Harlow hit form as promotion race heats up

6:23pm Tuesday 28th August 2001

Southend243-6 dec

Harlow247-3

(Essex League Division Two)

HARLOW regained their position at the top of their division after a thrilling win at Southend on Saturday.

After losing the toss the home side were asked to make first use of a good batting wicket but were soon in trouble. The fiery pace of Mark Green (1-20) struck an early blow when he had Steve Wathen caught at the wicket for a single.

Runs were difficult to come by as Simon Baulcomb (2-26) and Paul Lenihan (1-24) made life difficult for the batting side to get settled in.

At 59-4 Harlow appeared in control but the introduction of the normally dependable spin of Niraj Odedra and Ian Hill eased the pressure on the batting side.

Michael Clark (65) and Niery Khan (96) plundered a wilting Harlow attack with a partnership of 111. Odedra (2-71) eventually claimed both batsmen but some lusty blows from Ben Wathen (24n/o) ensured the home side eventually reached a daunting 243-6 dec.

In reply, Harlow were given a 55 run start as Terry Rist (34) ensured the runs came quickly as his opening partner Nilesh Odedra (89n/o) dropped anchor.

A rapid 53 from Duncan Mackenzie maintained the required run rate. Mark Green was dismissed for 12 attempting an expansive drive which brought Niraj Odedra (46n.o.) to the wicket with the score on 187-3.

The two brothers continued to bat positively to ensure victory for Harlow with two overs to spare.

For Southend, spinner Mark Gridley bowled unchanged for 19.5 overs claiming 1-138. Jeremy Lawford (2-84) was the other wicket taker.

After the game, Harlow spokesman Terry Rist said: "With just two games to go and only a few points separating the top four clubs it's all very tight. However, if we maintain our form, particularly in the batting department, we should go very close."

Harlow are at home to fifth place Upminster on Saturday and play fellow title-challengers Hutton in the final game of the season.