MISSING skipper Lloyd Bruce and vital all-rounder Tom Edwards, it was not the best of times for the Sully Centurions Cricket Club 1st XI to face Miskin - probably the strongest side in the league.

Although things started brightly for Centurions when Adam Sylvester picked up a wicket in the first over, it was very much downhill from there on as the home side reached a massive 356 at the end of their 50 overs, with wide balls contributing 48 extra runs.

After such a long afternoon in the field, Centurions' reply was somewhat predictable as they toiled to100 all out and a 256-run defeat. Pavel top scored with a fine 32 before being run out.

FINE DISPLAY

With an understrength team, hosts Centurions' Seconds put in a fine performance against Croesyceiliog.

On a very slow wicket following the heavy midweek rain, and with a long outfield, Centurions were asked to bat and, with runs hard to come by, D Chalk (17) looked in good form before being adjudged lbw.

Mark Burnett, with a fine 22 not out, aided by a stubborn Emma Davies (9no), helped Centurions, considering the difficult conditions, to a useful 111 for nine after their 45 overs.

Despite Centurions bowling an excellent tight line, the visitors reached their target for the loss of three wickets, but still took 40 overs.

WEEKEND TEAMS

1st XI v Radyr (Saturday, Sully at 12 noon): L Bruce, T Edwards, B Jones, J Griffett, Pavel, A Sylvester, Harris, B Spear, O'Sullivan, T Davies and N Cuddihy.

2nd XI v Blackwood (Saturday, away, leave Sully Inn at 11.45am): From D W Sylvester, M Burnett, J Hayer, T Pascoe, R Bennett, M Kai, L Pyke, E Davies H Edwards, R Griffett, S Morse, D Chalk, L Bennett, A Gilliatt, P Harrison and L Doel.

Sunday v Pentwyn (Welsh Cup, Sully at 12.30pm): As Saturday.

JUNIOR SECTION

There is no game for the club's U11s next week, but the U13s are away to Barry Athletic (June 10) and the U15s away to Cardiff (June 12).

Centurions are in urgent need of new players for their junior sides, especially the U11s, and anyone interested is urged to contact Tom Davies on 07977349278 or call at the ground on Monday evenings from 6pm when practice sessions last around one-and-a-half hours.