Cricket: Watsonians left in the Myre after slip-up in Aberdeen

Published on Saturday 7 August 2010 10:01

Watsonians made the long journey south from Aberdeenshire angry with themselves that they had not capitalised on Grange's loss to Clydesdale as the SNCL Premier Division title race threw up more excitement.

The Myreside men had been dealt a blow late on Friday night when young batsman Ewan Chalmers was called up to the Scotland squad. It meant Andy Learmonth was drafted into the starting XI.

The hosts batted first at Mannofield and posted a useful 262-6. Pro Michael Parlane, one of the best batsmen in the division, scored 62 and Kenny Reid made 56 not out. In reply 'Sonians were going well after the early loss of Ryan Flannigan, James Easton and Tim Weston batting nicely. However, Easton was run out and, although Kiwi Weston went on to make 101, he was not given enough support and 'Sonians were all out for 229.

Carlton's batting capitulated for the second week in a row in the home loss to Forfarshire.

The visitors to Grange Loan made 221 batting first, Mohammed Habib taking three wickets and Ally Evans and Cedric English both chipping in with a couple, although 45 extras were conceded. In reply Carlton, without Fraser Watts and Preston Mommsen giving them a flying start, struggled as they had done against Dunfermline Knights seven days before. Cedric English top scored with 62 in their 139 all out.

Heriot's easily defeated Drumpellier in the First Division to regain top spot. The hosts crawled to 116-8 from their 50 overs and Sean Weeraratna, Anthony Edington, Qasim Ashraf and Paul McCraw were in the wickets for the Goldenacre men. Steve Knox led the way with a composed 62 not out as Heriot's won by eight wickets.

In the same division skipper Keith Morton was the hero with 55 as Penicuik shocked Stirling County at Kirkhill by two wickets. The Midlothian men bowled the visitors out for 145, Greg Ruthven bowling a great spell to take 4-22.

Edinburgh are off the bottom of the Second Division after a win over Ferguslie. Arslan Mir smashed 103 in the 28-run victory. SMRH's great form went on with Will Jackson taking four wickets in a win over Renfrew, but RH Corstorphine lost at leaders Dumfries.