Easy win for Morecambe as Bailey's men subside
Morecambe completed an easy seven wicket victory at Carnforth in their first game of the T20 campaign on Friday evening.
Carnforth were dismissed for a paltry 78 with prolific batting professional Ryan Bailey bowled by Ryan Smith for just 14.
Bailey, Carnforth's stand-in captain in the absence of Adam Hornby, witnessed a dismal batting display by his under-strength side with only the fit-again Darren Moore (23) and Rob Parker (21) making much headway.
Canforth skipper Darren Moore is bowled by Graeme Cassidy |
From 49 for 3 at the halfway stage Carnforth subsided to their hugely disappointing total thanks largely to an inspired spell from medium pacer Graeme Cassidy, who captured four wickets for 16 runs.
Carnforth's Warren Quinn is bowled by Graeme Cassidy |
On a beautiful sunlit evening Morecambe raced to their target in under 12 overs, Phil Thornton leading the way with an unbeaten 36 that included four sixes. Thornton finished the match in grand style, hitting occasional bowler Tom Barnfield for successive sixes.
Phil Thornton steered Morecambe to victory |
Vishnal Goyal was brilliantly stumped by James Whincup in the first over off Parker but it was a rare highlight in an evening best forgotten from a Carnforth perspective.
Phil Dennison (14) and professional Bruce Martin, who hit two sixes in his 19, assisted Thornton in the victory chase.
Morecambe's Phil Dennison is bowled by Warren Quinn |
Morecambe host Carnforth in the return clash at Woodhill Lane next Tuesday (8 July).
Carnforth have lost all three of their T20 games and so the place on finals day will depend upon the two meetings between Morecambe and Lancaster.
Morecambe host Lancaster on Thursday 17 July before the return game at Lune Road on Friday 25 July.
