News Articles back to news

No harm done for Downham

Matches played on 29 May 2010: round-up by special correspondent Philip Banyard of the Eastern Daily Press.

Downham's perfect start to the season was unravelled by Norwich & Coltishall Wanderers, but as rain wiped out all the other Frankly Digital Norfolk Alliance Premier Division fixtures, the result actually benefited the reigning champions.

The west Norfolk side are unbeaten in the league since August 2008, but they came close to surrendering that record at Barton Turf as they had to settle for a 90pc losing draw.

Wanderers made 175 for six and Downham skipper Duncan Lanchester was left to guide his side to 90pc of that target - and a greater share of the points - with the leaders finishing on 158 for nine.

With their closest rivals picking up five points for an abandoned game, Downham's haul of 12 points will be viewed with some satisfaction by Lanchester.

Hales briefly christened their new ground against Sprowston in Division One. Leaders Sprowston managed to pick up an extra bonus point for taking two wickets before the rain intervened.

All other Alliance matches were abandoned.