Harrison-Allen Bowl Preview
As soon as Neyland drew Cresselly in the last eight of this season’s Harrison-Allen Bowl, with the likes of Haverfordwest, Whitland, and Carew already out, it opened the door for one of the less talked-about sides to reach the final.
That side has proved to be Lawrenny, who have fully deserved to end their 17 year wait to contest Pembrokeshire cricket’s most high profile match.
I’m intrigued by the prospect of Saturday’s final. Cresselly are, in the eyes of most, favourites. Lawrenny will make the (very) short bus trip armed with a lot of supporters, and they’ll be more than ready to spring a surprise.
Cresselly look strong – but can be caught out!
Starting with The Doves, their batting potential is obvious. Their top order, boosted by the addition of Dan Sutton this summer, combines measured stroke players with explosive individuals. They bat deep and the Lawrenny attack can ill afford to let them get an early platform.
Their bowling attack may have lacked express pace since young Tom Murphy moved up the line, but it is varied and Neilson Cole has ample options. The way they reined in Neyland when defending a low total in that tense quarter final was hugely impressive.
But this final won’t come without its pressures for Cole and co. They have now lost three finals in four years, including the last two back to back. Yes they have home advantage, but I suspect many neutrals will root for Lawrenny. The players, especially those involved in either 2014, 16, and 17, or in some cases all three, will be desperate not to let the Bowl pass them by again.
No respecters of reputations
But while Lawrenny will arrive as underdogs, they will be anything but overawed. Division One is obviously played over a longer format, but the fact Joe Kidney’s men have beaten the top four this season, including Cresselly, proves their credentials for performing when it matters.
I watched their quarter and semi-final wins over Tish and Llangwm respectively. In both games their bowling was tight and disciplined, and their run chases were composed .
They too have their fair share of match winners with bat and ball. The likes of Rob Williams and Simon ‘Chief’ Cole again showed his class in the semi-final, whereas Brad McDermott-Jenkins can turn any game with bat or ball.
I don’t, however, buy into the theory that they have nothing to lose. Kidney has already said he sees his side as equals, not underdogs, going into Saturday. This represents a big chance for the club; one that has only come around twice before in their history, and the players will want to grab it.
No clear favourite in our eyes
This has the potential to be a cracking final, and I hope it is. Like the majority, if pushed I’d tip Cresselly given their collective strength, but by no means do I see them as clear favourites. Kidney’s side have proved they can both live with and beat the best, and it would not surprise me to see them do it again here.
Regardless, we all hope for a belter of a day – on and off the pitch!
Anorak Facts:
Neighbours at war:
It’s derby day - except this time, there’s a twist to it.
Cresselly and Lawrenny will meet in Saturday’s Harrison Allen Bowl final for the first time since 2001 - and there will no shortage of supporters from either club to watch it.
In the middle the umpires will be Alan Hansen, taking charge of his third final, and Steve Blowes, who will be in his second.
Are the hosts favourites?
On paper, many will assume the hosts are favourites in what will be their fourth Bowl final appearance in five seasons - while Lawrenny have only played in it twice in their history.
But it won’t be as simple as that. Joe Kidney’s side have already beaten The Doves in the league this season, and have also toppled title contenders Neyland, Haverfordwest, and Whitland. Yes the format for Saturday is different, but they won’t be lacking in self-belief.
Pembrokeshire Sport looks at how both sides reached the final, their competition history, and the factors that could affect Saturday.
A long awaited re-match:
It’s fair to say Cresselly are no strangers to Bowl finals.
They’ve played in 26, a record that began with defeat to Narberth in 1952 - winning 12 and losing 14.
Their last success came with a win over Neyland in 2009, but since then, defeats to Haverfordwest in 2014 and 2016 were compounded with a third straight final loss to Neyland last season.
Lawrenny have played in just two, their first a loss to Kilgetty in 1997.
But significantly, their one and only win came 17 years ago, against? You guessed it.
Both teams have players who were involved that day. It might have been back in 2001, but regardless, the desire for revenge amongst Cresselly members, or to re-live the glory for those from Lawrenny, will be strong.
Routes to the final:
Round 1: Cresselly - bye; Lawrenny - bye.
Round 2: Kilgetty (151 all out) lost to Cresselly (185-5) by 34 runs; Pembroke Dock (145 all out) lost to Lawrenny (147-1) by 9 wickets.
Quarter finals: Cresselly (112 all out) beat Neyland (108-5) by 4 runs; St Ishmaels (157-9) lost to Lawrenny (158- 5) by 5 wickets.
Semi-finals: Llangwm (126-7) lost to Lawrenny (129-4) by 6 wickets; Narberth 115 all out lost to Cresselly (116-0) by 10 wickets.
The form guide:
Some will point to Lawrenny’s 41 run over Cresselly on June 16th as proof they can prevail.
In reality that will have little bearing on Saturday - but Kidney’s men do go into this with important momentum on the back of three straight league wins.
The captains’ views:
Neilson Cole: “I am very proud to lead the club and we are all very excited to make the Bowl final again.
“For me, big game experience will be key. We are fortunate to have this running through the squad. Going into a match like this it will be invaluable in the high pressure moments of a bowl final.
“Both teams have strong batting line-ups and anything can happen in one innings, but over two innings is very different. One poor innings and it’s likely the game will be out of reach, it will be about consistency.
“I did actually feature briefly in the final 17 years ago, an injury to one of our players meant I had to field for most of the game. Both teams played well and Lawrenny deserved to win on the day, but the result hurt us.
"Since then we have reached eight finals and we are looking forward to this derby face off.”
Joe Kidney: “Having played cricket locally for many years, it has always been an ambition to play in the Harrison Allen final so to be going there with a team full of my mates makes it that much more special.
“We’ve had a terrific season mainly due to the team spirit and are being rewarded with a chance to compete in the final.
“Playing against our local rivals adds spice to it with Cresselly a top-class team and being viewed as favourites. However, I have so much confidence in my team, that I see us as equals!
“It’s been 17 years since Lawrenny last appeared in the Bowl Final and whatever happens, I’m hoping we can push on from this season with a positive mentality and reach the annual occasion more often. With the future stars in our junior set-up, it certainly looks possible.
“I’m delighted for the club, the supporters and the players to be heading to the final and hope everyone has a fantastic day.
“Up the Lawrenny!”
Cresselly Pen Pics:
Neilson Cole
His third straight final as captain, and eighth as a player. One of the sharpest keepers in the county and a competent late order batsman. Vocal behind the stumps and not shy to appeal - and will be determined to lift the Bowl as skipper.
Iwan Izzard
Vice captain who has led the team in Sunday competitions this year. At his best, a destructive top order batsman capable of annihilating any attack.
Adam Chandler
Classy batsman comfortable anywhere in the top four. Accumulates steadily but capable of accelerating the rate as well. Came so close to getting his team over the line with a superb knock in the 2016 final.
Dan Sutton
His first Bowl final after signing from Johnston. Will open the batting and Lawrenny will know the importance of getting the prolific run getter early. Potential match winner.
Alex Bayley
Another attacking batsman who featured in the 2016 and 2017 finals. Hard hitter capable of changing the course of an innings. One to think about when parking your car.
Simon Cole
Showed his class with 77 in the league against Neyland recently, and his slow bowling is also a real asset. A former Bowl man of the match winner, has recovered from a calf injury that hampered him earlier this summer.
Ryan Lewis
His bowling helped turn the game in that tense quarter final win over Neyland, and certainly no slouch with the bat either. Smashed a rapid century against Lawrenny in the Welsh Cup this season and they can ill afford to let him get going on Saturday.
Dan James
A Bowl winner with Whitland in 2012. Proven wicket taker who has bowled in some tense situations with Cresselly past two seasons, and can score quick in the middle or lower order.
Mike Shaw
Effective off spin bowler who can exert control and puts the ball on the spot from the word go. Genuine all-rounder and a real consistent performer.
Tom Arthur
Has excelled in his role as a change bowler this year taking key wickets at crucial times - including a seven wicket haul in the league. Took 2-24 in a good spell in the semi-final.
Sion Jenkins
Been important with the new ball this season, no more so than at Tish last Saturday. Was in contention for the 2016 final but it clashed with his wedding day - so looking to make his first final appearance.
Dan Cherry
Work at Glamorgan limits his appearances but his class with the bat is well known - and likely to bowl as well. Played a chanceless match winning knock when The Doves beat Haverfordwest in the league, and Lawrenny will want him gone early to prevent another one here.
Sam Harts
Played in the 2016 and 2017 finals and if selected will give everything - either with the new ball or as first change. A good club man and one of the characters of the dressing room.
Lawrenny Pen Pictures:
Joe Kidney
Took over the reins half way through this season and has led the club to its third final. A never say die attitude and an explosive left hand bat who’s hard hitting could be a big factor in the final. No one will be trying harder on Saturday.
Brad McDermott-Jenkins
Club vice-captain who can change a game with bat or ball. A powerful hitter and real competitor. Spent the 2015 season at Cresselly and will be keen to put on a show on Saturday.
James Phillips
Wicket keeper promoted from the 2nds, and has followed father Barry in playing for Lawrenny. Currently topping the most keeper catches in Division One, and a big hitter with te bat.
Rob Williams
His third Bowl final. ‘Worm’ is an old head capable of tight spells and wickets under pressure. Took 3-22 in the semi final and will be pushed up the order if quick runs are needed.
Jamie Lewis
‘Helm’ can swing the new ball both ways. Clever bowler that niggles away at the off stump. Despite batting number 11, can hold his nerve in a tense finale.
Ryan Morton
A youngster but unfazed by pressure situations. Ryan has come through the 2nds and is now a really tight bowler who will be used. Can also hit any ball over the top.
Simon Cole
His second final, ‘Chiefy’ is a proven match-winner with his batting. Showed this with a classy 49 in the semi-final and can also bowl if required.
Patrick Elliott
A terrific fielder and has buckets for hands. A middle-order batsman who has the technique to put any ball away, and great to watch when in form.
Ian Jenkins
The father figure of the team. Has played in two previous finals for Lawrenny and if needed to bowl, his experience will be vital.
Phil Cole
The legs of the team. A major part of the success this season due to his resistance when batting, and will give everything on Saturday. Also club secretary.
Harry Thomas
Been key in the Bowl campaign with scores 55 and 35 in the earlier rounds. A youngster who opens the batting and will take on a bowling attack. Set to face his former club.
Steven Lewis
Has recovered from a shoulder injury to put himself in contention for the big day. Having played in two previous finals, his experience could prove valuable and when on song, one of the most frightening batsmen in the county when he gets going.
Matthew Lewis
Regarded as the best fielder in the club. Has shown he can handle any level and is a destructive batsman who shows little respect for bowlers. His unorthodox bowling action can cause problems.
Steven Campbell
A huge part of Lawrenny. His batting has boosted the 2nds for years and has recently hit 67 not out and 44 against Haverfordwest and Burton for the 1sts.
Match Officials:
Umpires:
Steve Blowes
Spent 33 years in the Metropolitan Police, where he played for his divisional team and the Hurlingham Oddfellows in local league cricket. Came to Pembrokeshire on retirement in 2003 and played as a wicket-keeper batsman at Camrose before becoming Hon Sec of the Pembroke County Cricket Club, a post he still holds today. Officiated at his first final in 2013 with Trefor Evans, where Neyland beat Llangwm, and is understandably looking forward to his second one!
Allan Hansen
Now in his nineteenth season on the umpiring circuit and has officiated in two previous Harrison-Allen finals in 2005 and 2012.He lists the loves of his life as his four grandchildren, who are doing their best to ensure he never becomes a wealthy man! His pet dislike is badly- behaved cricketers and in his spare time he likes to combine his passion for birdwatching with foreign travel.
Scorers:
Tegan Cartwright (Cresselly):
Does a great job scoring week in, week out, for the first XI and the team will want to get her the winner’s medal they think her work deserves. One of the younger scorers in the county but a very thorough one.
