PERSIMMON VILLAGE CUP National Round 5

Rowledge 210-8 (40 overs) Foxton 206 (40 overs)

Foxton went down by just four runs in a match that ran to the very last ball. The visitors from Surrey won the toss and elected to bat. Good contributions from Chris Yates Snr. (32) and skipper David Lloyd with 24 enabled them to reach 130-7 from 29 overs. The home side at this point inspired by a spectacular one handed diving catch at backward short leg by Mark Ferrari felt well in control of the game. Ricky Yates batting at seven had other ideas and he helped himself to a well played 78 and together with Tim Wheatley (23 not out) they notched an 80 stand to gain momentum and post 210-8 from their 40 overs. Ferrari and Nick McLellan were Foxton's best bowlers with two wickets each.

The home sides openers Antonnel Atwell (39) and Gareth Roots (34) provided a solid 66 foundation, but by the time home skipper Lawrence Farnum (27) departed the rate had risen to 8.5 an over from the last 11. Cei Sanderson (34) and Patrick Joseph effected an acceleration and when Joseph was dismissed for 35 Foxton required 12 from the last over. The tail enders could not find the vital boundary and they finally were all out just five short from the last ball. Visiting skipper Lloyd was the top wicket taker with 4-59 in a most entertaining game played in an excellent spirit. The difference between the two sides appeared to be slightly more economical bowling by Rowledge and sharper fielding. Foxton have thoroughly enjoyed their run in this trophy and next season hope to make it closer to the Lord's final.