Norton’s indifferent season continued with a loss at Old Bristolians Westbury last Saturday. Bowling first in slightly damp and cloudy conditions, Norton’s bowlers struggled for consistency. After a couple of wides in the first over, Potter removed Taylor, thanks to a great slip catch by Sam Gould.
Hampshire removed the dangerous Swetman with the first ball of his spell before Old Bristolians’ middle order steadied the ship and batted sensibly in the conditions. The introduction of Harry Veale, on debut, saw him remove overseas player, Woolley, with an arm ball in his first over. His very encouraging first spell of off spin at this level ended with 1 for 21 from ten overs. Some sloppy fielding meant chances weren’t taken, although the Old Bristolians were eventually bowled out for 211 in the last over, Potter the pick of the bowlers with four wickets for 31 runs.
The run chase began well, with Lear and Pang again giving Norton great impetus in the powerplay before Lear was removed for 29. Pang carried on to hit his third half century of the season at faster than a run a ball, but after his dismissal Norton failed to get any partnerships going. Griffiths and Barrington’s off spin picked up four wickets each, while Norton slumped to 155 all out in 35 overs.
The last game of the season is once again upon us, with the Bath Second XI travelling to Withies Lane this Saturday with Norton hoping to end the season on a high. The Second XI travel to Portishead for their final league fixture of the season, where they are hoping to secure the top of the table spot after gaining promotion last weekend. The Third XI are at home to Nailsea.
The Sunday side travel to Keynsham for their penultimate league fixture of the season.
Charlie Matthews