Australian Andy McGuire produced a stunning all round display as Monmouth 1st XI clinched a tight encounter by two wickets against Avoncroft writes Daniel Risk.
Monmouth won the toss and chose to field, with the decision appearing to pay dividends as Avoncroft crumbled to 25-5 with new ball pair Jonathan Roberts (2-25) and McGuire (4-35) causing serious damage.
The ship was steadied by middle order trio Michael Whitehead (49), Paul Athey and Adam Rodway (both 27) who propelled Avoncroft to 156 all out in 48.2 overs.
Spinner Aled Jones (2-11) and the returning Ian MacKinley (1-45) were also amongst the wickets in a confident fielding display.
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In reply, Monmouth's batsman struggled to turn good starts in big scores, with six of the top seven failing to go past 16 runs. In the end, it was left for McGuire (37 not out) and Roberts (12 not out) to see the side home with ten balls left. Jon Bird (3-29) and Athey (2-39) excelled with the ball in this tight, low scoring encounter.
Monmouth 1st XI know they must improve their batting, with strong side Romsley & Hunnington next to visit the Sports Ground.
Meanwhile, Monmouth 2nd XI gained another confident win as their excellent start to the season continued with a 3 wicket win at Chaddesley Corbett. Despite starting the game with only seven outfielders, Monmouth were able to restrict Chaddesley to 79-3 from 20 overs with young seam attack Andy Thomas (4-31), Dan Risk (1-27) and Jordan Charles (1-8) causing damage.
Experienced Gordon Grey also bagged four wickets in an exceptional spell. Nigel Middleton (43) was the only batsman to perform on a slow early season wicket.
In response, Monmouth made a steady start, aiding by 34 wides from Chaddesley bowlers. However, Hember (4-34) and left arm spinner Tom Mole snr (1-25) turned the screw, reducing Monmouth to 75-6. Captain Martin Newell (36) and Jon Despontin (11 not out) produced a 58 run partnership to see Monmouth home.
Monmouth 2nd XI faces a tricky away tie to Old Swinford next week and will hope to continue a bright start to the beginning of the season.
Monmouth Cricket Club would also like to extend their gratitude to new club sponsor J.D Weatherspoons and to local supermarket Waitrose Monmouth for a generous financial donation.