's promotion challenge with a hard fought two wicket win over Cross Keys at Newbridge Fields. Cross keys won the toss and surprisingly decided to bat. Some tight bowling restricted them to 129-5 from their 45 overs. Chris Thomas taking 2-28 for Bridgend.

Despite a severley weakend batting line-up, the Town batsmen put in a fine all round performance with youngster Liam Callaghan making 21 to seal a well deserved victory.

The 1st XI face local rivals Tondu at Newbridge Fields on Saturday with an unchanged team from last week's defeat at Sudbrook.

Meanwhile, the 2nd XI welcome back skipper Spencer Collier and will be looking to continue last wee'ks form against Sudbrook, away at Miskin Manor.

Team selections as follows:

1st XI v Tondu (Home)                    2nd XI v Miskin Manor (Away)               
Meet at ground, 12.00pm                  Meet at Motherways, 11.15am

Stuart Morris *                                   Spencer Collier *
Grant Humphries                                Ian Keen
Michael O'Shea                                   Alun Bunston
Alistair Dalton                                     Steve Hughes
Max Brown                                         Jamie Russell
St John Towell                                    Huw Miles +
Les Cutter                                          Rhys Clayton
Adam Weaver                                     Devlin Smith
Richard Morgan +                               Tony Green
Darren Lingley                                    Rhodri Hopes
Dominic Mabbs                                   Colin Kelly

Scorer: Liz Woolley                            Scorer: Margaret Kelly

The 1st and 2nd XI's got off to wildy contrasting starts on Saturday with both teams playing their Sudbrook equivalents in the opening weekend of this season's fixtures.

The 1st XI, playing their first match in the Premier League after last season's long awaited promotion, suffered an 8 wicket defeat away at Sudbrook.

Afer reaching a promising 88-2, Bridgend collapsed to 106 all out. The only notable contribution coming from Town's Glamorgan star Mike O'Shea who made a classy 49. Match Report

There was better news for the 2nd XI who won their match at home to Sudbrook seconds by 8 wickets. Town bowled out Sudbrook for just 60 thanks to Colin Kelly (4-7) and Dev Smith (4-17), and knocked off the runs in the 23rd over for the loss of 2 wickets. Match Report

The 1st and 2nd XI's start their league campaigns this Saturday with both teams facing Sudbrook.

The 1st XI go into their first match in the Premier League at almost full strength, with Glamorgan's Mike O'Shea making his debut for the club.

Team selections as follows:

1st XI v Sudbrook (Away)                    2nd XI v Sudbrook (Home)               
Meet at Motherways, 11.00am               Meet at ground, 12.00pm

Stuart Morris *                                        Huw Miles*
Grant Humphries                                     Alun Bunston
Michael O'Shea                                        Ian Keen
Alistair Dalton                                          Steve Hughes
Max Brown                                              Peter Stanton
St John Towell                                         Jamie Russell
Les Cutter                                               Rhys Clayton
Adam Weaver                                          Liam Weller
Richard Morgan +                                    Devlin Smith
Darren Lingley                                         Rhodri Hopes
Dominic Mabbs                                        Colin Kelly

Scorer: Liz Woolley                                 Scorer: A.N Other

The club will be holding a players' registration night on Friday 11 April, 2008 commencing at 7.30pm.

This will provide an opportunity to:

a) to collect subscriptions 
b) ensure that our members records are up to date
c) outline to players forwared approaches and other matters agreed by the playing sub-committee
d) check availability/advise on net arrangements
e) advise on ECB accreditation

As well as allowing pre-season social bonding. The registration itself should only take an hour, so please make every effort to attend.

This year's indoor winter nets will start on Wed 6th Feb at Tondu Cricket Club, running from 8.30pm to 10.00pm for 10 weeks.

With the club facing one of the most competitive seasons in its history, a good attendance is vital and will benefit both your cricket and the club’s in the forthcoming season.

A quiz night will be taking place this Friday (25th Jan) at the clubhouse from 7.30pm.

Entry is 5 pounds per person which includes a buffet meal and prizes for the winning team.

Once again the club will be open for New Years Eve festivities.

In similar fashion to last year, this years theme will be a Casino night, with £5 admission per adult, which will give each person gambling chips to play with.

People are required to bring a plate of food for each adult, and doors will be open from 7.30pm.

Interested parties should contact Charlie on 01656 668176.

This years senior presentation evening will be held at the club on Friday 26th October starting at 7.30pm.

To cover the cost of organising the event, an entry fee of five pounds will be payable on the door. Included in this price will be a raffle ticket, one drinks voucher and a buffet after the event is over.

The Junior presentations will take place at the club on Sunday 28th October, starting at 1.30pm 2.00pm.

Bridgend competed in the annual St Fagans six-a-side on Sunday but were unable to progress past the initial group stages after narrowly losing both their games.

The side, captained by Huw Miles played Dinas Powys in their first game but came up 14 runs short of  Dinas' total of 78. They received a bye for their next match after Ponthir failed to arrive, but lost the third game on the last ball, to tournament hosts and eventual winners St Fagans 'A'. Match Report

Following one of the Bridgend's best seasons in recent history, club captain Stuey Morris posts his review of the season.

After the jubilation of last weekend’s successes start to fade, perhaps it is now time to reflect on just how far Bridgend Town Cricket Club has come in the past few years.

Only five years ago, the 1st XI languished in mid table of the second division of the South East Wales Cricket League, while the 2nd XI, although a Division One side that was competitive, never seemed likely of promotion. Take into account that the 3rd and 4th XI’s were struggling in division four of the Welsh Cricket Club Conference and the future didn’t seem particularly bright.

The turn around came in 2004 when the 2nd XI gained promotion to the South East Wales premier league and this undoubtedly gave the club a renewed enthusiasm. Subsequently, the 1st XI became Division Two champions in 2005, and the 4th XI won their league in 2006.

Clearly Bridgend Town Cricket Club now had the appetite for success, and I have never seen so much anticipation for a cricket season as that which was held before the start of the 2007 season. Therefore in some ways, it is no surprise that Bridgend managed to secure a unique double promotion this time around.

But enthusiasm and excitement are clearly not enough to ensure success. There has to be hard work and a great deal of talent to go with it, which without doubt Bridgend now have in abundance.

Any successful team has to be built around a core of star performers.  In Grant Humphries and Alistair Dalton,  Bridgend Town 1st XI have two who are out of the very top drawer. Humphries has pulverised bowling attacks for nearly 15 years since his arrival from Southerdown and he is without doubt one of the most successful and respected batsmen in South Wales League cricket. Dalton clearly has the pedigree and experience that no other player at Bridgend can match, and despite a number of years not playing, he came back to the club in 2006 and looked like he had never been away.

But there is now more to this side than just these two greats. In Adam Weaver and Richard Morgan, Bridgend have two players that would grace any other premier league team. The constantly good performances of Dominic Mabbs, Huw Kinsella, Darren Lingley and Les Cutter with the ball, while the vital contributions of Max Brown, St.John Towell, Chris Bushell, Kinsella, Cutter and skipper Stuart Morris with the bat, have all ensured that promotion to the premier league was not just something to be “dreamed” about, but a reality.

As for the 2nd XI (below), winning the division one league title for the second time in 4 years has been a fantastic achievement. It is particularly pleasing that the majority of players are home grown, which undoubtedly gives the likes of Charlie Griffiths and Jake Collier an enormous sense of pride, having coached the youngsters for years and given numerous hours of unpaid time to help run the club.



The 2nd XI has a great mix of young and “old”, and to win their last nine matches and secure the league title, shows an enormous amount of skill and commitment. Some consistently classy batting from Dan Allen, Marc Jones, Steven Hughes and Phil Cadogan, combined with the all round talents of Ross Stenner and Jamie Russell have created a wonderful platform.

All of the above are bound to push for first eleven places next season, but in Stenner, Russell and Allen the club have three teenagers who have a tremendous amount of time on their side to become regular first team players for years to come.

Mixed in with this youth, the consistently controlled bowling of Colin Kelly and Tony Green, have allowed that the likes of 16 year old leg spinner Devlin Smith to flourish. Consider the everlasting talents of Huw Miles, who each week flings himself to all parts of Newbridge Fields, and you get quite a formidable line up.

Keeping them all together has been the stable and steady hand of Spencer Collier who despite not making huge runs in 2007 has made telling performance when required, after taking over the reigns from the tireless Alun Bunston in early June.

The 3rd XI’s season somewhat disrupted by the rain, they still managed to produce some excellent performances, while the 4th XI were always challenging for promotion right up until the last few weeks of the season.

However all Bridgend’s successes this year on the field would not have been achieved without the incredible and unseen support off it. The ground looks as beautiful as ever, while Debbie and Craig still produce some of the best cricket teas in South Wales. From Marion’s countless hours behind the bar, Mark White’s shrewd judgement as the chair of selectors, the untiring support of club scorers Liz Woolley and Mags Kelly, the whole support of the “WAGS” and their off spring, the executive committee and of course Dai Dobbs, each and every member of the club can sit back and take pride in the fact that they have contributed to the most successful season in Bridgend Town’s history in the last 25 years, if not longer.

Just when you think it can’t get any better, add into this the arrival in late August (just in time to see promotion) of Luke Michael Humphries to Grant and Lesa, and Reed Lougher Morgan to Richard and Tracey, then it is fair to say that the season has been a wonderful and enjoyable success!

So, as a certain mobile telecommunications company would say “the future is bright”, but in a Bridgend Blue rather than Orange.

Whether you attribute the success to hard work, talent, an incredible club spirit or just the fact that the club has become something of a “cricket family”, a combination of all goes a long way to creating the right environment in which to play the game of cricket.

Wonderful achievement by one and all – winter well my friends!

Come on the Town!

First XI scribe

The club will be open today (Sat 1st) from 4pm for anyone and everyone wishing to celebrate the club's great success this season.

Rumour has it that drinks will be available at discounted prices and of a special champagne Pepsi Max challenge for club captain Stuey Morris.

After a week of nervous anticipation, Saturday finally arrived, with both first and second XI's requiring victory over Newport Fugitives to secure promotion. Neither team disappointed, each completing comfortable victories.

The results mean that both teams will play Premiership cricket next season. The first XI finishing as runners up in Division 1 and the second XI promoted as worthy champions of the second XI league.

At Newbridge Fields, in the absence of club captain Stuey Morris, Richard Morgan skippered the first XI to an emphatic 8 wicket win. After bowling Fugies out for 142, Grant Humphries (56) and Ali Dalton (42*) led Town home in the 25th over. Match Report

The second XI travelled to Newport Fugitives knowing that a win would secure promotion. Town decided to bowl first and restricted Fugies to 178-9 with Ross Stenner taking 3-32. Bridgend then took just 27 overs to knock off the runs thanks to some excellent batting by Stenner (82) and Marc Jones (50*).

The last game of a somewhat short season for the third XI was Blaina at home. Saving their best bowling performance of the season for last, the thirds restricted Blaina to 142 all out. With such a low total to chase, a third win of the campaign was in sight but a complete batting collapse led to Bridgend reaching only 89.

Thanks to the season's appalling weather the third XI completed just 8 games out of a possible 17.

By contrast the fourth XI have had some better luck with the weather and they finished their season strongly with a convincing 55 run win away at Llanwit Major.

Batting first, Bridgend reached 184-9 from their 45 overs with Alex Frew top scoring with 51. A strong Llantwit batting line-up thanks to the inclusion of several first XI players were then dismissed for 129. Chris Thomas taking a career best 5-28 and Paul Minchington 3-39. Match Report

With 7 wins under their belts this season, the fourth XI finished in fourth place in Division 3 - a good acheivement after being promoted last season.

The final weekend of the season promises to be a cracker with the first and second XI's both in line for promotion to the South Wales Cricket League Premier Division.

The first XI require just four points from their game at home against Newport Fugitives whilst the second XI will need to beat Fugies second XI away and take fourteen points.

With Stuart Morris away, father to be Dickie Morgan takes over the first XI captaincy and admitted "this could be the most important week of my life."

Good luck to both teams and for those playing away don't forget to come back to the club for celebratory drinks!!!

After a a lack of friendly fixtures this summer Bridgend managed to fit three into one day, two away at Cowbridge and one at home to Lisvane.

Due to a mix up with the organisation, the usual 1840 Cup match was split into two Twenty20 matches. Firstly a Bridgend Under 21 team captained by Adam Weaver took on their Cowbridge counterparts before a near full strength first XI took part in the main event against Cowbridge first XI, which was watched by a good size crowd.

Batting first, the under 21's scored an impressive 153, with skipper Weaver hitting a brisk 53. But the Town bowlers could not stop leaking runs and Cowbridge raced to a six wicket victory with 3 overs to spare. Match Report

The second match saw Bridgend bowl first and the 'Pride of Sarn' Darren Lingley helped restrict the home side to 103 taking four wickets in four overs.

After some good work by Ali Dalton (21), skipper Morris (14) and Alex Frew (14), Lingley secured his Watts and Morgan man of the match performance by nervelessly hitting the winning runs with one ball to spare. Match Report

The home fixture at Newbridge Fields against Lisvane was in the more sedate form of a 40 over match. Bridgend batted first and posted a respectable 160. A fine bowling performance then helped skittle out Lisvane for just 51 leaving Town to win by a distant 109 runs. Match Report

Saturday saw the first XI narrowly lose out to Pontypridd at Newbridge Fields. In front of a bumper crowd Bridgend batted first and scored 238-6 thanks to an unbeaten 121 from Ali Dalton.

But unfortunately for Town, Ponty's Jonathan Hughes was also in majestic form, hitting 99 and helping Ponty to a 3 wicket victory with 7 balls to spare. Match Report

Despite the loss, Town are still in second place and face a promotion decider away at third placed Barry next week.

The seconds faced Ponty away at Ynysangharad Park and delivered their seventh straight win to move them to top of the table. Like the first XI they face Barry next week with a win almost guaranteeing promotion.

After restricting Ponty to 180-9 from their 50 overs, Town reached their target in the 38th with opener Dan Allen top scoring with 68. Match Report

The third XI could be forgiven for thinking they've offended a higher power after yet another game was called off after opponents St Peters cancelled due to them being unable to field a side.

The fourth XI travelled to leaders Monkswood whom they'd beaten at Newbridge Fields earlier in the season.

On an excellent batting track Town mustered 225 thanks to Ian Henry (46), Alan Bunston (25), Alex Frew (24) and Captain Andy Marvell (24).

But they could not stop Monkswood, who reached the required total with two overs to spare for the loss of 6 wickets. Match Report

The first and second XI's both won again on Saturday meaning that with three games left they are both in excellent positions to gain promotion to their respective premier leagues.

The first XI increased their lead at the top of Divison One by beating  Abergavenny. After restricting the home side to 182-8 thanks to another fine all round bowling and fielding perfomance, Grant Humphries piled on the runs with the bat, scoring 81 and leading Town to victory. Match Report

At Newbridge Fields, the second XI moved into the top two promotion places after a comprehensive six wicket win over Croesyceiliog.

Town bowled the visitors out for 78 thanks to Suranga Dharmasiri (4-11), Ross Stenner (2-17) and Dev Smith (2-16). Bridgend reached 80-4 to complete a relatively easy six wicket victory. Steve Hughes top scoring with 26.

Away at Penarth, the third XI were bowled out for a lowly 107 by a strong Penarth side. Carl Moruzzi scored 33 and and skipper Jamie Morgan hit a quick 17 for Town.

Penarth took just twenty overs to get the runs leaving Bridgend on the wrong end of a seven wicket defeat.

The fourth XI were also due to face Penarth, but the once again the midweek weather intervened leaving the Newbridge Fields track unplayable.

On a sunny Sunday, Bridgend welcomed back Barry West End for their annual friendly match. Batting first Town scored 157-7 from their 40 overs, mainly thanks to Dan Allen (73*) and Steve Richmond (36).

Veterans Colin Kelly (3-11) and Rob Thomas (4-18) did the damage with the ball as Barry were bowled out for 136 in reply. Match Report

On Wednesday with barely a cloud in sight Bridgend headed west to St Helens to face Swansea who were captained by former Bridgend spinner Rhys Osborne.

After being bowled out for 181 in the 37th over, Bridgend then restricted Swansea to 169 for 9 from their 40 overs to complete a 16 run victory.

The St Helens track promised to be the best batting wicket many of the side had played on all season, so upon winning the toss, Captain Stuey Morris wisely elected to have a bat.

Max Brown and Jonny Ling opened for Bridgend and Swansea struck an early blow lulling Brown into a drive that ended up in extra cover's hands. This brought Huw Kinsella to the wicket and he and Ling added around 35 for the second wicket before Ling was stumped for 18.

Star all rounder Darren Lingley, promoted to the dizzying heights of number five looked in good touch playing "the shot of the day" with an exquisite cover drive for 4. At the other end, Kinsella moved onto 33 before dispatching the ball straight at mid wicket.

Captain Morris then entered the fray and he and Lingley both moved to double figures before falling in quick sucession to left arm spinner Buckley.

With a low total beckoning Chris Bushell (36) and Adam Weaver (45) came to Town's rescue putting on 90 for the second wicket. The damage was done by the time they both holed out, with the Swansea fielder at cow corner responsible for taking two top diving catches.

Bridgend ended the innings on 181 in the 37th over, just the wrong side of the 200 they had hoped for.

After filling up on another superb Swansea tea, Kinsella (0 for 8 from 4 overs) and Bushell (2 for 26 from 7 overs) headed up the Town attack with Bushell removing Swansea dangerman Phil Scott in the fourth over.

With bowling options galore at his disposal, Morris rotated the Bridgend attack at his leisure. Spinners Dev Smith (2 for 33 from 8 overs) and Rob Thomas (0 for 19 from 8 overs) were soon brought on and kept the pressure on Swansea who were beginning to fal behind the run rate.

Wickets fell at regular intervals and paceman Weaver claimed 2 wickets in a quick 4 over burst. Skipper Morris then came on for an over of darts before handing over to the experience of Brown and the seam-up of Iwan Bunston (2 for 30 from 5 overs). Swansea captain Osborne came to the wicket with seven wickets down and was forced to attack from the off with Swansea requiring over 8 an over from the last 10 overs. After making a quick 12 he was removed by a sharp stumping from Huw Miles off the bowling of Bunston.

At the other end Brown was happy to give the ball a bit of flight and was rewarded with figures of 1 for 30 from 4 overs. He might have had another but Darren Lingley was unable to hold onto a superb full length diving catch. It would have been worthy of many a slow-mo replay but for the intervention of his nose which knocked the ball clean out of his hands and onto the St Helens turf.

Town were unable to claim the last Swansea wicket and they ended up 16 runs short of the Town total on 169 for 9 wickets.

With the sun finally shining, for a while at least, all four Saturday teams finished victorious, with the 1st XI putting in a superb performance to beat Cefn Fforest by 8 wickets at Newbridge Fields and go top of the league.

After bowling Fforest out for 122, Town took just 18 overs to reach the target with Grant Humphries (53) and Max Brown (32) leading the onslaught. Match Report

The 2nd XI closed the gap on the top two in the league with a resounding 146 run win away at Whitchurch.

Batting first Bridgend scored 214-8 from their 50 overs thanks to Ross Stenner (49) and Jamie Russell (42 not out). Pacemen Colin Kelly (4-11) and Tony Green (3-12) left Whitchurch reeling on 25-7 before they finally fell for 68.

Away at high fliers Monksood, the 3rd XI finally managed to get a game and pulled off a well earned 1 run victory. Bridgend batted first and scored a respectable 215-8. James Townley top scoring with 46, Adrian Daniel followed closely behind with 39 and Ian Keen (32) and Carl James (26) adding the rest of the runs.

With 7 required from the last over, Liam Weller kept his nerve bowling in heavy rain to give Town the win. Match Report

The 4th XI faced Lisvane at home and pulled off thier sixth win of the season, by 16 runs. Bridgend batted first and scored 155-9 thanks to Captain Marvell who was unbeaten on 36 when he was forced to retire hurt with a cut to the head after being struck by a beamer.

Some excellent fielding in wet conditions forced Lisvane into five run-outs which left them on 139 all out. Huw Roberts (2 for 7 from 4.4 overs) and Alex Frew (2 for 26 from 8 overs) did the rest of the damage with the ball. Match Report

Yet another week of rain meant only the Fourth XI were able to complete a fixture, with them playing Barry Wanderers at Newbridge Fields. Following several narrow wins in recent weeks their luck finally ran out, losing by 1 run after requiring 9 from a nailbiting final over.

Winning the toss, Captain Marvell has no hesitation in inserting the Wanderers. Some tight Bridgend bowling and fielding restricted them to 142-8 from their 45 overs with Alex Frew claiming 3-18 from 8 overs.

In reply Bridgend got off to a terrible start losing their first 5 wickets for 50 runs. But Marvell played a Captain's innings hitting 62 not out but Bridgend fell just short of the finishing line. Match Report

The top two Bridgend teams contiuned their promotion charges after beating Hoovers both home and away on Saturday. The Third and Fourth elevens did not fair as well, losing to Monkswood and Blaengarw respectively.

After losing to Barry two weeks ago, the First XI finally got the chance to get back to winning ways as the rain clouds held off long enough for them to beat Hoovers by 124 runs.

Bridgend elected to bat first on what looked like and proved to be an excellent wicket. Openers Grant Humprhies and Max Brown put on 198 for the first wicket, with Humphries scoring 89 and Brown blasting a memorable 120, that included 7 sixes. Bridgend finished on 265-8 from their 50 overs.

The Town bowlers were again on top form, dismissing Hoovers for 131, giving Bridgend victory and another 20 point maximum. Match Report

At Newbridge Fields the Second XI also put in a great performance against the Hoovers second string. Bridgend bowled first and dismissed the visitors for 83 with Colin Kelly again giving nothing away, taking 1-13 from 10 overs, Andy Jones bowled 10 overs for 18 taking 1 wicket and Doctor Suranga Dharmasiri, straight back from finishing his medical degree claimed 4-8 from 4.5 overs.

Bridgend knocked off the runs for the loss of just one wicket with Peter Stanton (33*) and skipper Spencer Collier (22*) guiding the team home. Match Report

Playing their first game in over a month thanks to some appalling weather, the Third XI were home to leaders Monkswood. After winning the toss Bridgend inserted the visitors who cruised to 248-4 from their 45 overs. A strong wind seemingly afftecting the Town bowlers who lacked any consistency throughout the innings.

In reply Bridgend managed 203-7 with Adrian Daniel (51) and Alan Bunston (52) scoring the bulk of the runs with a 120 run fourth wicket partnership. But thanks to some tight bowling Bridgend were never up with the required run rate and fell some 45 runs short after their 45 overs. Match Report

Away at Blaengarw, the Fourth XI found the going tough. Thanks to some good bowling they restricted the home side to 157. Paul Minchington took 2-37 from 12 overs and in doing so claimed his 100th wicket for the club. He then proved a dab hand with the bat, joint top-scoring on 24 along with Andrew Osbourne and Richard Lewis.

No-one else could muster any runs and Bridgend fell some 48 runs short of the Blaengarw total, all out for 109. Match Report

Another week of appalling weather accounted for the clubs away fixtures this weekend. The First XI were unable to play at Newport Fugitives but still move up to third place in the table, following Barry's victory at Rogerstone, but a must win game awaits them next week away at Penarth.

A frustrated Third XI saw both their weekend games called off - Saturday's fixture at Caerphilly and Sunday's match at Blaina.

Luckily the rain stayed away from Newbridge Fields allowing the Second XI to record their third victory in succession against the Fugies seconds by 7 wickets.

And in yet another nailbiter, the Fourth XI narrowly overcame Pentwyn by 1 wicket with and an over to spare.

With Fugies looking particularly keen to get one over on Bridgend, skipper Spencer Collier won a vital toss and inserted the visitors. Fugies had no answer to the Bridgend attack who put in their best bowling performance of the season to dismiss Fugies for just 125.

Jamie Russell took 3-29 from his 10 overs, while Colin Kelly bowled a remarkable spell of 10 overs that included five maidens, conceding just 6 runs, and a claimed a well deserved wicket.

Bridgend chased down the total for the loss of  3 wickets with Dan Allen (56) looking in great touch. Next week's fixture is a crucial game at home to table toppers Pentyrch. Match Report

The Fourth XI came close to throwing away a match that was theirs for the taking. After dismissing Pentwyn for 142 thanks to Tim Bushell (4-12) and Paul Minchington (4-30), Bridgend reached 60-1 before the wickets began to tumble.

Thankfully for the second week running, Jonny Ling (30 not out) stayed at the crease until the end to see Town home with 1 wicket and an over to spare. Match Report

For those of you who don’t know, club captain Stuart Morris has entered the Great North Run which will take place on Sunday 30th September 2007.

Stuart is running this on behalf of Marie Curie Cancer Care. Marie Curie Cancer Care provide high quality nursing, totally free, to give terminally ill people the opportunity to live the remaining days of their lives at home, supported by their families.

He has a target of raising £400 and anything that you can spare will be greatly appreciated for what is an excellent cause. You can sponsor him online at: http://www.justgiving.com/mozzasrun or alternatively see Stuart at the club most Saturdays after the game.

Training is going well at present, although a sprint finish is still questionable!

Thank you in advance for your kind donations!

After four straight victories, the First XI were brought back down to earth with a bump on Saturday, losing to Barry at home by 50 runs.

Bridgend welcomed back opening bowler Adam Weaver into the team and after winning the toss he quickly left off where he finished last season, reducing Barry to 24-2.

However Barry pressed on and reached a reasonable 180-5 from their 50 overs.

In reply, Bridgend found the going tough and could not seem to gain any momentum. Only in-form Ali Dalton (27) and Chris Bushell (30) offered any glimmers of hope before Town were finally dismissed for 130 in the 45th over. Match Report

Meanwhile, in the reverse fixture at Barry Island, the Second XI showed some impressive form with the bat, scoring  272-7 from their 50 overs. Marc Jones continued his comeback, giving several of the Barry fielders unwanted trips to the beach with a blistering 80, while Dan Allen (64) and Phil Cadogan (64 not out) offered good support with some much needed runs.

With such a large total, Bridgend were always in control of the match and kept Barry at bay with some fine bowling. Dan Boyle taking 3-45 to leave the home side 47 runs adrift (sorry I'm on a rolll!) on 225-9.

The Third XI match at the university playing fields in Cardiff was once again the victim of the weather.

Meanwhile the Fourth XI took on Monkswood at Newbridge Fields. Bridgend inserted the visitors on a track offering plenty of hope to the bowlers. But Bridgend failed to take advantage, putting down numerous chances in the field and allowing Monkswood to reach 194-9 from their 45 overs. Veterans Howard Ling (3-32) and Paul Minchington (3-30) doing the damage with the ball.

With a strong batting line-up Bridgend had every chance of reaching this total and got off to a great start with Alan Bunston (36) and Carl Moruzzi (26) reaching a 50 partnership for the second wicket.

Once these wickets fell it was left to in-form Jonny Ling to see Bridgend home. With some top support from the tail, Ling hit 58 not out to see Bridgend home by 1 wicket with four balls to spare. Match Report

Now that the season is in full swing I feel that is important to just re-iterate our intentions for the Cricket Club this season.

At the presentation evening last year I stressed the need for the first XI and second XI to gain promotion to the premier league. This will provide quality cricket for our current senior club members and be something for our well established youth sections to aim to be a part of. Furthermore, Bridgend having two teams in the top league should attract further quality cricketers to the club, which will only increase the strength of the teams down the sides. Therefore promotion for both teams remains a top priority!!

The third and fourth XI’s both enjoyed success last season and I recognise the need for this to continue as these teams have provided the opportunity for many to gain selection into the top two teams. To this end we hope that the third XI is once again challenging for promotion and that the fourth XI ensures that they remain in the new league.

Our Youth sections joined the South Wales Cricket Association last year and I am sure we will start to see the benefits of an under 16 competition in the years to come.

The Ladies’ section continues to go from strength to strength and they have a strong playing base. They are a valuable asset to the club and must be supported, despite not having the appropriate opposition they require at times. Any ideas in this area will be greatly appreciated.

It is quite clear that in the past couple of seasons Bridgend Town CC has enjoyed something of a purple patch. All teams have been performing well and that is only down to you the Club members, officials and support staff.

This is a period that we should all be embracing and enjoying as a club, although I understand that it can be frustrating for players when there is regular movement between the sides or in many cases not being able to get a game on a Saturday.

Competition for places in all sides is vital to maintain and improve the playing standards of club cricket in Bridgend, and ensure that Bridgend continues to flourish as a cricket club.

Therefore I would like to urge all players to continue making themselves available and accept that there will be times when they find themselves in teams that they do not expect to be, especially where they may feel that they have not had the necessary chances to prove themselves. This is indicative of a successful playing member’s base. If you are selected in a side that you did not expect to be in, please do not see it as a sign of rejection or become despondent. Use it as an opportunity to get runs, take wickets and most of all enjoy it!! Your performance will benefit the side and club as a whole and performances are always taken into account when selecting teams for the following Saturday. In this process of strengthening, we are at pains to ensure that the club, and the spirit of the club, remains as inclusive as ever.

To this end the selection committee will continue to select teams based on ability, proven performance, current performances, regular attendance at practice and supporting the club off the field, as well as attempting to ensure that a good balance is maintained in each of the Saturday XI’s.

With the playing base expanding all the time, moves are now being made to set up a fifth XI if there is enough interest, as well as competitive Sunday XI fixtures. If anyone is interested in taking this forward, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Practice is still very poorly attended at senior level. I would also like to take this opportunity to remind people that 1st and 2nd XI practice is on a Tuesday evening from 18:30 and a general club night is Thursdays from 18:30. Good quality practice ensures that players remain at the top of their game and it is also an excuse not to watch Eastenders and Big Brother!

We are all in this together!

Good luck to you all in the coming weeks

Stuey

The First XI moved to the top of Division One of the South Wales Cricket League after a 71 run victory over Pontypridd an Ynsyngharad Park on Saturday.

Grant Humphries (left) entertained the sizeable crowd with a batting masterclass, scoring 135, and with Ali Dalton hitting a fine 60 and Les Cutter 44 not out, Bridgend finished on 298-5 from their 50 overs.
 

Recently released Glamorgan batsmen Jonathan Hughes led the Ponty reply before being removed for 52 by 'Sensible' Les.

From then on Bridgend looked in control of the match thanks to some excellent bowling and a huge effort in the field. They dissmissed Ponty for 227 with Les finishing with 4-53 and the 'Pride of Sarn' Darren Lingley 2-48. Match Report

The Second XI completed the double over Pontypridd, beating them by 74 runs at Newbridge Fields. Bridgend batted first and reached 260-5 thanks to Steve Hughes (83), Jamie Russell (94 not out) and Marc Jones (38).

Ponty were bowled out for 176 with Dev Smith claiming 3-44 and Andy Jones (2-40).

Also at home under the sunshine were the Third XI who faced a strong Penarth side.

With the temperature approaching 30 degrees and the pitch looking good for batting, Bridgend inserted themselves and were in sight of a large total with Carl James (66) and Jonny Ling (50) putting on 110 for the fourth wicket. But after losing their last seven wickets for twenty runs they finished on a disappointing 196.

In reply Penarth found runs hard to come by and were well behind the required rate after twenty overs. But the arrival of Rob Crimp proved the turning point as he hit 80 not out in double quick time to guide Penarth home to a seven wicket victory. Huw Roberts (3-31) picking up all the wickets for Bridgend. Match Report

The Fourth XI playing the equivalent Penarth side lost the toss and were promptly made to suffer in the heat as Penarth raced to 281-5 from their 45 overs.

Bridgend then slumped to 96 all out with only Alex Frew (33) making a fight of it. 

New club shirts (as modelled by the 1st XI) are now available and priced at 25 pounds.

If you would like one please add your name to the list on the club notice board and pay by June 30th. Alternatively you can contact Stuey Morris or Ali Dalton.

This year's membership subs are now due and can be given to team captains. Cheques made payable to Bridgend Town Cricket Club.

» Senior playing members - £30.00
» Unwaged playing members - £20.00
» Members in full time education - £15.00
» Under 16's - £10.00

The 1st XI made it three wins in a row and moved up to second place in Division 1 of the South Wales Cricket League, after beating Abergavenny by 6 wickets at Newbridge Fields on Saturday.

Bridgend inserted Abergavenny and despite a poor start managed to dismiss the visitors for 169, thanks to some excellent bowling from Les Cutter who took 4-13.

After losing Dan Allen in the first over, run machines Grant Humphries and Ali Dalton were brought together and despatched Abergavenny with ease.

Humphries (52) and Dalton (68) added 99 for the second wicket before succumbing, allowing Huw Kinsella (18*) to hit the winning runs with 13 overs to spare and securing another maximum of 20 points for Bridgend. Match Report

Following last weeks narrow defeat at the hands of Whitchurch, the 2nd XI were looking to put things right with a win away at Croesyceiliog. Batting first Bridgend edged their way to a below par 171 with the loss of 9 wickets. Only Max Brown finding any form with the bat, top-scoring with 44.

Croesceiliog then proceeded to knock the runs off, losing only 2 wickets. The only Bridgend bowler to trouble the Crosey batsmen was Colin Kelly with 2-31. This leaves Bridgend with alot of work to do to challenge for the two promotion spots and a must win game looms next week against Pontypridd at Newbridge Fields.

Also producing the 3rd win in a row were the 4th XI who overcame Lisvane by 4 wickets on Saturday. Lisvane were dismissed for 160 with Paul Minchington (4-33) and James Townley (3-6) claiming the bulk of the wickets.

With a strong batting line-up Bridgend always looked favourites for the win and Alex Frew (36) and Alun Jenkins (28) did not dissappoint, knocking off the runs in their usual quick scoring manner.

Due to the odd number of teams in their division, the 3rd XI had no league fixture but played a high quality friendly match against St Fagans V's. Chasing St Fagans' 246-5, Bridgend put in an excellent batting performance with Carl James blasting 82 and Carl Moruzzi hitting 50 leading Town to victory with 2 overs to spare. Match Report

The 1st XI collected maximum points by making it two wins out of three this season on Saturday, beating Cefn Fforest by 139 runs.

With Richard Morgan standing in as Captain for the absent Stuart Morris, Bridgend were asked to bat. With Grant Humphries (79) back in top form and St John Towell smashing 55 from 27 balls, Bridgend amassed 252-6.

The Bridgend attack then proved far too good for Fforest with Dom Mabbs taking 2-33, Darren 'the pride of Sarn' Lingely 3-14 and Les Cutter 3-22, dismissing the host for 113. Match Report

Meanwhile at home, the 2nd XI fell 5 runs short chasing Whitchurch's 177-8. After an early batting collapse left Bridgend 50-4, skipper Alun Bunston (24) and Jamie Russell (43) set about repairing the damage. With 16 required from the last over, a tense finish was ensured. Andy Jones (17*) produced some big hitting to leave town 5 runs short after the 50 overs.

Away at Mountain Ash an understrength 3rd XI were bowled out for 123. Jonny Ling anchored the innings with a fine 39, with Alex Frew and Jamie Morgan (both 19) offering some support.

Mountain Ash started strongly but wickets fell quickly as Town upped the pressure. But in the end Bridgend's lack of runs proved their downfall as Mountain Ash inched over the finishing line. The pick of the bowlers were Kerry Brett who took 2-24 and spinner Tim Bushell 2-16.

The 4th XI also claimed their second victory of the season with a 5 wicket victory over local rivals Pencoed. Pencoed batted first and were restricted to 198-9 thanks mainly to a vintage performance from seamer Howard 'Harry Lime' Ling who took 5-43.

Bridgend then knocked the runs off with ease. Andrew 'Ozzy' Osborne hitting 54 and Richard Lewis continuing his fine form, top scoring with 94*, guiding Bridgend to 202-5 and victory.

After a three week wait for a fixture due to some awful weather, the First XI got their first win of the season under their belts, trouncing Brecon by 8 wickets at Newbridge Fields.

Bridgend dismissed Brecon for just 122, with a lively Huw Kinsella (left) claiming 3-22, St John Towell (2-10) and Chris Bushell (2-36).

Bridgend's batsmen were in fine form and they cruised to victory in the 37th over with Ali Dalton on 48 not out and Kinsella undefeated on 41. Match Report. 

A week of poor weather prevented the Second XI from continuing their promotion hunt. Their match at Blackwood being called off early on Saturday morning.

The Third XI, playing their first home game of the season were soundly beaten by Caerphilly and Bedwas who amassed 230-3, then restricting Bridgend to 156-8 from their 45 overs. Only Adrian Daniel finding any form with bat, top scoring with 70. Match Report.

The Fourth XI also found the going tough facing Barry Wanderers away. Bridgend restricted Barry to 170-7, with Simon Swinford claiming 3-28 from 12 overs. But Bridgend collapsed to 48-9, but Swinford (12) and Adam Davies (11 not out) made Barry wait for victory putting on 25 for the last wicket and pushing Bridgend to 73 and a 97 run defeat. Match Report.

The second XI were the only team to play on Saturday as the week of poor weather took its toll on the other club fixtures.

Facing Ponthir at home, Bridgend scored 172-5 batting first, in a match reduced to 40 overs. Steve Hughes top scoring with 46. Ponthir made a game of it and reached 159-9. Devlin Smith was in the wickets again taking 5-30 off seven overs and leading Bridgend to a 19 run victory. Match Report.

Following three weeks of glorious weather, Bridgend's cricketers finally got their season underway with each of the four teams in action this weekend.

Saturday saw the 1st and 2nd XI's lose out to promotion rivals Penarth and Pentyrch, whilst there was better news for the 3rd and 4th XI's who beat Croesceiliog III's and Great Western II's respectively.

Facing Penarth at home proved a stern test for the 1st XI who were dismissed for only 125 after being 85-2, but they made Penarth work hard for their victory. Some good bowling taking 5 wickets and forcing Penarth to use 41 of their alotted 50 overs. Match Report

Meanwhile the 2nd XI travelled to Pentyrch who were also relegated last season. Bridgend were unable to defend their 202-8, from 50 overs, not helped by some poor bowling that gifted 63 extras. Steve Hughes top scoring with 60. Match Report

The 3rd XI pulled off a comfortable win away at Croesyceiliog to finish the first weekend of the season sitting at the top of the table. Bridgend scored 225-4 thanks mainly to Steve Richmond (62*) and Pete Barry (also 62*). They then dismissed Croesy for 173 with Tim Bushell taking 4-34. Match Report

After finishing last season as champions for Division 4, the 4th XI began life in Division 3 with a win over rivals Great Western. Bridgend batted first and finished 153 all out with former Cowbridge batsman Richard Lewis top scoring with 62. Great Western were then dismissed for 98 with veterans Howard Ling (3-20) and Paul Minchington (2-11) accounting for 5 wickets  and debutant Simon Swinford showing excellent promise by taking 4-16. Match Report

Bank holidays Monday's weather prevented the 1st XI from getting their first win of the season under their belts agaisnt Hoovers with the game being called off before a ball was bowled.

The 2nd XI did manage to play as they faced Hoovers away. Bridgend racked up 180-4 thanks mainly to Alun Bunston (42) and Steve Hughes (69). Hoovers were bowled out for 85 thanks to a great all round bowling and fielding performance. Young leg spinner Devlin Smith was the pick of the bowlers with 3-9 off 9 overs. Match Report

 

Bridgend warmed up for the forthcoming season on Saturday with a comfortable 77 run victory over aspiring local rivals the Vale.

Bridgend amassed 190-4 from their 40 overs with birthday boy Ali Dalton contributing the bulk of the runs with a classy 110. The Vale, missing several first choice players were bowled out for 113 with the wickets shared amongst the Town bowlers.

To celebrate his impending walk down the aisle Spencer would like to invite all his friends at the club to join him for a weekend of relaxation in the Hungarian capital of Budapest.

The festivities will be taking place during the last weekend of October with costs likely to be similar to last years Estonia tour.

"Like the two harmonious halves of marriage, bride and groom, Budapest (pronounced Buda-Pesht) is made up of two complementary sides - Buda and Pest, spliced by the River Danube."

"This stunning example of proud european identity is the perfect city in which to celebrate the stag's impending walk down the aisle. It has all the ingredients that make for a top notch stag weekend - a multitude of bawdy boozers, a physical outline that takes the breath away and a wicked approach to burning the Hungarian candle at both ends."

If you would like to attend what is sure to be an unforgettable weekend please register your interest as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Further details will be posted on the website as soon as they are available.

This year's mens outdoor nets start tomorrow night (Thursday) at 6.45pm with some pre-season fielding practice. Full outdoor nets will start next Tuesday at 6.30pm.

There will also be one pre-season friendly on Saturday 28th April away against The Vale.

The club would like to congratulate 1st XI wicket keeper Richard Morgan on becoming 2007's Welsh Letting Agent of the Year.

Richard attended the annual ceremony at The Savoy in London last Tuesday and was presented with his award by TV presenter and close friend Phil Spencer.

After picking up the Welsh Agent of the Year, Richard also pulled off the surprise of the night by walking away with the runner's up spot for the UK's Letting Agent of the Year, making it a crisp double for the Watts and Morgan firm.

The awards were voted for by Richard's customers, who praised his hardwork, dedication and personal touch. Mr L of Sarn, Bridgend congratulated Richard on his "outstanding professionalism and for providing a first-rate service."

The 2007 league fixtures are now available on the website, with the season kicking off for all teams on Saturday 5th May.

The 1st and 2nd XI start off with particularly tough fixtures, with the 1st XI starting at home to last season's relegated Penarth and the 2nd XI travelling to a most probably windy Pentyrch.

After promotion last season, the 4th XI start against old rivals Great Western and the 3rd XI face Mountain Ash away.

Details of friendlies and other fixtures will be updated as soon as they are known.

Good luck to all teams in 2007.

Junior winter nets are now taking place on Sundays at the sports hall in Ogmore Comp. Under 13-16 from 10.00 -12.00 costing 2 pounds and Under 12's from 3.00- 4.30 costing 1.50 pounds.

Mens winter indoor nets will commence Tuesday 6th Feb from 8-10pm at Tondu Cricket Club.

There is a club Family Open day on Saturday Sept 9th with the aim of getting as many club members down as possible. Each team will have a photo - 1st - 4th - Ladies and Youth section, as well as one large club photo.

Therefore players will need to bring their whites (including a club shirt – not Lloyds Bank!)

You will be able to change back to normal clothes straight afterwards.The day will probably tie in with the official opening of the club net facility. There will also be a BBQ etc...

All those going on the Estonia tour a cheque for 35 pounds is required by Saturday to cover the cost of our shirts and caps. Please make cheques payable to BTCC.