The Pro's End of Season Report
At the start there was a lot of talk about players leaving and a feeling that the team might struggle but from my own point of view having played here the previous season and seen the players in the dressing room and recognising the talent that there was, I knew a good start would build confidence and give us a good season.
There have been many highlights in the season, for me the two players that have developed the most are Gareth Evans and Roger Banks. Gareth's performances last season were those of a player who lacked self confidence and this season instead of thinking that he's a good player he now knows it. That's made all the difference. As far as Roger is concerned this year with the new ball he has been absolutely superb and I don't always think his figures have reflected how well he has bowled.
The team has been extremely well balanced this year and key players have performed. Stephen Twist has had a really good year but is still capable of doing more for the club. In my opinion he is the best all round cricketer in the league. All he has to do when things aren't quite going his way is to keep his head up and fight that little bit harder - remember Steve it's not all about luck.
The other player who has really impressed me is young Michael Baer who for 16 years old has a really good head on his shoulders. He works hard at his game and with a little more experience who knows what he might go on to achieve.
The experienced players this year in Adrian Darlington, Russell Bradley and Dave Bartholomew have all performed well especially when it has been needed which is vital in any team that has a nucleus of young players.
Our wicketkeeper Duncan Whalley has been superb all year and in the second half of the season has shown how dangerous he can be with the bat. It is a huge bonus for any cricket side no matter at what level to have a 'keeper who is a match winner with the bat. I think in seasons to come he will certainly win many more games for St Annes.
Unfortunately in every season there are guys who don't get as much opportunity as others. Dave Taylor and Adam Cotton have both had limited opportunities with bat and ball. Dave has bowled extremely well at times without much luck. He's an absolute pleasure to have in any team as you know that when you throw him the ball he will give 110% and as a captain that's all you can ask for.
Adam is probably one of the cleanest hitters of a cricket ball in the league and certainly possesses the potential to destroy any bowling attack. I think that when Adam realises that you don't always have to hit boundaries and that singles are just as important as well he will become a player that is extremely difficult to bowl to.
Special mention must be made of our groundsman Andy McKay who has produced an absolutely superb surface to play on - without a doubt the number one surface in the league. Thanks once again Grounders for all your hard work.
From my point of view I have mainly worked with the first and second teams and congratulations must go to Andy Kellett and the guys for winning the second division league title and unfortunately just missing out on the League cup final to Morecambe. It is good to know that there are quality second team players to put pressure on the first eleven for positions. This competition can only stand the club in good stead.
The two seasons I have spent with St Annes have been most enjoyable. I must make special mention of Russell Bradley for his on field advice. It has helped me immensly this past season. I would also like to thank everyone at St Annes for making my stay a really enjoyable one. I would like to wish you all the very best for the 2004 season. Thanks very much!
This season will see me playing for Eastern Province in Port Elizabeth and you will be able to keep track of my performances through their website.
Geoff Love
8th September 2003
Read about Geoff's 2002 season at St Annes
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