A SEASON of two contrasting halves would be a fair way to describe Barnt Green Cricket Club's 2001 Birmingham Premier League First XI campaign.

After failing to win a game in the first half of the season, Green hit form at the right time to climb above Aston Unity and last season's champions Cannock to ensure mid-table security.

Saturday's exciting win at home to new champions Stratford emphasised the potential that exists at the Cherry Hill Road club.

Stratford were sent into bat and looked in the kind of form that won them the title with Humphrey (40) and young Mitchell (74) starting well.

The teasing off-spin of captain Lyndon Jones made an early appearance and he came up with a solid spell to peg back the visiting strokemakers. He collected figures of 4-52 off 18 overs and was well supported by Gavin Haynes' 1-24 off ten overs.

The highlight for Barnt Green was Kris Howes grabbing his 50th league wicket of the season. Stratford finished on 215-8 off 55 overs.

In reply, Hall (30) and Dallaway (42) started well and the scoreboard was ticking over nicely when Froggatt (35) came in. However, it was left to Haynes (59 not out) and Adam Smith to finish the job and give the home support some end of season cheer.

Captain Jones was left to reflect on a season that puzzled many at the club. He said: "We've played some fantastic cricket since early July, it's just a pity it took half a season for us to wake up. It shows how confidence can affect players -- we couldn't even scratch a result in the first half of the season, but other clubs were actually scared of us by the end."

Green are already planning for next year by sorting out pre-season training and talking to potential players, including a couple of seam bowlers.

Jones said: "Our you-ng New Zealander Kris Howes did a fantastic job for us and grabbed 50 league wickets. Young Jon Haden and Mike Hind showed great character all season and it was great to have Gavin Haynes fit to bowl during the second half."

Jones pointed to confidence among the batters which was sky-high towards the end of the season.

"Matt Dallaway was unlucky not to get more runs than he did, but all credit to him, Gav Haynes, Richard Hall and Simon Froggatt on the way they turned things around in the second half," said Jones.

"What's also been pleasing was the attitude shown by younger guys like Chris Bagley and Adam Smith.They will play a part for many years to come."