U13 unbeaten run ends with narrowest of defeats

The U13s went into this game confident on the back of an unbeaten record this season. However, even against modest opponents, a below par performance can end in defeat.
Fielding first the boys lacked their usual energy and enthusiasm in the field. Bowling far too many wides and no balls as well as conceding byes gifted the visitors a total at least 30 runs more than it should have been. Added to this a couple of straight forward dropped catches left the boys down hearted at the break with NM&G on 120 for 8 and the Cubs chasing 121 for victory.
However, opening pair Ben Perkin and Rhys Nicholas made a really positive start to the innings with an opening partnership of 54 in only 6 overs. Ben scoring 29 off only 15 balls.
Roy came in and continued this positive approach seeing the boys progress to an impressive 77 at the half way stage of the innings, victory was in sight. The momentum was lost however once Rhys retired 33 no and Will was out for 13. The scoring rate slowed as wickets fell with regularity and the boys eventually finished their innings one run short on 119 for 7.
We move on however, hopefully having learnt that any side can lose when they put in a below par performance.