On Wednesday 21st August, Copford took two teams to the Essex County Ground to take part in the Essex Mini Match Play. Over 50 teams took part in this three day event and we were very excited to give 20 Copford Juniors the opportunity to play at the home of Essex Cricket. Both our teams had the pleasure to be announced onto the pitch in front of a packed crowd, and given the opportunity to run through the Guard of Honour.

The whole evening was just wonderful, with the County Ground being open to all spectators, who enjoyed having the opportunity to watch their children and grandchildren under the summer sun with the bar open!

Both our boys team and our girls team played brilliantly. There were 4s and 6s being hit in all games with wickets galore across the board. There was some great sportsmanship being shown by everyone involved with both teams consisting of mixed ages and abilities. It was lovely to see our teams pull together to support and help each other all night.

Our boys team took the opportunity to finesse their cricketing skills in a fun and relaxed environment, whilst our girls team - some of whom have only started playing this year, took the chance to practice their show the progress they have made this season, not only in their cricketing abilities but their coming together as a team. Our boys won all of their games, and whilst our girls struggled, they took their defeats with their heads held high appreciating just how far they have come this season and the new friends that they have made.

Both teams ended the evening playing under the floodlights, receiving medals and having a good old sing a long to Sweet Caroline!

Huge thanks to Essex Cricket for hosting us and for putting on such a wonderful evening. Also a huge thank you to Darren Newman for managing the children for the evening. Already looking forward to next year…!

Mel Beattie
Copford Junior Cricket Manager