GRADES SATURDAY/SUNDAY 28th/29th JUNE 2008
A dramatic game at Kintore, where eighteen wickets fell for less than 90 runs, was the main feature of a generally low-scoring day in the Thistle Sports Grades on Saturday.
Having dismissed Stonehaven, leaders of the table for the first six weeks of the season for just 43, Kintore must have felt that victory – and consolidation of second place in Grade 1 – would be just a formality. However, in a game where the bowlers were on top throughout on a damp pitch, Kintore equally struggled themselves, only Dave Grayson and Russell Balsillie getting into double figures, as the home side squeezed home by just two wickets.
Elsewhere Caledonian were unable to repeat their opening day victory over Ellon, while Banchory beat Inverurie to put additional pressure on the Kellands Park side in the race to avoid relegation. Bon Accord predictably completed the double over 2nd Cults at the Alan Park, with a match-winning all-round performance from Grades skipper T Malik.
In Grade 2, all three of the top of the table teams failed to win, St Ronald losing their previously unblemished record to Queens Cross; while Gordonians lost to Methlick and Grammar FPs were frustrated by Crathie. At the foot Kemnay again lost; but there was another victory for Artisans to give them renewed hope of avoiding the drop at the expense of opponents Academy.
In Grade 3 2nd Banchory enhanced their grip on top spot with victory over Dunecht, while a walkover for Anchorians and wins for Crescent and 2nd Ellon opens up the race to avoid ninth spot in the table. 2nd Stonehaven beat 2nd Dunecht to remain top of Grade 4, while their was a maiden home victory for Huntly Highlanders at the expense of fellow Grade 4 newcomers 2nd Gordonians.
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