Run of wins comes to end (From Free Press Series)

Run of wins comes to end

Panteg's blistering early season form faltered on Saturday as their three game winning streak was ended by Sudbrook.

The Pontypool side batted first but could only Muster 247-7 from their fifty overs, a score that was bettered by Sudbrook with one wicket to spare.

The result gave the Chepstow side their third straight victory since the season began, inflicting Panteg with a first reverse of the campaign.

Panteg started shakily and were 70-3 before Micky Martin (80), Captain Ian Bird and Jonathan Glover (33 not out) steadied the ship.

"Our batsmen played some bad shots to get dismissed which cost us in the end," said Bird.

"We were looking to get 270 or 275 from our innings but only got 247 which I still thought was acceptable, but in the end wasn't quite enough.

"It was disappointing to lose the game especially as we dropped an important catch at mid-off

"If we'd managed to hold that catch I'm sure we'd have gone on to win. But then people don't drop catches on purpose and the lad was distraught afterwards.

"But we battled right to the end and that's a testament to how far we've come since last year.

"It's not all doom and gloom.

"We didn't win a close game but it's not the end of the world. We'll learn from our mistakes."

Panteg face another tough trip next week when the travel to high-flying St Fagons.

"They're a pretty strong side. Along with Cardiff, Sully and Sudbrook they're probably the strongest in the division but we'll be at full strength with Luke Sellers back in the side and give it our best shot," added Bird.