CHARD 2nd XI finished their title-winning season with a seven-wicket defeat to Street.

Chard were inserted and got off to a flyer thanks to aggressive strokeplay from the experimental opening partnership of Gary Warren and Mike Kennedy.

Warren (11) soon departed, as did Andrew Stoodley and the sides batsman of the season Simon Durrance.

Kennedy was not afraid to then drop anchor for the cause, finally sailing to his maiden half-century for Chard then departing next ball for a classy 51.

Tim Glenn was responsible for Chard’s score reaching a level of respectability with a fine 23 not out, ably supported by Andy Cleal, who struck a majestic straight boundary before departing.

Chard were dismissed for 143 in the final over of the innings.

The Street reply was soon rocked by the dismissal of Kevin Wall to the pace of Cleal. When Street captain Wayne Wall was removed by Neil Wyatt the game was firmly in the balance.

Chard’s cause was not helped by the sudden withdrawal of key fielder Neville Coles due to media commitments.

Battling on with just the ten men Chard could have soon had Street four wickets down, yet uncharacteristic fielding errors meant good chances went begging.

All-rounder Durrance did finally make the breakthrough with a ball that turned at right angles, however M. Eveley with a fine 69 not out saw Street home with five overs to spare.

This defeat didn’t sour what has been a tremendous season where Chard have been a class above the vast majority of their opponents.

The team would like to thank Pete Barrett, Chris Lescorer, Bruce Crabb and Ali Warren for their assistance throughout the season.