Lashings cricket stars out for revenge

Priory scrambled a bye off the final ball to notch an historic win to level the series at 1-1 12 months ago to set up the 'decider' on Thursday July 28.

Lashings chairman Dave Folb is promising to bring out the heavy artillery as they seek revenge on a side who inflicted their first defeat of 2004.

"This time," he said, "we're going down there to absolutely murder them! We're going down there for war!"

Former New Zealand all-rounder Chris Harris, who was "fired" according to Folb after leading Lashings in last year's defeat, added: "We've got a score to settle, but to be fair it was a pretty poor side we put out due to the chairman's selection!

"We always enjoy coming to Hastings, it's always a nice fixture. There's always plenty of enthusiasm there and the facilities are among the best we play on. It's a great wicket there and the teas are good as well!"

Priory captain Carl Read commented: "The Lashings game is an escape from the league stuff at the moment and has been a fantastic day in previous years. With our victory last year I am sure that they will come at us harder this year, which is a little worrying!

"Being realistic, we know that most of the spectators turn up hoping that we will get smashed all round the park and that Lashings will humiliate us, but we just have to try and raise our game and try to ensure that that does not happen. It is just an honour to play against the guys and they are games that all those who play in will never forget.

"The key to the day is the weather and if the sun shines then it is a great day for the players, club and Horntye Park."

Admission to the 40-overs-a-side game is 6 for adults and 4 for children/pensioners. Tickets will only be available on the day and gates open at 12noon for a 2pm start. There will be a licensed bar and catering.