ON a bad weekend for Penarth Cricket Club, the Firsts were away to Newbridge and, after winning the toss, a young-looking side decided to field first.

This looked a good decision as Ryan Sylvester took an early wicket, but a mixture of poor bowling and questionable fielding meant the runs kept flowing for the hosts.

Leading bowlers were Mark Thomas (3-31) and young understudy Morgan Crimp (3-37), but Newbridge finally finished on a competitive 207 all out.

Penarth's reply began positively, with Sylvester and Sidford racing to 42 from six overs before the latter was bowled. Unfortunately, a procession of wickets began and Penarth eventually ended on 116 all out.

The Seconds took on Welsh Asian Seconds and, having won the toss, elected to bat and posted a total of 222 for five, with James Erazmus (68) and Neil Stephens (38 not out). Welsh Asians managed to grasp victory out of the jaws of defeat, hitting a four off the last ball to win. Young Dan Anderton took two fine wickets in a very difficult game to be a bowler.

The Thirds enjoyed a close game away to Welsh Asian Thirds. Chasing 223, Penarth made a steady start asSteve Newman (59) batted sensibly along with Steve Sims (25) on his return. With the game seemingly gone, late fireworks from Tim Miller (55) nearly saw the Bears home, but they just fell short on 208 for seven.

The club's rout was completed as the Fourths were humbled at home by Newbridge Thirds. At 48 for eight, it looked like a long afternoon in the bar before skipper Andrew Prickett (33no) and youngster Rhys McGowan (12) gave the home side a little respectability at 88 all out. Unfortunately, the visitors weren't in a generous mood, and quickly knocked off the runs without loss.

A grim weekend for the Seasiders, but, with the Firsts at home to Croesyceiliog on Saturday and entertainingTata Steel on Sunday in the Welsh Cup, along with the Seconds away to Miskin and Thirds at home to Blaina, the whole club is looking to bounce back with a vengeance.

Thanks are extended to Mark Thomas, Gregg Morgan and Rhys Morgan for volunteering to give up their Sunday afternoon to give the sight screens a much-needed lick of paint.