On a blustery and cloudy Friday afternoon, the opening cricket fixture of Roses 2019 got underway with York electing to bat first.
York opener Goodwin top scored with an attractive 73 for the home side as they amassed a very competitive 243 in their 40 overs. Wicketkeeper Udy added a very handy 45 not out amidst the showers that threatened to force the players from the pitch. Yet, despite the cold and wind, the players continued on without interruption.
Off spinner, Paolo Hossain was the pick of the Lancaster bowlers taking three wickets including the main man Goodwin. Left-arm seamer Henry Marsden chipped in with a couple of his own on his Roses debut.
Lancaster’s chase never really looked like threatening the York total. The visitors lost wickets at key stages and were unable to construct a match-winning partnership to overhaul the 244-run target. Danny Theed (35) and Omar Aziz (34) provided some entertainment for the fans who braved the elements, with both batsmen displaying some impressive ball-striking.
Their control throughout the match was duly rewarded and York claimed an impressive and thoroughly well-deserved victory, winning by 102 runs.
Greg Newark
