2nd XI Maintain Winning Streak

Winning breeds confidence, and this has been demonstrated by Syston’s 2nd XI who won their third match on the trot. However it goes from bad to worse for the 1st XI as their slumped to their third defeat in a row – relegation threatened Ashby Hastings were the victors this time.

1st XI – It seems that when the 2 nd team win the 1 st XI struggle and this was no different on Saturday when Syston lost at home to Ashby Hastings. Another poor show with the bat coupled with some rapid bowling from Ashby’s overseas Matthew Ryan meant Syston’s backs were against the wall before the tea break! With Raja Hayat missing the already shaky opening pair struggled again as Syston found themselves 3 for 1 and 20 for 2. Mike Peacock (26) and Aleem Mahmood (48) steadied the ship but an innings which included 5 ducks speaks volumes. Saqlain Mushtaq (45*) took Syston past the 150 mark but it was never going to be enough as the 1st XI were bowled out with over 13 overs remaining!

Chasing 169 for victory Ashby cruised to victory despite a mini wobble as Umar Razzaq picked up the wickets of both openers. But Steve Colley (47*), Ollie Hunt (39) and George Carline (32) ensure the visitors passed the target in comfort leaving Syston 49 points from the top and the title hopes in tatters. To make matters worse the team must now dust themselves off in time for their trip to Kibworth next Saturday

2nd XI – Andy Corbett must be delighted with the recent turn around in form as Syston’s 2nd XI thrashed Ratby Town.

Batting first the home side will have been aware of Syston’s exploits away at Electricity Sports the week before. And before long Ratby were struggling against a rejuvenated 2nd XI. Within 6 overs the homeside were reduced to 7 for 6 as Duncan Selms picked 5 wickets. A rain delay didn't help Ratby as it was much the same after the restart. E. Lee stood firm scoring 24 - without his knock Ratby could have been skittled for under 40! Charlie Taylor picked up 3 and Pete Howard cleared up the tail taking the final 2 wickets as Ratby were bowled out for just 58.

Kahil Mann-Kler (21) and Nikesh Savjani (24*) helped to see the visitors home with ease as Syston won by 8 wickets and putting them firmly in mid table. Syston will try and make it four from four next week as Ibstock Town (who themselves have a relegation battle on their hands) are the visitors.