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Bailey's century is a derby delight

28/ 5/2008

THE local derby between Compstall and Romiley, which has evoked intense rivalry in the past, took place in the top flight for the first time in 36 years with Compstall as the hosts.

On winning the toss, Romiley skipper Eddie Nickson elected to bat, opening the innings with Danny Leach and Rick Holt against Compstall’s attack of Rick Shaw and Sam Markovic.

The innings started brightly until the introduction of Matt Shelton drew Holt into a false shot and the catch was gratefully taken by Shaw.

On an excellent batting track the Romiley batsmen took full advantage, but only Danny Leach (50) and Andy Todd (48) progressed and, at the end, Alex Barber with a few hearty swipes reached 38.

The innings closed on a very respectable 241-8.

David Bailey opened the innings with Stewart Jackson against the Romiley attack of Michael Flattley and Barber.

The Compstall response began well with the scoring rate around four an over until the 25th over when both batsmen put their foot on the accelerator and took the initiative away from Romiley.

Some very strange field placings assisted Compstall and they raced to 200 without loss before Jackson was bowled for an excellent 83.

With Compstall on 203-1, Paul Needham joined Bailey and soon got into his stride.

Bailey reached his ton with a four to mid-wicket and eventually finished on a magnificent 111 n.o. as Compstall, on 245-1, overhauled the Romiley total with two overs to spare, Needham closing on 23 not out.