First Team
2007 REVIEW
South North 1st XI embarked on the 2007 season with the aim of emulating the feats of the previous season.
The season began well – an opening day victory against Gateshead Fell was followed by a comprehensive 7 wicket win at Norton. Solid contributions with the bat and ball were, however, overshadowed by an unfortunate injury to the experienced Adam Heather. He would miss half of the season.
Two high scoring draws followed. Against
Defeat was tasted for the first time at home to
The response to this setback was excellent in the following two games. Set an imposing 250 to win in only 55 overs at Durham, the visitors romped to a 5 wicket win, thanks to an explosive 82 form Hewison, well supported by John Graham and Adam Cragg. Local rivals Benwell Hill were then swept aside as Stephen ‘Horse’ Humble, with good support from Brendan Ford, galloped through the Hill’s top order and a solid reply produced victory at a canter.
Three out of the next four games were either completely washed out or badly hit by the inclement British summer time. In the one unaffected game, a fine century from the returning Adam Heather, assisted by a run-a-ball 73 form James Miller ( who was enjoying an outstanding season), helped set up an exciting high scoring win against Norton. The chase for the title continued to be a two horse race with South North and
An impressive victory at
Crozier’s haul marked the beginning of an upsurge in his form which was to prove ultimately decisive. He followed up with six wickets in the next game against
The next two games, both in the same weekend, were frustrating draws with Sunderland and
The next two games followed similar patterns and both resulted in comfortable wins for South North batting second. At Benwell Hill, the spin twins of Brook and Crozier combined to restrict the home side to just under 200. Graham, Ford and Hewison ensured no mistakes were made in reply. Against
South North now enjoyed a slender lead at the top, however this became a slight deficit after a frustrating draw at
The last day of the season dawned with a simple scenario.
In cup cricket, South North made up for the disappointment of an early Cockspur cup exit by winning the Banks Salver League Cup for the third time.
So 2007 proved to be another memorable one for the 1st XI. Five consecutive Premier league titles is a notable and unprecedented achievement. As with the previous four, it was very much a team effort. It wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and support of numerous people behind the scenes. They know who they are; the players are most grateful for their support.
John Graham


