Saturday saw the start of the second half of the season with all the games reaching a natural conclusion…except for the game at Ellon that Jack Nixon went to watch! With the old changing room facility out of bounds, a heavy burst of rain sent players scuttling to their cars and hopefully Jack’s walking stick had a James Bond style inbuilt umbrella function. The Rain Calculator ruled against the home side.
Over to Jack –
An air of nostalgia hung over the Gordon Park in Ellon on Saturday when totally by accident I bumped into a long time supporter of the local cricket team, ending in us reflecting on the sombre fact of knowing we would not see Ellon Gordon celebrate their 200th anniversary in 2062, or indeed the 100th one of derby rivals Methlick who were the visitors.
Less depressingly, we reasoned some of the young talent out there would still be around for the aforementioned celebrations of both clubs. Indeed, given the average ages of Grades sides in the region, some of Saturday’s protagonists at Gordon Park might still be playing.
It can only be hoped that in 37 years time, the two sides will still have administrators of the quality of Ean Mackie for Ellon and Jay Allan for the ”mighty men” of Methlick.
It’s also hard to believe that stalwarts Jonny Barrett and Scott Middleton will not be out there in 2062. Perhaps the two will by then be relegated to a park bench, viewing the new talent of the day, or even players they inspired.
Should veteran Mark Woodhouse put aside his committee responsibilities and get back to the crease at Lairds my cup would be full and running over. (UNBEKNOWNST TO JACK, MARK WAS TAKING 4 FOR 19 FOR METHLICK 2NDS. WHO EVEN KNEW HE COULD BOWL!)
As for the game, we both agreed it was a quality contest with MCC holding sway, mainly due to a quite superb knock of 64 from Adam Veersema, taking them to the respectable total of 182 for eight from their allocation of 40 overs.
Despite losing two early wickets, Ellon Gordon’s innings was steadied by who else but Barrett who stroked his way to another half century but some way short of the Methlick total.
All in all, a good day out, enjoyed by two old men who hope to see more games before time is called on their innings.
My friend was sufficiently moved to make his annual donation to the club, while I shall do my best to keep these two clubs in the public eye with the odd scribble.