English boosts Ferguslie

FERGUSLIE captain Stuart Kennedy has sought to play down the loss of talented young batsman Gregor Preston-Jones for the remainder of the season – and said that the impact had been softened by the emergence of another highly promising rookie, Michael English.

English, still just 15, made his debut against West Lothian last month, but was unable to make an impression during the heavy defeat.

Kennedy kept faith with him, however, and was rewarded by watching English strike an accomplished 40 in the home-turf success against Imans Edinburgh.

Now Kennedy has challenged English to produce more of the same when Ferguslie make the tricky trip to face Freuchie.

Former Scotland all-rounder Kennedy said: "Obviously losing Gregor to a serious injury was a setback for him and the squad, but we were heartened by Michael's performance.

"He picked a great day to display his capabilities because it was our sponsors' lunch and we had a big crowd, who appreciated his contribution."

Ferguslie youth team chief Sam Scott said: "It is a real shame for Gregor because he had just made the big step up to senior cricket.

"He was turning to go for a second run when he lost his footing – and the damage was done, a double ankle fracture. But he is a resilient character who has come up through the ranks here and I am confident he will bounce back next year."

Leaders Dumfries look likely to keep up the momentum by beating SMRH in Edinburgh, while West Lothian are at home to a Corstorphine side desperate to shake off their wretched run of form.

Renfrew will start as favourites in the local derby with Kelburne at King George V Park, while Weirs should also make home advantage count against Edinburgh.