SULLY Centurions’ 1st XI batted first at Ponthir and the new partnership of Sullivan and Thomas put on a century opening stand with Thomas reaching his half century on his club debut and a good 46 from Sullivan.

But the hosts fought back with two wickets in two overs as the Centurions innings faltered. But after being 156 for five, Santosh Singh (bravely playing after his nasty injury last week) and Prashant Chaudhary shared a half century partnership before Prashant was out for 37.

The innings eventually ended on a respectable 244 for six, with Santosh getting a quick-fire 51 not out. Baldwin (three for 54) and Bollen (two for 39) were the top bowlers for Ponthir.

When the hosts batted, after losing the opener for just one (via a great slip catch from Gareth Thomas, off brother Calum's bowling) the second wicket pair of Davies and Burkitt took the score along to 160 when Davies fell LBW to Pavel for 56.

Then Burkitt and Harrison added another 42 before Burkitt was LBW to the bowling of Gareth Thomas for a very well made 97. This triggered a collapse of epic proportions as Centurions finally made the breakthrough.

At a crucial stage in the innings, young Patrick Lane thought he had taken a great catch on the boundary to dismiss Price, but he had accidentally stepped over the boundary rope, giving Ponthir a life and an extra six runs.

But Centurions were undeterred and the score went from 202 for three to 230 for nine, with skipper Lloyd Bruce bagging three for 48. Gareth Thomas (three for 51) and Santosh Singh (two for 40) also pitched in.

However, the last wicket pair of Evans Woodward and Evans held their nerve and Evans (23 not out) hit the winning runs with the last ball of the 49th over. A great match, which was enjoyed by all, including the pretty large group of spectators.

Ponthir 247 for nine Sully Centurions 244 for six

The 2nd XI entertained Ponthir seconds at Burnham Avenue and lost heavily after a promising start. Ricky Griffett (46) and Steve Morse (21) put on 50 for the first wicket, but, when this pair were out, Centurions slumped to 95 all out.

It didn’t take long for the visitors to knock off the required runs without any wickets falling.

Sully Centurions II 95 all out Ponthir II 96 for zero

This weekend Centurions take on local rivals Barry Athletic. The 1st XI are at home while the seconds travel to Barry Island to play Barry 2nd XI. Both games commence at 12.30pm. All players please contact Lloyd Bruce or Dave Sylvester with your availability.