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2009 BGCC Season Roundup

The season started ominously enough when both teams were docked 10 points each for failing to attend meetings that they didn't know were going on! Had the dirty tricks to rob the boys of a third successive title started early?

The Brockham 1^st XI battled valiantly to defend their record breaking two seasons in a row League Champions title, but alas it was not to be and that honour went to Westcott instead.

It could be said that the team, ably lead yet again by the indomitable Mike Tapper, is under going a little personnel restructuring. Some players have moved on to pastures new but have been replaced by no means any lesser quality players. Indeed the 1^st XI is still a very much feared team to go up against. Especially with a formidable batting line up of Gerard Weide (143), Jonathan Ellis (100), Dan Jordon (97), Mike Tapper (88), Paul Tipping (64) and Richard Brown (58). Not to mention an equally formidable bowling line up including Billy Scott-Malden, Chris and Martin Weill, Mark Haines (5-31), Gerard (5-35) and Richard (4-20).

It could also be said that the other teams were 'out for blood'; and had Brockham targeted firmly in their sights as THE team not to lose against.

In truth, the line was only breached 3 times in the entire season (a very impressive record second only to Westcott). This alone speaks volumes for the team's determination to hold onto the league title.

In reality, however, it was just the number of unconverted draws (the ones that got away) that held the team back this year. Nevertheless, an excellent performance and an excellent attempted defence of the title by all concerned & definitely the force to be reckoned with again next season.

Won 6, Drawn 7, Lost 3

But perhaps some of this year's accolades should also go to the Herculean effort performed by the 2^nd XI, who managed to create an almost mystical and feared reputation amongst the other division teams when playing at home (or 'Fortress Brockham' as it has become to be known). The team won a club record breaking and thoroughly impressive 6 games at the 'Fortress' including taking all the big scalps (Salfords - eventual division champions - Netherne & South Nuffield).

Won 7 (equals 2007 & 2008 seasons combined);

Drawn 4 (more than 2006, 2007 & 2008 seasons combined)

Lost 5 (20 less than 2006, 2007 & 2008 seasons combined)

Finished a dizzy 6^th in the Division just 1 point behind the 5^th place team.

This impressive result is largely down to the patient workings (over the last 3 years) of the knowledgeable and impassive captain Chris Pitchford whose attitude, dedication, leadership and encouragement of the team, especially the youngsters joining in for the first time, has been second to none. Ably assisted and to no less a degree of dedication and encouragement has been the vice captain Phil Brown. Because of these two the team has never before had such a 'buzz' and belief about itself than it does now. The 1^st team will be eagerly awaiting the new polished recruits as they feed up the line leaving Chris & Phil to do it all again! Can I keep my position as wicket keeper next year after all that lads?!

2^nd XI Bat & Field mentions

No less than 8 members of the team scored over 50 runs (another club record).

Andrew Ellis - 88 not out (464 for the season), Mike Ives - 82 (209 for the season; 10 catches (9 -2nds & 1 -1sts)), Bob Middlemiss - 73 not out, Jeff Kirkland - 67, Darryn Howland - 59 not out (365 for the season; 10 catches), Chris Pitchford - 57 (239 for the season) & Kevin Perrin 54.

2^nd XI Bowling mentions

Phil Brown - 34 wickets (best 4-21), Chris Pitchford - 31 wickets (best 4-40), Andrew Ellis - 22 wickets (best 4-14), Darryn Howland - 18 wickets (best 4-24) & Mikey Ellis - 9 wickets (4-5).

Some excellent debutant young players to this years squad include: Dan Chips, Ryan Flynn, Jonathan Kyle-Simpson, James Walker, Jason Wolsey, James Armstrong & Zac Smith.

Possibly another reason why both teams' spirits have never been so high in the introduction of the now infamous after match all out BBQ. You just gotta be there to appreciate it!

On a much more serious note:

The BGCC desperately needs to update their facilities to ensure the continuation of this proud 134 year old club and your help is hugely appreciated.

Our astro strip that we use for nets practice is in a very bad state and needs urgent repairs. However, what the club ideally needs is a more permanent solution in the form of a net area to be built in the far corner of the club ground. For that we need to raise a meagre £15,000. We are doing our level best trying to raise these funds ourselves. However any donations or any business sponsorship deals (company billboards at matches etc) would be most welcomed. Please contact Mike Ives (Fund Raising Secretary - 01737 843348, m.ives@btconnect.com) or Mark Haines (Club Secretary - 01403 249575, markhainesifa@hotmail.com).

Thank you in advance and remember this isn't just for the present but for the future generations of young Brockhamite cricketers to come; a tradition that this village can truly be proud of.

'The Hat'

BGCC is an open and friendly club and we are always looking for new players to join. If you fancy a go simply pop along to nets during the week, details on the website http://brockhamgreencc.hitscricket.com or call Mark Haines on 01403 249575.