South East Wales Cricket League

Division Five

UNDY & Magor CC survived two early blows to maintain their promotion push at Caldicot Leisure Centre against a Ton Pentre team that had only eight players, writes Bob Cypher.

Despite the loss of the two openers with only 10 runs on the board, the home side recovered through Richard Hudson (40) and Josh James (43) to steady the attack and Ryan Hudson’s 79 proved a vital contribution as they posted 232-8 from their 40 overs.

In reply, the under-strength visitors battled hard but were bowled out for 170 to give Undy & Magor a 62-run victory.

The home team’s main wicket-taker was Richard Hudson who finished with fine figures of 5-22.

Later, U&M skipper Josh James admitted the victory was important as it gave his second-placed team some breathing space as they bid for back-to-back promotions.

“After losing the toss yet again, we were reduced to 10-2 and it was a great fightback to post 232,” he said.

“It was an important win against a team who are just behind us so it’s given us a bit of a cushion,”

A superb 79 by Ryan Hudson – supported by Richard Hudson and his captain – was the mainstay of Undy & Magor’s innings.

“Despite only having eight players, Ton Pentre did give us a bit of a scare flying out the blocks in their reply and were aided by some interesting umpiring decisions.

“However, the boys kept their discipline and a superb spell from Richard Hudson saw us to victory.”