Warwickshire League
1st XI
Premier Division
Aston Manor CC: 196 all out
Hampton & Solihull CC: 113 all out
ASTON MANOR WON BY 83 RUNS

Aston Manors attempt to return to the Birmingham League at the first time of asking got of to a promising start with an ultimately comfortable victory away to Hampton & Solihull.

The prospect of victory however looked anything but comfortable when a combination of some dreadful running between the wicket and irresponsible stroke play saw the visitors reduced to 54-5. Manors new professional, Recordo Gordon, decided that the best form of recovery was to attack, and that he did with great effect. The ex-Warwickshire man smashed the ball to all parts of the ground with a belligerent and exciting innings of 109 from only 84 balls. Aaron Toora (25) offered him solid support as Manor were finally dismissed for a competitive total of 196 coming from only 35 overs.

Gordon is of course predominantly known as a bowler and a superb quick and aggressive opening spell of 3-19 left the hosts reply in tatters. Chris Hughes (70) was the mainstay of Hampton & Solihulls innings but further wickets for Shaun Findlay (3-13), Russell Guy (2-11), Craig Reynolds (1-5) and Imran Khan (1-16) meant that a second spell was not required from Manors talisman as they cruised to a convincing victory.

Overall an encouraging start, but more discipline will definitely be required in the batting department if a genuine promotion push is to become a reality.