THE first two weeks of the new season saw Goodrich 2nd XI start confidently with a comfortable win away at Bosbury, but then follow up with a defeat in a hard fought close game against local rivals Strollers.

Having been put into bat against Bosbury, Goodrich started well only to crash to 34–3 following a couple of controversial LBW decisions.

Seasoned debutant Stuart Morgan (25) and veteran Phil Ward (22) then built a good partnership, until both departed in quick succession.

The latter fell to Alan Lancett who was to prove to be Bosbury's most successful bowler, his looping spin claiming 5-38.

Goodrich's final total of 160 all out, was largely due to a late partnership between Jake Wiseman (20) and the club chairman Richard Hope.

Hope finished on 36 with a number of elegant shots.

The home side started confidently in their run chase until Hope made the vital break through.

Despite some good batting from the Bosbury top four led by George Abbey (26), the batsmen became mesmerised by the wiles of Neil Price, well supported by youngster Ralph Heaven Richards (1-20).

With the ball darting and swinging around, Price proved irresistible and finished with match winning figures of 6-23 and a well warranted man of the match award.

Goodrich were well deserving of the 38 run victory.

The first home match of the season against Strollers, followed a similar pattern to the previous game.

Put into bat against the visitors, Goodrich lost early wickets which left the innings floundering. Phil Ward (32 not out), playing in a manner suggesting he will be contending for the end of year batting trophy, led a recovery ably supported by Pat Milinczuk (29).

The final total of 147-4 was boosted by some powerful strokes from Jake Wiseman (28 not out).

However Goodrich were never able to get on top of the Strollers bowling, well led by Simon Albright (2-32) and Jonny Powell (1-22).

Goodrich's total always seemed inadequate, however the bowlers had other ideas as initially Jake Wiseman (2-41) made early inroads into the Strollers batting.

The visitors' innings was built around an excellent 82 not out by Mark Powell which was to prove a match winning performance.

Despite a steady fall of wickets, the Goodrich bowling led by Richard Hope (3-25) refused to concede the match.

Strollers finally achieved a three wicket victory with a mere two overs remaining, however Goodrich can take a good deal of confidence in a fighting performance.