Lightcliffe won the toss and chose to bat first on a bright, sunny evening at Till Carr Lane. With the long journey to and from North Yorkshire, both sides agreed to play 18 overs a side to ensure a result and the young Villagers set about the task powerfully, quickly and assuredly.

Jacob and Lucas gave Lightcliffe a positive start, with Lucas striking 25 from just 16 balls, including five boundaries, before falling with the score on 39. Jacob continued to anchor the innings, making a composed 35 from 35 balls.

The standout batting display came from Will Sweeten, who retired not out on 50 from 33 deliveries, hitting ten fours in a superbly paced innings. Alex then added late acceleration with a rapid 25 from only 10 balls, including four fours and a six, helping Lightcliffe reach an imposing 150 for 3.

After a short break to allow the players – and their watching on families and friends – to top up their refreshment levels, Settle took to the crease and the reply was immediately put under pressure.

Harrison struck with the score still on 0, before Ted removed the second wicket to leave the visitors 1 for 2. Charlie then had the remaining opener caught by Alex, reducing Settle to 16 for 3 and putting Lightcliffe firmly in control.

There was then some resistance for the North Yorkshire youngsters with 15 scored from 41 balls, but Lightcliffe’s bowlers maintained tight control throughout. Lucas took a brilliant 2 for 0, including a maiden. Freddie was also especially economical, conceding just five runs from his three overs, while George struck in the last over to take the sixth Settle wicket.

It was a complete team performance from Lightcliffe: runs from the top order, sharp fielding contributions and disciplined bowling across the attack. Sweeten’s unbeaten half-century set the tone, while Arnot’s all-round display with 25 runs and 2 wickets capped an impressive 93-run victory.

Thanks to the coaching, umpiring, scoring & support team on the night for running the match and the club and, while tougher tests will be to come in the Cup, it was a match played in brilliant spirits with discussions already underway about a Villagers trip to the beautiful Yorkshire Dales in the summer to experience the Settle hospitality.

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