Harry Mapplebeck returned to the fold
FPs batting stumbled and collapsed again as they could only muster 107 all out with no one making 20. FPs had brief hope as they struck twice early to reduce Mannofield to 7 for 2, but a good stand between John Dickinson (51) and Rutwik Hegde (28) of 77 helped Mannofield close out a comfortable win.
FPs were delighted to welcome Harry Mapplebeck back into the fold for the 1st time this season and lined up Keith, Nattrass, Penman, Swiergon, Mapplebeck, Morrison, Javaid, Sood, Prash, Knudson. FPs lost the toss but were happy to bat but were unable to break the shackles as some handy left arm spin from Cummings (2/20) stifled Keith into a false shot and he chipped to mid on for just 3. Penman followed LBW to Sharma for 3, and was one of 3 LBWs as FPs struggled. Nattrass made a determined 19 and Sood 19 not out, but only they plus Morrison given caught at the wicket to his astonishment for 14 offered much resistance.
With the ball FPs started strongly and Morrison took a good tumbling catch to send Saraswat on his way for just 4, the umpire raising the finger. Mapplebeck then dispatched Hashmi for 2, Swiergon taking a brilliant diving catch at 3rd slip. Shortly after Morrison cleverly stumped Hegde but the umpire was somewhat distracted so turned down the appeal. Hegde and Dickinson then settled into a fine stand, scoring all round the wicket with some excellent shots. It was only Dickinson trying to accelerate that brought his downfall, the returning Mapplebeck having him well caught by Sood for 51. Hegde followed soon after Haider having him caught by Penman at square leg. Phil Wood ought to have gone next ball, Swiergon making the ground and then dropping the catch at deep mid wicket. Wood then opened up and finished the game in quick time.
It was another tough outing for FPs and they will hope for an improved showing against Inverurie. Grade 2 beckons but FPs will still be giving their all for the remainder of the season.
Man of the Match
Tough to pick anyone, Sood made 19 not out and took a catch.
Champagne Moment
Rob Swiergon’s excellent catch
