AN incredible performance by Paul Gelder sealed a must-win game for the 2nd XI at Blackshots.
Defending only 138, the experienced campaigner took an incredible 7-12, including a hat-trick in his seventh over, to get Thurrock over the line, where earlier in the day a defeat looked highly likely.
Batting first, despite being 39-0 and 79-3, the team collapsed to finish with just 138 on the board. Shameer Qureshi top scored with 27 while Arthur Austin excelled for the visitors with 5-41.
The hosts needed an amazing bowling performance to defend such a small total. Up stepped Gelder, as the Yorkshireman ripped through the Willow Herbs batting line-up with his unerring accuracy and skill. Dave Tester also did well, taking 2-10 from seven overs as the away side were bowled out for just 26.
