Slammers @ Railway Union CC August 19th 2022

Railway Union Cricket Club was the venue as the Walnut Taverners took on the Slammers in the leafy suburbs of Park Avenue, Dublin 4. As always the Slammers were gracious hosts on and off the field and as we assembled for pre-match chats and merriment, we were all reminded why this is one of the highlight fixtures of the season.
Onto the cricket, and batting first the Slammers made a cautious but steady start. Eoin struck early, bowling the Slammers' Samrat for 5.
But a diligent 22 from Ross and a cultured 20 from Mark gave the Slammers mid innings initiative.
Dave and Gavin continued the Slammers'advantage by hitting not out 20s and some robust late hitting from skipper Roger saw the Slammers post an impressive total of 130. The Walnuts' pivotal performer Josh discolated his finger in the outfield and left the field in the latter part of the innings. He then achieved the performance of the evening by popping his finger back into place! 
In reply the Walnuts got off to a brisk start thanks to accomplished stroke play from MOTM Peadar. Liam, in great form all summer, followed his fellow opener to a score of 20 as the Walnuts' batters applied early pressure.
But then the Slammers' bowlers turned the screw thanks to sharp pace from Mark, MOTM Ross and Samrat, turn from Roger while the inimitable Dave was a constant handful (and he also bowled well [😂] !)
Shot of the match was an exquisite back foot cover drive from Eoin (but in the process was unfortunately out hitting wicket). Special mention to Josh who came out to bat at a lower than usual number 6. Grimacing in pain, Josh hit a sumptuous cover drive 4 off Ross but was out two balls later, off the same bowler caught behind by Gavin - who was impeccable as always behind the stumps. 
Some late big hitting from Colin was to no avail as the Walnuts finished on 102-9.
Afterwards both sides enjoyed a wonderful barbecue provided by Railway Union CC, for which we were all very grateful, and as dusk descended on the outfield both sides drank and ate until the late hours of the evening reminiscing the past and enjoying the present.

We look forward to hosting the Slammers next season under the Walnut Tree.