Unfortunately Braidwood could only muster up 10 players, so were again at a major disadvantage. Captain James South won the toss and decided to bat. Corey Pont and Rion McClure got the side off to a steady start until Pont was bowled for 6. McClure followed shortly after for 6 and Braidwood were 2 for 25.This bought together South and Dave Dexter who formed a partnership that had carried the score to 140 at drinks and set the scene for a sizeable total. The partnership was finally broken, when on the devils number, 87, South was caught in the deep.

This was a great innings of batsmanship with shots all round the ground highlighted by some delightful cover drives. Dexter followed shortly after for another top innings of 53. In this innings Dave controlled his natural instincts to smash the ball in favour of stroke play and controlled aggression. With century maker from last match Peter Hazel at the crease and the score on 189 things looked good but a major collapse saw Rob Martin, Troy Harrison and Pat Martin all return to the pavilion without troubling the scorer. However super veteran Bob South played a great supporting role as Hazel smashed the bowling to all parts of the ground in amassing 49 not out and a the total to 241 before South was dismissed.

Hazel struck early with the ball to have Broulee 1 for 26 but some lusty hitting and half chances being missed began to swing the game Broulee's way. Rion McClure was introduced to the attack with immediate effect when young Pat Martin took a superb outfield catch off his first ball to dismiss the big hitting opener. With Luke Staunton bowling an immaculate line and length at the other end Broulee were having difficulties scoring and McClure and Staunton were both rewarded with wickets for their tight bowling.

At drinks Broulee 4 for 130 and the match evenly poised. After drinks Braidwood struggled for the breakthrough but the ball kept falling in the vacant spaces and it took Troy Harrison to knock over the stumps to give Braidwood a glimmer of hope. Unfortunately only having 10 fieldsmen proved the difference as Broulee scored the required runs with 3 overs to spare.

Despite the loss, Braidwood can be well pleased with their effort and if we can get a full young side on the paddock will be a major force in the competition. So if you are interested in a game of cricket or know somebody who is please contact James South on 48428025 or Rob Martin on 48422157.

Cricket resumes on 6th January. Contributed by Rob Martin