Match Report
St Annes produced an improved performance against a young Blackpool outfit although there were awkward moments with the bat when they slumped to 40 for 6 and later when they allowed Blackpool to race to 59 without loss.
Openers Mick Auty and Paul Wilks both received highly dubious decisions but both showed admirable sportsmanship in quietly "walking" and without fuss. As later wickets were carelessly lost, Nigel Connolly (59) and Matt Dougall (35) compiled an excellent, sensible stand of 72 to steer the team to calmer waters.
Although Dougall's first over promised a great deal, Blackpool quickly took charge and punished both him and Wilks whose spin suffered by bowling into a stiff breeze. Veteran Tom Heap with 3-28 and Connolly whose 7 overs cost a mere 9 runs showed the advantage of experience and control to rein them back and Dougall and Wilks both returned successfully at the end to capture a wicket each and ensure the St Annes total was enough.
