Battered, bruised, beaten.

A different match report tonight.

Cricket is a great game - that’s why we all do we what we do: play, parent, coach, manage, score or whatever - because we love the game.

But cricket is a dangerous partner. One minute all happiness and a tidy house, the next anger and clothes left lying around with the dishwasher not emptied. And you never know which partner will be around for your match.

The scorecard tells the story - sure, we were short of players for many reasons and it was going to be a challenge for the boys. We tried to dig deep but sometimes when you’re against the ropes it’s hard. Really hard. Especially when you’re 12, 11 or even 10 years old.

We knew Lindow would be a tough opponent . We knew they will win the League unbeaten. We know some of their players very well. But no one anticipated the game that unfolded tonight. They were superb in every department - batting, bowling, fielding but most of all respect and behaviour.

This isn’t about individuals but a couple of mentions. A very late call up for Alfie Turner. Well done mate, well done. George - good stuff.

We had a rough experience tonight but we need to move on. Cheadle & Brooklands wait for our last two games. We’re battered and bruised but let’s hope better for the experience.