A FINE all-round performance from David Soothill helped Martley to a thrilling one-wicket opening-day win against Halesowen Thirds in Worcestershire League Division Four.
Halesowen made steady progress against the opening attack of Dan Johnson and Pete Gardner.
But it was the change bowlers of Tom Vale (2-28), and Soothill (4-20) who came on to sweep through the middle order.
Johnson came back to nip out the lower order, taking 3-21 as Halesowen were all out for 137.
Martley made a poor start in reply, and it was Vale and Soothill who again came to the rescue as Martley slumped to 86-6.
Vale made 29, and Soothill was 54 not out, as Martley edged home.
John McGahan’s hundred dominated Martley seconds innings at Halesowen fourths in 2nd XI Division Four, but they lost by seven wickets.
McGahan hit 102 in Martley’s 141 all out. Ben Court (2-20) gave Martley some hope but a fine innings of 84 from opener Ben Dunn saw Halesowen home with some comfort.
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