Bessie, Ted, Oliver and George didn’t look at all phased as Thornton won the toss and elected to bowl first.

Jack, Luke, George and Hugo each hit a boundary in an innings that was characterised by the determination of every player and support from the boundary edge. No wickets were taken in the 16 overs, an impressive achievement against a bowling attack that included some strong players.

With 70 extras, the home side’s innings closed on 101 without loss - a net score of 301.

It was always going to be a challenge for Thornton with such a strong score, but they began well. It was finely balanced until the 7th over when the first of four wickets fell.

A clean bowl from Jack was the first and then Joey backed that up in his first over with two consecutive caught and bowled (we won’t mention the one just before that was dropped…). Luke completed the wicket takers with the last ball of his second spell.

There were flashes of excellence from Thornton - Abigail and Clara deserve mentions for their shot making, but the visitors ended on 74/4 - a net score of 254.

A great team performance from Lightcliffe who won by 47 runs with everyone contributing and supporting each other on a night that was a real demonstration of the spirit and enjoyment of junior cricket from both sides.

Match Report by Stephen Naylor