A new feature from the lockdown summer of 2020.....On This Day....looking through the West Mersea archives of the last seventy years.
1st May
In 1989, Michael Laver was run out for 98 in a friendly win at Bures. It would be another three years before he scored his first and only century...uncomfortable tea interval. In the same game David Maiden made his Mersea debut.
In 2011, Chris Storrar took 6 for 2 as Bocking were bowled out for 90 in the First Round of the NECL Cup, Mersea going on to win by 9 wickets.
Not so good in 1982, in an NECL D1 league match at Birch (surrounded by sheep), Birch scored 152 for 4, and then skittled Mersea for 31.
2nd May
The 1954 season opened with Mersea entertaining Kelvedon. Sid Vince top scored with 29 in Mersea innings of 102, before Lou Green 6 for 39 saw the visitors dismissed for 79....Bowlers wicket in them days.
In 1981 Trevor Vince carried his bat in a friendly against Birch, for an unbeaten 78 in Mersea total of 132 for 9. In reply Birch were 83 for 6 as the match was drawn.
2009 saw the Jon Tidman’s Two Counties marauders travel to St Margarets 2nds. Mersea batted first and racked up a massive 291 for 8, David Taylor 85no and Luke Conway 85 from 36 balls, including six sixes, shared a sixth wicket stand of 140. Incredibly it was not enough as St Margarets successfully chased down the target for the loss of five wickets, and two overs to spare. Adam Passfield was unfortunate to make his Mersea debut in the game.
In 2011, Stuart Mills 41 & 4 for 37, starred in an NECL D1 top of the table clash against Copford at The Glebe. Mersea posted 231 for 7, and then restricted Copford to 224 for 7 to win by 7 runs.
2015 saw an agonising defeat at Eight Ash Green in the TC Div 6, Mersea were bowled out for 152, and lost the game by one wicket, victory coming in the 52nd over.
3rd May
50 years ago, the 1970 season opener saw Harwich & Dovercourt visit The Glebe. Batting first they were bowled out for 50 in 19 overs, with John Pope taking 5 for 15. However, that was enough as Mersea were bowled out for 47 in reply !
In 1986 a 6th wicket partnership of 59 between Michael Harvey 47, and Kevin Hewes 39 recovered Mersea from 54 for 5 to close at 175, in a home NECL D1 match with Colchester & E.E and set them on their way to a 21 run win.
1999 saw an unbroken 5th wicket stand of 135, between Ian Young 101no and Graham Pryke 65no, as Mersea posted 218 for 4 in a 26 run victory over Silver End in NECL D2.
2014 saw a rare victory for the Two Counties second eleven, as they beat Boxted by 37 runs. Peter Phillips 81no out of 163 for 3, and Amit Tiwari 3 for 25 off 15 overs the outstanding performers for Mersea
4th May
Yesterday’s defeat by Harwich & Dovercourt was an improvement ! Today in 1969, Mersea travelled to Harwich and bowled the hosts out for 129...a total they never got close to as they were bowled out for 17 !
1997 saw Kevin Hewes excel on a sticky wicket at The Glebe, against Clacton Ramblers in NECL D1. Coming on as sixth change bowler (don’t know who the captain was...possibly Mills) he returned 7 for 13 as Clacton were bowled out for 91. He then gritted out an unbeaten 21 from the opening slot, and saw Mersea home to a three wicket win, largely due to an unbroken 8th wicket stand of 25 with Dabby Hempstead.
2009 saw a rare victory over High Easter in NECL D3, Neil Goodridge 81 and Michael Laver 34 sharing a 111 run partnership in a Mersea total of 222 for 9. Easter were bowled out for 198 in reply, with Steven Sheldrick taking 4 for 52.
Bank Holiday Monday 2015, saw Adam Rutter 88 out of 189 for 9, the only player on the day to show any fluency with the bat, in a 78 run win over Nowton in TCD6.
5th May
2013 an explosive 1st Round NECL Cup encounter with Cavaliers at The Glebe, Matt White
having to leave the game at 2.30pm opened the innings with license to pinch hit and smashed 106 from 45 balls, including 11 sixes. (He's never done it again since !) In comparison, Luke Conway century (109 from 65 balls) must have been positively boring ...Mersea were bowled out for 304 and won by 81 runs.
1996 saw a much more tense affair at The Glebe in NECL D1, Stuart Mills (5 for 15) bowled the islanders into a strong position as Little Clacton were bowled out for 78. However, in reply Mersea made a mess of things stumbling to 35 for 7, before Dave Hawkes (17) and Dabby Hempstead put on an 8th wicket stand of 25. With the ninth wicket falling on 71 it was left to Dabby (13no) and Phil Hammond (4no) to inch Mersea to a nervy 1 wicket success.
Notable debuts on this day, Mark Mahon (1985), Phil Hammond (1990) and Luke Sawkins (2002)
6th May
In 1985 Mersea put two friendly sides out on a Bank Holiday Monday ...those were the days ! At home Mersea entertained Wormingford and saw Dabby Hempstead take 7 for 9, as the visitors were bowled out for 99. In reply Mersea won by 3 wickets, with a certain Stuart Mills on debut hitting the winning boundary in an unbeaten 5. The away friendly at Eastcliff saw Mersea bowled out for 88, and then restrict the home side to 88 for 9 for an exciting Drawn match !
In 2000 at Castle Park Ian Young scored an unbeaten 107, sharing a fourth wicket stand of 137 with Matt Newton (42) as Mersea compiled 196 for 5 against CEE 3rd XI. The home side made light work of the reply winning by 7 wickets.
In 2007 First Round Cup action saw Alex Young (6 for 11) put Lexden to the sword, as Mersea progressed by 6 wickets.
Finally between 1956 and 1962 the season opener was against SJ Graham XI, (don’t know who he was), but a fixture that Mersea never won, despite on this day in 1956 and 1962 Lou Green claiming figures of 7 for 23, and 6 for 25 respectively.
7th May
Probably remembered most for 2000, against Lexden at home in D2. Lexden had scored 161 for 1, and in reply Mersea had slipped to 84 for 5. A 6th wkt stand of 65 between Mick Laver (48) and Stuart Mills, got Mersea back in the game. However, come the last ball of the innings, Mersea still required 3 to win, no problem for Mills (37no) who dispatched it for 6 to see Mersea to a four wicket victory.
In 1984 at home to Wormingford, 19 year old Paul Sorrell made an impressive 69 on his Mersea debut in a 73 run win. Neil Goodridge made his debut in the same game, recording a DNB and bowling figures of 2 for 5.
Mixed fortunes in 1989 which saw two friendlies on this day, at home Michael Laver (87) top scored in a one run win at home to Clacton Ramblers, while the game at Taverners saw a six wicket defeat, despite Snudger, Andy Harvey recording a career best 111 not out.
Some notable debuts on this day, in 1988 Darren Rumble, in 2005, Chris Storrar and in 2016 Allan Highfield
8th May
1977 saw Mersea play their first ever North Essex Cricket League game (Greene King League) at Lexden. The Mersea side for the game was TJ Vince, M Seeley, M Hughes, M Deane, J Pope, D Hempstead, D Passfield, P Sadler, M Laver, D Green & S D’Wit. Mersea bowled Lexden out for 83, with Sadler 4-10 and Michael Laver 3-23 taking wickets. In reply Dabby Hempstead top scored with 29 as Mersea were bowled out for 58 and defeat by 25 runs.
In 1982 Mersea defended 65 against NALGO, Percy Sadler 5 for 13 and Richard Bond 5 for 36 dismissing NALGO for 55. Mersea only used two bowlers, Sadler was into his 20th over, while Spike had bowled 19.
In 2011, Luke Conway top scored with 93 in a 39 run win over Boxted 2nd, Mersea posting 198 for 8.
9th May
In 1971, Michael Laver was embarking out on a record breaking season with the ball, in his 2nd game of the season he bowled an epic spell of 21 overs to claim 7 for 48 in a 39 run win over Halstead NALGO.
In 1998 the seconds defeated their Shalford counterparts by 53 runs, Ian Young top scoring with an unbeaten 62 in Mersea total of 192 for 4. Eleven year old Alex Young made his Mersea debut...wouldn’t happen now without parental waiver !
1999 saw Daniel Harness top score with 87 in a ten run win over Marks Tey for the 2nd XI in NECL D3.
Finally, in 2015 there was a near miss for Adam Rutter, who scored 94 in a 41 run victory in the Two Counties D6 game with Felixstowe Corinthians. Luke. Conway returned 5 for 55 in the same game.
10th May
In 1987, Dabby Hempstead scored a career best 88 in a home friendly against Wickham Bishops. In the same game, which Mersea won by 86 runs, Mel Hughes scored 55.
In 1998, another 11 year old, Luke Bruce made his debut for the club, in a 12 run D1 defeat at the hands of Little Clacton. Chasing 136 to win, Mersea collapsed from 118 for 5 to 123 all out.
In 2008, Luke Conway scored 113 out of Mersea’s 261 for 7, in a 74 run win over Brockley 2nd in Two Counties.
In 2009, there were half centuries for Alex Young (58) and Daniel Harness (57) as Mersea posted 238 to beat Bocking by 38 runs, in NECL D1
11th May
A traumatic day in 2003, in NECL D2 Mersea travelled to Shalford and after batting first and posting a massive 271 for 5, Kevin Hewes 82no and Adam Rutter 63, top scoring were defeated by 7 wickets, with seven overs to spare ! South African J Labuschagne posting an unbeaten 163 (a relative of Marnus ?)
At home on the same day the 2nd XI were defeated by one wicket to Halstead Fenns with 3 balls to spare. This despite the efforts of Michael Laver who top scored with 85, and then claimed 5 for 28.
In 2014 there was the rarity of Tied Match for the 2nd XI, Luke Conway 50 and Graham Bowers 40 top scoring in Mersea total of 171 for 6 against Gosfield. In reply Gosfield required 14 of the last over, and tied the game with the second all run three of the over !
In 2013 Chris Graham made his debut, and a blast from the past in 1986 Paul Downs (aka The Hooded Claw) and Ginger Stainforth made their debut in the same game.
12th May
In just over 3200 matches played since 1950, Mersea teams have lost by 10 wickets on 35 occasions, however, 3 of them have been on this date. In 2013 Mersea achieved a double whammy, as the 1sts lost to High Easter, and the 2nds to Gosfield by a ten wicket margin in their respective NECL games. In those games, Tony Bailey made his debut against Gosfield, and Trent Pollard did likewise against High Easter.
Roll the clock on to 2019, and Mersea 2s were beaten by 10 wickets by Earls Colne in the TCD9S. Graham Pryke carried his bat for an unbeaten 70 out of a Mersea total of 88 for 3 in 35 overs, accounting for 79.5% of the Mersea total !
Better times in 2002 when Mersea edged a tight encounter with old rivals St Osyth in NECL D2. Mersea posted 151 for 7, with Alex Young 38 and Stuart Mills 28 top scoring. Mills 3 for 36 and Young 2 for 29 then helped to defend the total as Toosy were bowled out for 143 and defeat by 8 runs.
13th May
In 1995 an under strength 1st XI beat Silver End in D1 by 4 wickets. Dabby Hempstead 5 for 12 had helped bowled Silver End out for 75. Mersea cruised to 43 without loss, before losing 6 wickets for 25 runs to set up a nervy finish.
In 2006 in D1 Mersea crushed unbeaten leaders West Bergholt by 97 runs, skittling them for 68. Skipper Darren Rumble 3-25, Luke Bruce 3-3 and Kevin Hewes 3-32 sharing the wickets.
In 2012, the 2s beat Wickham Bishops in D5 by 7 wickets chasing 181. Ian Young 72 and Neil Goodridge 63no shared a third wicket stand of 122.
In 1984, two friendly matches ended in close fought draws. At Boxted the home side posted 157 for 6, in reply Mersea were 145 for 8 at the close, with Ian Young 50 and Chris Hempstead 44 top scoring. At Clacton Ramblers it was even closer, the home side restricted to 143 for 9, with David Green taking 5 for 54 from 14 overs. Despite an opening stand of 93 between Andrew Game 45 and Trevor Vince 62, Mersea eventually closed at 138 for 5.
Debuts on this day, in 1950 Phillip Elias, 1967 Mick Deane and in 2001 Mike Srinivasan.
14th May
In 1977, Mersea recorded their first ever NECL league win, a 47 run victory at Woods. Michael Laver 43 top scored in Mersea total of 123 for 9. Woods bowled out for 76 in reply, Derek Wheat with 3 for 19 the pick of the bowlers. Mick Sutton made his debut in the game.
In 1983, Mersea started out on what was to be a D2 championship winning season with a home game against Chappel & Wakes Colne. Mersea slumped to 46 for 8, before a 9th wkt stand of 57 between David Fahie (11) and Percy Sadler (42) lifted the score to 104 all out. In reply CWC were bowled out for 74, Kevin Hewes 4 for 23 capitalising, after miserly spells from Dabby Hempstead 1 for 11 from 10, and Percy Sadler 1 for 16 from 10.
In D2 in 2000, Stuart Mills starred with both bat and ball in a 196 run win over Silver End. Daniel Harness 102 and Mills 89 shared a 3rd wkt stand of 132, as Mersea posted 257 for 4. In reply, Mills 5 for 13 demolished the visitors as they were routed for 61.
Another high scoring game in 2006, as the 2s racked up 290 for 8 against Earls Colne & Bures.
Luke Conway 120 and Neil Goodridge 44 putting on a second wicket stand of 160. In reply the visitors made a good attempt reaching 242 for 8.
60 years ago in 1960, a young 17 year old Dabby Hempstead made his debut ! He got a duck batting at five, but took 3 for 22 in an 82 run defeat at the hands of Birch.
15th May
In 1977 at the start of their first league campaign, Mersea had lost one and won one, so against Wivenhoe in their third match they managed to achieve the full house, and claim their first league tie. Batting first Mersea were going nicely at 77 for 2, with Trevor Vince scoring 34. However, they collapsed to 91 all out. It looked to be enough when Michael Laver 4 for 29, helped reduce Wivenhoe to 59 for 8. That became 71 for 9, and a last wicket partnership brought the scores level. With all the main bowlers bowled out it was Mick Deane who would strike with his 4th ball, with Mel Hughes claiming a catch at the wicket.
In 2005 in the NECL D1, Peter Phillips 40no and Dabby Hempstead 12no, the two oldest players on the pitch, combined for an unbroken 9th wkt stand of 55 to see Mersea to a 2 wicket win at home to Witham.
In 2011, Richard Fuller 76 and Tom Sanderson 37, combined to post a club record 8th wicket stand of 117, to lift the score from 113 for 7 to 230, which enabled Mersea to defeat Lexden by 65 runs.
In 2016, not the best of days as Mersea could only muster 7 players for their NECL trip to Springfield. The magnificent seven did not do too bad picking up 5 points in a six wicket defeat, after surviving their 40 overs to post 153 for 5.
16th May
In 1976 Mersea won a friendly at The Glebe beating Clacton Ramblers by 62 runs, John Pope 6 for 24, dismissing visitors.
The early eighties saw some particularly feisty and close fought league games with Eight Ash Green, in 1981 Mersea won at Eight Ash Green by three runs, having been bowled out for 108. Bob Judd in his first season with the club top scored in the game with 49.
On the same day at The Glebe, a 2nd XI were getting beaten by NALGO, after restricting the visitors to 102 for 8, they were bowled out for 46....was it a memorable debut for Andy Harvey (0no) , Graham Pryke (5 & 0 for 6) and David Fahie (1).
In 1987 the left handed middle order came good for Mersea in a 4 wicket win at home to Kelvedon. The Great White Hope, Michael Harvey 68no signalled his arrival on the scene and with Kevin Hewes put on an unbroken 7th wkt stand of 67 to win the game.
In 2009 the TCD8 match at Braintree 3rds ended in a tie, Adam Rutter 62 and Gregor Irvine 59no both scoring half centuries in the Mersea innings of 193 all out. Braintree were 193 for 8 in reply with Luke Conway taking 4 for 37.
17th May
In 1998 Scot Farthing claimed the performance of the season against Tiptree United for the 2s. Batting first Mersea posted 153 for 7, only for Tiptree to be cruising to victory needing 9 runs with six wickets in hand. Scot was reintroduced into the attack for a second spell, after seeing his first six overs go for 32. However, from his next twelve deliveries he returned figures of 6 for 2, as Tiptree collapsed to 153 all out and the match ended in an unlikely tie.
In 2009, Darren Rumble claimed 5 for 22 as Chappel & Wakes Colne were dismissed for 46, and defeat by 140 runs in NECL D1.
In 2014 it was the ninth biggest win recorded by a Mersea team, with a 213 run win over Felixstowe Corinthians in TCD6. Mersea posted 249 for 9, with David Taylor (109) scoring a century. In reply, Felixstowe were shot out for 36, with Luke Bruce taking a career best 6 for 12.
In 1981, there was a debut for the eldest of the four Golding brothers to have played for Mersea, John, who did so against Clacton Ramblers
18th May
In 1957, Lou Green took 7 for 35 as Colchester Garrison were bowled out for 84. Unfortunately, for Mersea it was enough as the islanders were bowled out for 64 and defeat by 20 runs.
In 1974, there was an exciting friendly at Eight Ash Green, Mersea winning by two runs. Dabby Hempstead 53 and Martin Cock 33 had top scored in the Mersea innings of 147. Eight Ash Green were bowled out for 145 with Michael Laver 3-36, John Pope 3-43 and Hempstead 3-44, sharing the wickets.
In 2008, there was NECL double over Chappel & Wakes Colne, the 1sts chased 102 at The Glebe, and were 56 for 6, before Peter Phillips 26 and Chris Storrar 15 edged them to a two wicket victory. It was more comfortable for the 2nds at Chappel, they chased 193 to win by 7 wickets.
David Taylor 83no, Michael Laver 44 and Graham Bowers 32no seeing Mersea home.
Finally, today in 2020 a half century for Scot Farthing (happy 50th birthday)...how old do some of us feel now !
19th May
In 2002 Mersea beat Lexden at The Glebe by 24 runs after posting just 133. Kevin Hewes 38 and Alex Young 45 sharing a 4th wicket stand of 71. In reply Lexden were bowled out for 109, with Dabby Hempstead 4-18, Stud Hempstead 2 for 18 and Stuart Mills 2 for 23 sharing the bulk of the wickets.
In 2007, Mersea made their debut in the Two Counties competition, with a trip to Haverhill 2nd, which ended in a 111 run defeat. The side on that historic day was Richard Fuller, Chris Coleman, Luke Conway, Jon Tidman, Gregor Irvine, John Woods, Croc Bruton, Rhys Humphreys, James Rutter, Martin Humphreys and David Fahie.
In 2012, David Taylor 84 and Tom Sanderson(37) shared a 6th wicket stand of 106 as Mersea defeated Coggeshall 4th in the TCD8S by 118 runs.
In 2018, Mersea got the better of a high scoring encounter against Woolpit 3rd in TCD7, winning by 27 runs after posting 253 for 4, Ali Manhire and Luke Conway both posting 75 in the Mersea total.
Mersea debuts on this day, in 1973 Derek Wheat against Eight Ash Green, and more recently in 2018 Henry Reilly, and 2019 Lewis Ayton
20th May
In 2006, West Mersea 2nd bt Cavaliers in NECL D3 by two wickets. Cavaliers were bowled out for 145 after Neil Goodridge 4 for 22, including a hatrick, had dramatically intervened. In reply, Mersea seemed to be cruising reaching 108 for 1, only for Mersea to slump to 125 for 8, effectively 9, as football club chairman Jon Tidman had left the ground to attend the football dinner. Having seen five of his partners dismissed for a duck, Luke Conway (43no) took matters into his own hands by dispatching the first five balls of the 34th over 2-6-2-6-6 to see Mersea home, and leaving Cavaliers somewhat bemused !
In 2007, Kevin Hewes rewrote the league record books for Mersea, his bowling figures against West Bergholt 10-10-0-0. (I will see if I can rustle up the clipping). Unfortunately despite the perfect ten he still ended up on the losing side by five wickets.
In 2017, Matt Wilkin redressed the balance at West Bergholt in the TCD6. Chasing 150 to win, Mersea slumped to 62 for 7, before Wilkin and Adam Passfield (19) put on 71 for the 8th wicket. Wilkin (45no) & Tom Sanderson then steered Mersea to a two wicket success.
Debuts on this day, former Abberton wicket keeper Ken Brush started in 1989, and in the 2017 Bergholt game, Ali Manhire made his first appearance for Mersea
21st May
In 2011, Jack Luckman made his debut for the club in a friendly at Chappel & Wakes Colne. He scored 68, and at 14ys 233 days, it is the youngest recorded fifty in a senior game, by a Mersea player. He enjoyed a ninth wicket partnership of 103 with David Fahie.
In 1955, in a friendly against Tolleshunt Knights, Mersea bowled their opponents out for 18, the seventh lowest score recorded by an opponent. Mersea won by 6 wickets.
In 1978, Dabby Hempstead claimed 6 for 6, as Mersea bowled out Clacton Ramblers for 20, and a win by 66 runs.
In 1995, in a third eleven league match in NECL D6, Mersea defeated Silver End 2nd by 110 runs. Darren Rumble took a career best 7 for 18.
Gary Conway made his debut in 1988, and Steve Smith made his in 2016.
22nd May
In 1954 a Mersea XI were bowled out for 35 against Turner Village, and won by 15 runs, Ted Mills returning figures of 8 for 9 !
In 1994, Mersea 3rd XI beat Abberton 3rd XI in NECL D6 by 122 runs, with Roy Jones (56no) scoring his fourth career fifty.
Luke Bruce enjoyed this day with the ball, in 2005 he took 5 for 18 as Colchester Garrison slumped from 71 for 1 to 118 all out in NECL D1, Mersea got home by 5 wickets.
Six years later, 2011, Bruce took 5 for 26 as St Osyth were bowled out for 144 in NECL D1. It was a much more nervier run chase, after Stuart Mills (47) at the top of the order, the side collapsed to 142 for 9. The unexpected hero giving Mersea a one wicket success, was Ricky Provan, Chuckles hitting a winning boundary, giving him plenty to smile about.
23rd May
In 1953, Sid Vince took 7 for 10 as Mersea bowled Birch out for 22, and victory by 116 runs.
In 1971, there was a tied match at Clacton Ramblers, Martin Cock top scored with 17 in the Mersea innings of 75 all out, and then took career best bowling figures of 7 for 30, as well as two catches.
The 1st XI in the NECL have recorded two ten wicket victories, in 1992 in D1 Mersea bowled Boxted out for 70, with Scot Farthing taking 4 for 15. Michael Laver
(25no) and Ian MacDonald (40no) then knocked off the runs. In 1999, in D2 Mersea dismissed Little Clacton for 81, Kevin Hewes taking 5 for 19, and then John Webb (37no) and Hewes (36no) took Mersea to victory.
In 2010, the 2nd XI suffered a 192 run defeat, as Elmstead Grasshoppers racked up the 5th highest ever total against a Mersea side, 381 for 5.
Cam Williams made his debut in 2009, against Tendring in the Two Counties.
24th May
In 1970, Mersea beat Clacton Ramblers by 6 runs. Michael Laver (46no) had top scored in Mersea total of 131. Martin Cock (4 for 19) and David Green (4 for 47) helped bowl Ramblers out for 125.
In 1987, Mersea won a tense D1 encounter with Lexden. Having bowled Lexden out for 110, with Michael Harvey (3 for 23 from 10) the pick of the bowlers, Mersea slumped to 41 for 5 in reply. Ian Young (26) and Bob Judd (34) then steered Mersea toward a three wicket success.
In 2008, Mersea racked up a then club record 334 for 7 against Ipswich 4th in TCD9. A 45 ball century for Luke Conway (114) and an unbeaten 72 for Chris Storrar paving the way towards the big total. In 12 years since this total is now the 8th highest total !
Plenty of runs about in two NECL games in 2009, the 1st XI posted 312 for 8, in a 79 run win over St Osyth in D1. Stuart Mills, Daniel Harness and Luke Conway
all scoring fifties.
In D3 the 2s scored 263 for 5 against Little Clacton, with Richard Fuller (102) and John Woods (60) putting on 167 for the 4th wicket. Incredibly it was not enough as Little Clacton cruised to an eight wicket success !
25th May
In 1963, a double header against Coggeshall. The 1st XI travelled to Coggeshall and were beaten by 122 runs, with Trevor Greenleaf making his debut. In the home match, the 2s won by 6 wickets, after Lou Green claimed 9 for 27 as Coggeshall were dismissed for 56. David Green made his Mersea debut in this game.
In 1986, John Pope claimed 6 for 9 from 9 overs as Mersea 2s inflicted a 59 run defeat on Boxted 2s in the Reserve League, of the NECL. Mersea were bowled out for 106.
Plenty of Mersea centuries about on this day, in 1992 Mark Mahon (102) posted his only century in a 151 run victory over Birch.
1997 saw Daniel Harness (143no) and Michael Laver (61) put on an opening stand of 184, as the 2s posted 251 for 3, and defeated Grasshoppers 2s by 36 runs. Laver claiming a five for in the Hoppers reply, returning 6 for 54.
In 2006, Luke Bruce (112no) scored his maiden century in an 8 run victory over Dutch touring side CC Groenendaal.
And in 2009, Adam Rutter (100) reached three figures, as Mersea amassed 329 for 8 against Braintree College, Simon Lambert (51) and Chris Storrar (56) also contributing. However, their efforts were in vain as the College reached 205-3, with 18 overs remaining, when rain intervened.
26th May
In 1956, Wally Murray took career best figures of 7 for 19 in bowling Tolleshunt D’Arcy out for 56. Mersea won the game by 3 wickets.
In 1990, Stuart Mills (99) missed out on a century, enjoying a then record fifth wicket stand of 153 with Scot Farthing in a Drawn friendly with Bures. Farthing have a rare excursion at the top of the order (batting at 3) scored a maiden fifty and went onto finish with a career best 73no.
In 1997, Stuart Hempstead (5 for 17) saw Mersea claim D1 success over Maldon by 67 runs. Mersea had posted 192 for 8, largely due to a sixth wicket stand of 75, between Matt Golding (40) and Stephen Rumble (37no).
In 2012, records were smashed in a home Two Counties match with Kelvedon & Feering 3rd, as Mersea posted a massive 410 for 4. Adam Rutter (206) posted a club record individual score, and the first and only double centurion to date. A first wicket stand of 144 with Stuart Mills (64), and then a 4th wicket stand of 120 with Luke Conway (74no) saw Mersea reach their imposing total. Kelvedon were then dismissed for 67, Mersea thereby recording their biggest ever win of 343 runs.
Another high scoring match 12 months ago saw Mersea fall agonisingly short of Woolpit 3rds 309 for 7. David Taylor (83), Luke Conway (69) and James Rutter (53) saw Mersea get to 304 for 7 and defeat by 5 runs.
Not very memorable debuts on this day for Matt Golding in 1991 against Earls Colne 2nd, Mersea bowled out for 35 and defeat by 189 runs, while Chris Warren debuted in 2018 in a Mersea side that was bowled out for 39, and defeat by 10 wickets at West Bergholt 2nds.
27th May
In 1979 Mersea won what was to be an important victory come the end of the season in D1, against Kirby. Having only scored 127 for 8, largely due to Mel Hughes (37), Kirby were bowled out for 72, with John Pope 4-10 and Dabby Hempstead 2-13 from 9, impressing with the ball.
In 1995 a strong 3rd XI defeated Colchester & E.E. 2nds in NECL D6 by 101 runs. Stud Hempstead 68no and Stuart Mills 66 both scoring fifties in the Mersea total of 267.
In 2013, Mersea defeated Tendring in NECL D4 by 200 runs. Mersea’s total of 292 including half centuries for Luke Conway (55) and Ian Young (55).
In 1990 the legend that was Dick Baron made his debut, in a 1st XI league match against Wivenhoe...what were we thinking !
28th May
In 1967 as Francis Chichester was sailing into Plymouth, having been the first man to sail around the world single handidly, Mel Hughes was making his Mersea debut against Earls Colne, and embark on a career that would see real longevity, seeing him make over 1000 appearances, score almost 15000 runs and take well over 500 catches for the club. On that May Day 53 years ago he scored 6 as Mersea were bowled out for 22, in a 141 run defeat.
In 1989 Terry Gander bowled 20 balls in a D5 match with Boxted 2nd, returning figures of 6 for 5 to bowl the visitors out for 62 and victory by 114 runs.
In 2006, Mersea bowled out Great Bromley for 111 and won by 4 wickets in D1, birthday boy Luke Conway taking 6 for 24.
In 2011, in the Two Counties D9, Mersea were defeated by 65 runs by Worlington 2nd, Matt Wilkin was just in credit having taken 4 for 95 in the Worlington innings of 290 for 9, he posted his maiden (and only to date) century scoring an unbeaten 103. There was a 99 run partnership for the 7th wicket with Jack Luckman (21).
In 2016, something of a rarity, a double win for the Two Counties sides, the 1s chased down Easton 2s 211 for 4, Luke Conway (89) and David Taylor (66) leading the run chase as Mersea won by 5 wickets. While the 2s successfully chased down Maldon 4ths 102 at The Glebe. Steve Smith had taken 5-25, and then Peter Phillips (24) and Michael Laver (21no) edged the 2s to a 5 wicket success.
29th May
In 1978 a first ever league encounter with local rivals, Abberton, saw Mersea claim the honours with a 41 run victory. Mersea were bowled out for 91, before dismissing their opponents for just 50. Mick Pugh (3-18), Percy Sadler (2-6) and Derek Wheat (2-7) the significant wicket takers.
In 1983, it seems destiny was already at work for the D2 title winning side. Batting first at home to Tollesbury, Mersea slumped to 26 for 6 and 68 for 8, with Ian Young scoring 29. A ninth wicket stand of 61 between Percy Sadler (37) and Michael Laver (32) saw Mersea up to 137 all out in the last of their 35 overs. In reply, Tollesbury were restricted to 137 for 8 and the match was tied. (Not sure how many Tollesbury required off the last over...but it doesn’t look like it was many !)
In 1988, Paul Sorrell scored 128 as Mersea posted 210 for 7 at Eight Ash Green in D1. Sixteen year old Stuart Mills scored an important unbeaten 29 at the end of the innings, before taking 2 for 29 from his 10 overs as the Green came up 5 runs short.
In 1994, the 3rd XI were rampant in their D6 encounter with Maldon 4ths. Stephen Rumble (94no), Kenny Brush (73), and Robert Cornish (40) made major contributions as Mersea reached 280 for 5. Paul Bartholomew then returned the second best bowling figures in the last thirty years, with 8 for 14, as Maldon were bowled out for 27, and defeat by 253 runs.
In 2004, Matt Golding scored an unbeaten 62, as Mersea cruised to a six wicket success at St Osyth, chasing 175 for victory in D1 of the NECL.
30th May
In 1959 Sid Vince had a stellar game for Mersea in a 99 run victory over Coggeshall. He score 61 with the bat, and then followed it up with bowling figures of 7 for 18...I think he got the man of the match !
In 1971, Michael Laver took 8 for 42 as Tolleshunt D’Arcy were bowled out for 83 at The Glebe. The performance, however, was in a losing cause as Mersea, despite Mel Hughes (25) and Mick Seeley (25), scoring over half the runs, were bowled out for 81, and defeat by two runs.
Two more close encounters in 1987, the 1s travelled to Great Bentley and after Michael Laver (64) and Paul Sorrell (60) had put on 137 for the 1st wicket, they collapsed to 175 all out (38 for 10) ! It nearly was enough as Bentley scraped home by one wicket. Meanwhile, at The Glebe, the 2s also had an encouraging start with Ian MacDonald (71) and John Webb (43) putting on 97 for the 1st wicket against Elmstead 2s. However, as with the 1s after a big opening stand the team were restricted to 168 for 9. Conversely to the 1s it proved just enough, as Andrew Game took 4 for 40, and Mersea won by one run !
In 2011 there was plenty of runs at Copford in D1, as Mersea posted 257 for 7, including an unbroken 8th wicket stand of 90, between Darren Rumble (51*) and James Rutter (32*) - which is still the 4th highest 8th wkt stand. Unfortunately it was not enough as Copford chased down the Mersea total to win by 4 wickets.
Finally, in 2015 a century for Adam Rutter (106) ...joining the Matt White 106 club...in a successful 5 wicket run chase against Melton St Audrey.
A debut in 1983 at Kirby, for the ridiculous laugh of one a John Webb.
31st May
In 1975 Mersea travelled to Boxted, and after floundering at 12 for 3, recovered to 251 for 9. Trevor Vince made a career best 91 at the top of the order, with Percy Sadler (100), including ten sixes, hitting a century from the middle order. Sadler then took 5 for 32, and with Dabby Hempstead 3-21, Boxted were bowled out for 95.
In 1981, Mersea were bowled out for 57 by West Bergholt at The Glebe, of which Dabby Hempstead 20 and Percy Sadler scored the majority of the runs. Incredibly the 57 was enough as Sadler took 9 for 24 to see Bergholt bowled out for 51, and a Mersea victory by 6 runs.
In 2009, Alex Young took 6 for 20 as Great Bromley were bowled out for 147. Mersea made light of the total racing to victory by 8 wickets in 17.1 overs. Adam Rutter (60) and Stuart Mills (61) putting on 102 for the first wicket in 13 overs !
In 2010, Young was at it again at home to Witham in NECL D1. He scored 111 before being run out (the weight issue was beginning to take effect) out of Mersea’s 223 all out. Luke Conway and Darren Rumble with three wickets a piece then helped to restrict Witham to 216 for 9, and a Mersea victory by 7 runs
1st June
In 1969, Mersea beat Tolleshunt D’Arcy by 9 runs after scoring just 50. The D’Arcy nemesis was once again Michael Laver who returned 6 for 10.
In 1985, a home friendly with Cavaliers saw Mersea prevail by 146 runs. Derek Wheat (50) promoted to opener scored his maiden fifty for the club, while Trevor Vince chipped in with an unbeaten 81 as Mersea posted 214-7. Rob Haward returned career best figures of 7 for 32 as Cavaliers were dismissed for 68.
In 1997, the 2s beat Copford 2s by one run after posting 216 for 5. A sixth wicket stand of 118no between Kevin Mays (82no) and Trevor Vince (40no) getting Mersea up to their total.
Finally, in 2003 in D2, it was Stuart Mills 88no who dominated the Mersea innings of 200 for 9, at Great Bentley. An economical spell with the ball (2 for 19 from 10) capped a fine all round performance, as Bentley were restricted to 161 for 7.
2nd June
In 1984, Mersea entertained Tollesbury in D1, and bowled the visitors out for 90. Tollesbury seeking revenge on Mersea from the famous last encounter the previous September, had Mersea at 11 for 5, and 43 for 7. Michael Laver (26) then joined Kevin Hewes (22no) in an 8th wicket stand of 45, to help see Mersea to a two wicket success.
On the same day a drawn friendly at Great Cornard, saw Graham Pryke (90) and Michael Harvey (48) score the bulk of the runs as a Mersea posted 183 for 7. In reply, Cornard were 138-7.
In 1996, Kevin Mays (101) and Mel Hughes (44) shared a 2nd wicket stand of 114 against Ardleigh in D3, as Mersea posted a competitive 234-7. However, it was not enough as Ardleigh cruised to a six wicket success.
In 2012, a friendly side defeated Kelvedon by two wickets chasing 161. Adam Passfield (69) scored his first and only fifty to date.
A year later and in the 1st Round of the NECL Cup, Eight Ash Green were put to the sword, as Mersea racked up 366 for 6. The top seven all reached 25, with David Taylor (89) and Chris Storrar (64 from 27 balls) top scoring. In reply the Green were bowled out for 103, with Darren Rumble (4-31) to see Mersea win by 263 runs.
3rd June
In 1979, Mersea defeated Woods by 20 runs in D1. Richard Argent (56) and Mel Hughes (28) put in batting performances at the top of the order, and a late cameo from David Green (43no) saw Mersea up to 154 for 7. In reply Woods were bowled out for 134, with Trevor Vince (5-19) the significant wicket taker.
In 2006, Darren Rumble (5-33) had West Bergholt on the ropes in D1, at 37 for 5. They recovered to 180, but Mersea won by 4 wickets, all the top five scoring 20 or more, and Daniel Harness (49) and Luke Conway (39) the most.
In 2007, a cup trip to Great Horkesley saw Alex Young perform with both bat and ball. Horkesley batted first and were bowled out for 105, with Young taking 5 for 30. He then dominated the reply with an unbeaten 75, as Mersea lost five wickets in getting to the target.
In 2017, the TC 2s beat Witham 3s by 8 wickets. Chasing 163 for the win, Rory Green
(45) and Ian Young (62no) put on a match winning 2nd wkt stand of 105.
A few debuts on this day, in 1967 Michael Laver opened his account at Birch, scoring 8 and showing early promise with the ball by taking 4-29, in a 28 run defeat. In 1984, Terry Gander debuted against Clacton Ramblers, and in 1989 Ashley ‘Nobby’ Gayton did so against Kirby.
4th June
In 1960, a 3rd wkt stand of 124 between Des Carter (64) and Winston Cock (60) saw Mersea up to their total of 166 for 6 against Wivenhoe. Alan Dawson (5 for 37) then helped his side to bowl Wivenhoe out for 142, and victory by 24 runs.
In 1983, Mersea overwhelmed Chappel & Wakes Colne in D2. Batting first Mersea made 172 for 8, with Mel Hughes (47) and David Fahie (31) top scoring. The visitors were skittled for 59, with Dabby Hempstead (5-13) and Derek Wheat (3-16) in the wickets.
In 2006, Cup action saw Mersea dispatch Little Baddow by 125 runs. Alex Young (100no) top scored, as Mersea posted 239 for 8. Luke Conway (5-35) then helped dismiss Baddow for 114.
In 2011, Conway impressed with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 118 in a five wicket victory at home to Elveden, including a 5th wkt stand of 134 with Michael Laver (32). James Tilsley
(5-46) had earlier helped restrict the visitors to 193 for 9.
In 2016, on the second pitch the 2s posted 194 for 1 against Boxted. Angus Lockhart and Peter Phillips (32) put on 143 for the 1st wicket, with Lockhart carrying his bat for a career best 122no. Mersea won by 51 runs, with the always entertaining Michael Snow returning a career best 6 for 38.
5th June
In 1977, Mersea defeated Lexden in D1 of the NECL by 5 wickets. Michael Laver claimed 4 for 59, as Lexden were bowled out for 138, he then shared a fifth wicket stand of 69 with Mick Sutton (76), ending the match unbeaten on 26.
In 1993, a rare victory at the time for the 1st XI over Earls Colne in D1, winning by 21 runs, after posting 212 for 4. Lloyd Rayner (85no) and Stuart Mills (79) sharing a third wicket stand of 128.
On the same day the 3rd XI were beating Birch 2nds by 99 runs. Jack Rumble (63) and Tom Golding (34) scored well at the top of the order, and a cameo 37 from Darren Rumble
saw Mersea up to their total of 179. Scot Farthing (4-23) and Darren Rumble (3-11) saw that Birch got nowhere near the target.
Perhaps the most entertaining game was in 2011, when in the 1st Rnd of the Cup Mersea managed to hold on and win by 14 runs against Great Horkesley. Entertaining ? Mersea 388 for 9, Luke Conway (119no - his 2nd century of that weekend), Adam Rutter (110) and Luke Bruce (54), a team innings that included 43 fours and 15 sixes. In reply, Horkesley went very close reaching 374 for 5, which included 44 fours and 5 sixes. So on the day, the much maligned Mersea wicket produced 762 runs for 14 wickets, 87 fours and 20 sixes...I think the punters went home happy ! #musthavebeenaroad
6th June
In 1992 at Copford, Mersea got out of trouble from 42 for 4, largely through the efforts of Stuart Mills (74) and Dale Wright (50) to post 177 for 7. Mills then took a wicket (1 for 2),but the real man of the match that afternoon was Derek Wheat, who returned a Mersea NECL best of 9 for 20, as Copford collapsed to 71 all out.
In 1999, a weakened 1st XI travelled to Kirby, and after winning the toss elected to bat with the view of saving an afternoon chasing leather around the ground. Unfortunately, Daniel Harness (81) and Kevin Hewes (53) put on 148 for the 1st wicket, and Mersea posted a respectable 206 for 6. Kirby won by 3 wickets, with two overs to spare.
In 2010, a Cup encounter with Cavaliers saw Mersea win by 35 runs in a 35 over per side game. Mersea batted first and largely due to the efforts of Adam Rutter (77) and Chris Storrar (70 from 30 balls), and a 5th wicket stand between the pair, of 75 in four overs, Mersea reached 236 for 7. In reply, Cavaliers reached 201 for 4.
In 2015, Darren Rumble claimed bowling figures of 6 for 18, as Ipswich 3rds rolled over in TCD6 for 31. Chris Graham (16no) opening the batting top scored as Mersea won by 8 wickets to go top of the division.
7th June
In 1986, Mersea won a thrilling friendly against Wickham Bishops. Michael Laver
scored 56 in Mersea's 155 for 7, he then took 4 for 42, and with Stud Hempstead 4-53 off 18 overs !!! (lucky to get a couple out of him in one spell now), Mersea won by 2 runs.
In 1987, a friendly against Royal London saw Mersea win by 6 wickets. David Green took 6 for 30, and then an unbeaten 60 from Martin Game saw Mersea home.
On the same day the 2s suffered a one wicket defeat at the hands of Earls Colne 2s. Bob Judd (36) and Andy Harvey (32) top scored in the Mersea total of 119, and despite Stud Hempstead (4-32) and Andy Harvey (2-6) - what was he bowling for ?? , Colne managed to edge the match with three balls to spare.
In 1992, the 3s beat St Osyth 2s in D5 by 23 runs. Roy Jones (43) top scored in the Mersea effort of 169, while Jack Rumble claimed 6 for 28 as Osyth were dismissed for 146.
In 2009 a rapid finish to a Cup 1st Round match with West Bergholt. Luke Bruce (4 for 5) and Luke Conway (3 for 9) helped dismiss Bergholt for 71. Adam Rutter (42no) and Conway (31no) then saw Mersea to a 10 wicket victory in just six overs !!
Debuts on this day, in 1970 Peter Sales against Boxted, and in 1975 Richard Argent made his first appearance against Birch, and more recently Anthony Hark against Frinton 3rd in 2014.
8th June
In 1957, John Frost took 8 for 42 as Tolleshunt D'Arcy were bowled out for 79. In reply, Mersea edged to a one wicket victory.
In 1986, Andy Harvey scored his maiden century for the club, with an unbeaten 110 in what can only be described as a bore draw against Marks Tey...Mersea scored 214 for 3, Marks Tey were 101 for 3 in reply.
In 1991, in D1, Mersea slumped to 10 for 3 against Copford, before Mel Hughes (57) and Stud Hempstead (58) put on a 4th wicket stand of 108. Mersea reached 187 all out, and then restricted Copford to 148 for 7, and victory by 39 runs.
In 1996, Abberton were shot out at The Glebe for 64, with Phil Hammond taking striking figures of 6 for 9. Mersea went on to win by 9 wickets.
In 2003, the 2s defeated Eight Ash Green 2s by 27 runs, having been precariously placed at 43 for 5. Mel Hughes (60no) and David Taylor put on a then record sixth wicket stand of 179 to get Mersea up to 226 for 6. Unfortunately for Taylor he missed out on a ton being run out for 99 !
9th June
In 1951, Mersea beat Kelvedon by 6 runs at Kelvedon. Lou Green was joint top scorer with 12 in the Mersea innings of 44, he then returned figures of 6 for 3 as Kelvedon were dismissed for 38.
In 1996, the 2s beat Kirby by 10 runs after posting 136 for 7. David Maiden returned economical figures of 3 for 8 from 9, but the match winner was Andy Wargent, who took 5 for 34 from his ten overs.
In 2001, Alex Young became the youngest player to score a league fifty at 14yrs 281 days, when recording an unbeaten 52 in a 9 wicket defeat at Great Bromley. Mersea were languishing at 72 for 7, when Young was joined by Dabby Hempstead (37) and the pair put on 69. Mersea eventually closed at 171 for 8.
In 2012, Adam Rutter scored 102 in a 6 wicket victory over Tendring in TCD6, chasing 187. James Tilsley (47) had shared a first wicket stand of 150 to make the win a formality.
In 2013, another centurion was Ian Young (100no) at home to Great Braxted & Tiptree. However, Mersea's 210 for 7 was not enough as the visitors cruised to an eight wicket success.
In 2018, Roger Goodwin the man who does not wear batting gloves, made his debut against Kelvedon 3rds.
10th June
In 1962, a home friendly saw Mersea beat Halstead by 3 runs. Winston Cock (36) and Sid Vince (31) top scored in the Mersea effort of 110, while Basil Cock and Bruce Cock claimed three wickets each in the Halstead response.
In the 1984, the 2s beat their Boxted counterparts by 85 runs. Mick Seeley scored 56, and shared a 4th wicket stand of 68 with Michael Harvey (28), who then starred with the ball taking 5 for 11.
In 1990, Chris Hempstead (55no) top scored in 8 run victory in D1 at Wivenhoe, sharing an unbroken 7th wicket stand of 65 with Kevin Hewes (29no).
In 2007, Mersea lost a bad tempered thriller at home to Galleywood, by one run.
In 2012, also in D1, Mersea beat Maldon by 5 wickets, chasing 152 to victory. Stuart Mills (61) top scored at the top of the order, and enjoyed a 5th wicket stand of 58 with James Rutter (28no). Rutter and Luke Conway (27no) then steered Mersea to victory with an unbroken 6th wicket stand of 33.
11th June
In 1972, Michael Laver was in the wickets against Clacton Ramblers, taking 7 for 21 as they were bowled out for 82. Mersea going on to win by 4 wickets.
In 1977, Mick Sutton (103) and Mel Hughes (85no) shared a second wicket stand of 148, as Mersea piled up 217 for 4, against Kirby, going on to win by 142 runs.
In 1988, another one of those economic spells for Kevin Hewes 10-9-4-5, just one long hop going to the boundary, as Boxted were bowled out for 67. Mersea cruised to an eight wicket success.
In 1994, Hewes did it with the bat, joining Matt White’s 106 club, with an unbeaten century against Tattingstone. However, Mersea's 221 for 2 was not enough, as Tattingstone won by 4 wickets.
In 2006 the 2s beat Abberton 2s by 5 wickets. Chasing 139 for a win, Michael Laver (40) and Neil Goodridge (36) put on 81 for the 1st wicket, before a collapse saw Mersea slip to 93 for 5. Steve Sheldrick (32no) guided the Islanders home.
The most recent game on this date, in 2016, saw Mersea defeat Melton St Audry by 8 wickets. Chasing 110, Adam Rutter (62no) lead the successful run chase.
12th June
In 1971, Michael Laver was taking his 5th five wicket haul of that season, with a performance of 8 for 31 in a 66 run victory over Kirby.
In 1977, Mick Deane hit a career best 88 in a 125 run victory over Clacton Ramblers - John Pope taking 4 for 9 in the Ramblers reply.
In 2010, the Two Counties side won their first match of that season, at the fifth attempt. Chasing Braintree 3rd's 178 for 6, they were indebted to James Rutter (50) getting them a long way to the target, in a four wicket victory.
In 2011, there was double success over Cavaliers in the NECL. IN D1 at the Rugby Club, there were three fifties in the Mersea total of 237 for 7. Adam Rutter (62), Luke Bruce (51) and Richard Fuller (74no). The only other person in double figures was Darren Rumble (17no) in an unbroken 8th wicket stand of 97 with Fuller. In reply Cavaliers reached 117 for 4 from their 35 overs, to see Mersea victors by 120 runs
In D4, the 2s beat their Cavaliers counterparts by a narrower 30 run margin, Graham Bowers (107) hitting a career best in the Mersea total of 189 for 5. He then took 3 for 22 from 9, and with Trevor Vince 4-37 the visitors were restricted to 159 for 9.
13th June
In 1982, the 2s recorded their first ever win in the NECL, in the Reserve League they beat Lexden 2s by 70 runs. Roy Hammick (75) and John Pope (67no) set up the Mersea innings of 201 for 3.
In 1992, a home victory over Tattingstone in D1 by 77 runs. A solid all round batting performance, with Stuart Mills (51) top scoring got Mersea to 211 for 7. All the bowlers took wickets in the reply, with Mills claiming an economic 1 for 15 from 10.
In 1993, in D4, Stephen Daniels claimed 5 for 14 as Clacton were shot out for just 52. Mersea made heavy weather of the run chase reaching the target for the loss of 6 wickets.
In 2010, in NECL D1 Mersea raced to a 4 wicket victory over Eight Ash Green. The Green were bowled out for 174, with Alex Young (4 for 37). Mersea then took just 22 overs !! to win the game. James Tilsley (43) and Luke Conway (42 off 15 balls, including 5 sixes) top scoring.
In 1981, Michael Harvey made his debut for Mersea at home to Harwich & Dovercourt.
14th June
In 1980, an inter club match saw the Under 30's soundly trounced by the Over 30's. Dabby Hempstead 39no and 2 for 4 from 7, Michael Laver 3 for 9, and Trevor Vince 3 for 24 saw the Overs to 54 run victory.
In 2008, Luke Conway hit 136 against Great Horkesley for the 2s, as Mersea piled up 271 for 7, in a 128 run victory.
In 2009, both the 1s and 2s won in the NECL. The 1s were bowled out for 268 at Eight Ash Green, but won by 219 runs as the Green were bowled out for 49, Alex Young (6 for 15) and Darren Rumble (4 for 23) sharing the wickets.
At The Glebe, the 2s were given the runaround in field as Little Clacton posted 227 for 2, but with a solid all round batting performance, of which Graham Bowers (46) top scored, they won by 2 wickets with three overs to spare.
15th June
In 1974 Martin Cock scored his highest ever score for Mersea, 79 in a 150 run win over Kelvedon.
In 1985, Hec Hewes, the deadly leg spinner, took 5 for 18, as Mersea beat COLCO by 61 runs.
A year later, in 1986, Reserve League leaders Elmstead 2s entertained Mersea. Mersea batted first and were bowled out for 92, with Bob Judd (26) and Mark Mahon (24) scoring over half the runs. However, the leaders were to be humbled by Richard Bond, who claimed 6 for 15 as Elmstead crashed to 81 all out, and defeat by 11 runs.
In 2003, the 2s beat Abberton 2s by 42 runs at The Glebe. Steve Sheldrick (59) and Mark Mahon (42) enjoyed a second wicket stand of 113, as Mersea posted 191. Luke Conway
(4-42) and Mike Srinivasan (3-25) saw the visitors bowled out for 149.
In 2008, Mersea defeated Copford by 84 runs in NECL D1, Ian Young (59no) top scoring in the Mersea score of 236 for 5.
16th June
In 1973, John Pope returned figures of 9 for 36 as Mersea bowled Kelvedon out for 76. Mersea won by 2 wickets, after being 31 for 8 ! Peter Sales 33no and David Green 19no seeing Mersea home.
In 1984, the 2s won a Reserve League match with Eight Ash Green 2s by 10 runs. Roy Hammick (43) and Bob Judd (38) top scored in the Mersea total of 169. Derek Wheat (3-22) and two wickets a piece for Kevin Hewes, Eddie Gamble and John Pope gave Mersea the win.
In 2012, Mersea put out three sides, the TC side were bowled out for 129 at Brantham. But Luke Conway (7 for 15) ensured a 29 run victory.
Elsewhere in Friendlies away to Rayne, Rosie Daines and Connor Green made their debut, while at home to Chappel & Wakes Colne there were debuts for Jason Hoggarth and Harry Luckman.
In 2013, Mersea defeated Springfield on NECL D1 by 165 runs. Adam Rutter (101) and Stuart Mills (56) put on 111 for the first wicket. With antipodean Jon O’Regan (47) putting some late runs on the board, Mersea reached 316. Chris Storrar then took 5 for 24 in the visitors reply.
17th June
In 1957, Mersea defeated Marks Tey by 92 runs, Basil Cock scored 84 in the Mersea total of 162-9, before Sid Vince (7-27) ripped through the Marks Tey batting.
In 1989, the 2s defeated Earls Colne 2s by 9 wickets. Chasing 143 for victory, Trevor Vince (70no) and Ian Young (59no) put on an unbroken second wicket stand of 142.
In 1990, the 2s defeated Grasshoppers 2s by 81 runs at The Glebe. Jonathan Webb (59) top scored in the Mersea total of 148-8, before David Maiden (5-15) and Phil Hammond (3-8) saw the Hoppers bowled out for 67.
In 2006, there was a century for David Taylor (105) in a six wicket victory, in a friendly against Real Oddies.
Debut on this day in 1967 for Mick Seeley against Kirby.
18th June
In 1983, in Div 2 of the NECL, Mersea suffered their only defeat of the campaign. After slipping to 28 for 5 at Eight Ash Green, Kevin Hewes (36) and Michael Laver (21) got them up to 113. Despite Percy Sadler's economic spell (2 for 7 from 10) and Derek Wheat (2 for 15 from 10) the Green got home by 4 wickets.
1989 saw Mersea prevail by 11 runs over Braintree Crittals in D1. Michael Laver (66) and Kevin Hewes (40no) got Mersea up to 200 for 9, before Stuart Mills (5 for 29) bowled the decisive spell as Crittals were bowled out for 189.
In 1995, the 3rd XI were beaten by 9 wickets in D6 of the NECL, by Little Bardfield Village. Scot Farthing (6) top scored in the Mersea effort of 23 !!, and then took the solitary wicket.
2006 saw the 1st XI defeat Copford at Copford by 67 runs. A solid all round batting performance, with Daniel Harness (43), Luke Conway (43), Ian Young (40) and Chris Storrar (27 off 16) got Mersea up to 242 all out. The hosts reached 106 for 1, before Alex Young (5 for 29) intervened, and Copford were eventually dismissed for 175.
19th June
Soon to be Grandad, Russ Wilkin enjoys this day, in 1994 he took a career best 7 for 38 as Mersea defeated Severalls by 38 runs. In 1999, he took 5 for 15 and Stud Hempstead (4-10) as Langham were skittled for 28 in a 130 run victory in D2.
In 2005, the 1s were destroying Eight Ash Green again, Adam Rutter (93), Stuart Mills (57) and Ian Young (43) contributing to the Mersea effort of 284 for 8. The Green were bowled out for 87, and defeat by 197 runs. Darren Rumble (4-47) and Dabby Hempstead (3-16) doing the bulk of the wicket taking.
Also in 2005, the 2s successfully chased down Abberton 2s 237 for 8. David Taylor (83) and Luke Conway (61) sharing a 3rd wicket stand of 108, as Mersea eventually won by 5 wickets. The game also marked Student Boy, Tom Sanderson debut.
A tighter match in 2010, saw the 2s narrowly defeat Great Horkesley, defending 149 at The Glebe, Mike Srinivasan (5-50) saw the visitors come up 3 run short.
20th June
In 1965, local bobby Tony Butcher did the double of fifty and five wickets in the same game, 64no & 5 for 7 v Dedham. Dabby Hempstead also went nap with 5-15, as Dedham were bowled out for 37, Mersea winning by 154 runs.
In 1987, ten man Mersea chased down Copford's 165 for 6 at The Glebe in D1, to win by 5 wickets. Michael Laver (51) top scored at the top of the order, but it was an unbroken stand of 63 between Bob Judd (22no) and Martin Cock (49no) that saw Mersea to victory.
In 2010, in D1, Mersea chased down Little Bardfield Village 225 for 5, to win by 3 wickets.
Luke Conway smashing 84 from 50 balls as Mersea recovered from 64 for 5, to win with almost four overs in hand.
In 2015, Chris Rayner (102) scored his maiden century for the club, in an abandoned match against Sudbury 3rd.
21st June
In 1986, there was a NECL league double over Copford. At home the 1s won by 32 runs, after compiling 201 for 8. Neil Goodridge (62) and Mick Seeley (40) top scoring for Mersea. Michael Laver (4-47), Dabby Hempstead (3-20) and Michael Harvey (2-21) shared the wickets. At Copford the 2s won by 21 runs, Trevor Vince (55) and Bob Judd (46) top scoring in the Mersea effort of 174 for 8. Stuart Hempstead (3-34) was the pick of the bowlers in the reply.
In 1992, the 3s defeated Tiptree United by 93 runs. Skipper Rob Cornish (53) top scored, but the real match winner was Dick Baron, who backed up up his batting exploits of 31no, with a bowling performance of 7 for 18.
In 2003, in D2 Mersea beat Little Clacton by 16 runs in a close match at The Glebe. Ian Young (76) in the Mersea effort of 224 for 5, while son Alex Young (5-49) did the main work with the ball.
In 2014, David Taylor (124), Luke Bruce (52) and Adam Rutter (50) got Mersea up to 327 for 6 in the Two Counties. Mersea won by 201 runs.
In 1981, Chris Hempstead made his debut for the club in a friendly at Wormingford.
22nd June
In 1985, victory in D1 of the NECL over Copford, was orchestrated by the bowling exploits of Michael Harvey (5-19) and Richard Bond (4-18) as Mersea bowled Copford out for 73 and a win by 63 runs.
In 1996, a dramatic conclusion to an eventful sporting afternoon. Batting first against Colneside, Mersea could only muster 123 for 7 from their 40 overs. The longest ever tea break then took in the entire England v Spain Euro 96 QF, which was decided on penalties. Colneside appeared to cruising to victory, requiring two runs with 5 wickets in hand, however, Trevor Allen bowled an inspired spell of 5 for 1, on his way to match figures of 5 for 22, as Mersea claimed a famous one run victory.
In 2003, in D2 the 1s defeated Chappel & Wakes Colne by 109 runs. Alex Young (69no) top scored in the Mersea total of 214 for 5, but it was the inspired bowling of his father Ian Young (4 for 20) which eventually saw Mersea to the win.
In 2008, there was a high scoring game at Great Bromley which Mersea eventually won by 29 runs. Luke Conway (78), David Taylor (69) and Tom Sanderson (46no) got Mersea up to their total of 290 for 7. Bromley pushed all the way, reaching 261 for 8, with Conway (4-43) the pick of the bowlers.
Debuts on this day, in 1963 Martin Cock played his first game against Dedham, while in 2014, Chris Rayner debuted against Chappel & Wakes Colne.
23rd June
In 1951, Brian Dobson took 6 for 14 as Mersea bowled NALGO out for 21, and victory by 73 runs.
Dabby Hempstead enjoyed this day, in 1974 he took 6 for 76 as Mersea were defeated by Wormingford by 70 runs. Five years later in 1979, he took 6 for 37 as Mersea defeated Birch by 11 runs. Trevor Vince (76) top scoring for Mersea on that day.
The highest score made on this day, is 81 by Michael Laver in 1990, however, despite posting 200 for 6, Mersea were defeated by seven wickets at home to Colneside in NECL D1.
More recently, in 2012, James Rutter (56) top scored as Mersea defeated Brantham by 43 runs in the Two Counties. Cameron Williams (3 for 7) and Adam Rutter (3 for 26) impressing with the ball.
In 2013, Trent Pollard (53) scored his maiden fifty for the club in a six wicket victory over Witham.
24th June
In 1979, a close fought match with Wormingford ended in a two wicket defeat. Richard Argent, a career best, (75) top scored for Mersea, and Michael Laver took 6 for 45.
In 1989, Stud Hempstead (58no) guided Mersea to a two wicket victory over Copford in D1, chasing 163 for victory.
In 2000, Graham Pryke (50) and Kevin Hewes (54) put on a 1st wicket stand of 106 (without running each other out), as 2s chased down Eastcliff's 161 to win by 5 wickets.
In 2017, a rare victory for the TC 2nd XI, at home to Maldon 4th. Ian Young (49) top scored for Mersea in their 179 all out, before Amit Tiwari and Steve Smith, claimed three wickets each to help bowl Maldon out for 90.
Debuts on this day, for Stephen Rumble (1990) against Chelmsford Nomads, and in 2001 a fresh faced 14yo with hair, Matt White, at High Easter.
25th June
In 1983, there were fifties for Mick Seeley (51) and Trevor Vince (50) as Mersea posted 141 for 3 in a friendly against COLCO. Mersea were unable to force the win as COLCO reached 132 for 9, with Andrew Game (4-8) the pick of the bowlers.
In 1989, there was a win for the 2s by 95 runs over their Cressing counterparts. Bob Judd (75no) and Ian Young (69no) sharing an unbroken 4th wicket stand of 144. Scot Farthing (5 for 31) the performed with the ball.
In 1995, Mersea defeated West Bergholt in D1 by 40 runs. Stuart Mills (53) top scored as Mersea posted 164. Bergholt were dismissed for 124, with Phil Hammond (4 for 29) the main wicket taker.
In 2005, the 2s beat Lexden by 2 wickets. Luke Bruce (5 for 29) helped restrict Lexden to 160, before Luke Conway (46) and Adam Rutter (45) scored well at the top or the order. However, it took an unbroken 9th wicket stand of 24 between the finishers Mel Hughes and Trevor Vince to see Mersea home.
Debuts on this day, in 1966 against Tolleshunt D'Arcy Keith Salter, and in 2011 against Rayleigh, Ben Clarke.
26th June
1954 saw Sid Vince claim figures of 7 for 21 against Kingsford, as Mersea went on to win by 5 wickets.
In 1988, in the 1st round of the NECL Cup competition, Mersea beat Earls Colne by 17 runs, the Mersea score of 179 for 7, being built around a 5th wicket stand of 114, between Michael Laver (65) and Stud Hempstead (51) coming together at 28 for 4.
In 1999, Stud Hempstead again figured top scoring with 81no (what a talent he was) as Mersea posted 224 for 4, as they thrashed Kelvedon by 146 runs in D2.
In 2005, in D1, Mersea went to St Osyth and won by 105 runs after posting 260 all out. Kevin Hewes (54) top scored as six Mersea batsmen topped 25. Jamie Phillips then picked up 6 for 37, as Osyth were bowled out for 155.
Debuts on this day, saw Eddie Gamble in 1983 against Royal London, and in 1993 Mersea's favourite carrot top (as he was then) Daniel Harness against Eight Ash Green 3rd.
27th June
In 1959, Basil Cock achieved the double of a fifty and fivefor in the same game, with 57 and 5 for 25 in a 10 run victory over Dedham.
In 1971, Michael Laver notched up his seventh five wicket haul of the season, as Weeley were bowled out for 58, chasing Mersea's 79. Mersea had been 33 for 8, before Bruce Cock (20) and John Pope (28no) got them up to the score. Laver then claimed 7 for 27.
In 1982, David Fahie scored his only century for the club, an unbeaten 110 in a friendly win over Kirby, Mersea won by 50 runs.
In 2004, an ugly looking friendly ended in an abandoned draw, with Tollesbury. Mersea posted 310 for 6, with Alex Young (126no) scoring his maiden century, and sharing a 4th wicket stand of 142 with Luke Conway (81no). In reply, Tollesbury were 59 for 8, when the heavens opened.
In 2015, the TC 1s beat Worlington 2s by 73 runs, Adam Rutter (64) top scored for Mersea, while Cam Williams (5 for 26) claimed his only fivefor to date.
In 1999, David Taylor made his debut in a 2nd XI league match at Tendring.
28th June
In 1952, Brian Dobson returned the third best club bowling figures, with 9 for 16, as Mersea or more rightly Dobson, bowled REME out for 47, to win by 3 runs !!
In 1959, Lou Green took 8 for 22, as Mersea beat NALGO by 33 runs.
Michael Harvey enjoyed this day with the bat, in 1986 he scored an unbeaten 63 in a drawn friendly with Eight Ash Green, while a year later he scored an unbeaten 60 in a 25 run win over Birch.
In 1992, Michael Laver scored his only century an unbeaten 110 as Mersea posted 255 for 1 in a 55 run win over Wivenhoe in D1. He shared an opening stand of 150, with Paul Sorrell (74), and an unbroken 2nd wicket stand of 105 with Mel Hughes (43no).
in 2009, the 1s beat Galleywood by 74 runs after posting 295 for 7. Luke Conway (94) just missing out on a century.
29th June
A double win in the NECL in 2003, the 1s beat Kelvedon by 10 runs at The Glebe, Brain Coleman (45) and Kevin Hewes (44) top scoring in Mersea's 189 for 8. Kelvedon were then restricted to 179 for 5, Hewes' ten overs going for just 10 runs. At Marks Tey, the 2s were bowled out for 112, with Graham Pryke (30) top scoring. In reply, Tey were bowled out for 66, with Jerome Leonard (5-19) the pick of the bowlers.
In 2008, the 2s beat league leaders Little Bardfield Village by 3 wickets. LBV were bowled out in 39 overs for 126, with Trevor Vince (4-40) the most successful of the bowlers. In reply, a rapid half century from Chris Storrar (50) saw Mersea edge to the win.
In 2013, the TC 1s pulled off a memorable 68 run victory over Mildenhall 4ths. Angus Lockhart (101no) and Rory Green (59) shared an opening stand of 159 as Mersea posted 268 for 2. George Shephard (4-59), Lockhart (3-40) and Callum Drage (2-55) then bowled out Mildenhall for 200.
In 2019, chasing 249 at Long Melford 2nds, the 1s won by 5 wickets with almost five overs to spare ! David Taylor (87), Luke Conway (66) and Graham Bowers (61) all posting half centuries in the run chase.
In 1985, Scot Farthing made his debut for the club against Cressing.
30th June
Former player George Watson enjoyed this day, in 1979 he took 7 for 25 in a 22 run friendly victory over NALGO. In 1984, he took another fivefor claiming 5 for 23 in a drawn friendly with Elmstead.
In 1990, Mel Hughes scored an unbeaten 64, and Michael Laver (46) as Mersea chased 160 at Eight Ash Green and won by 5 wickets in D1.
In 1996, the 2s defeated Tendring Park by 146 runs, Stuart Hempstead (63) top scoring, and sharing a 4th wicket stand of 105 with John Webb (46). Mel Hughes also scored 47, as Mersea posted 262 for 7.
In 2002, a low scoring league match in D2, saw the 1s prevail by 26 runs, after being dismissed for just 119 by Great Bentley, with Stuart Mills (41) top scoring. Alex Young
(5 for 22) and Luke Bruce (3 for 30) took the bulk of the wickets.
In 1984, a debut for the club for Stuart Hempstead, ironically, he had to leave the island, so a rare trip. Cressing was the destination, and a defeat by 15 runs, with Stud scoring 1no.
1st July
In 1961, a remarkable home game against Chappel & Wakes Colne, saw Mersea bowled out for 32, but go on to win by 9 runs. Jack Wells returning match winning figures of 7 for 11. In 1967, an unbeaten 97 from Ian MacDonald guided Mersea to a one wicket success at NALGO, chasing 147
In 1995, Kevin Hewes (73) top scored as Mersea posted 208 for 5 in NECL D1. Dabby Hempstead (4-21) was the most successful of the Mersea bowlers as Mersea won by 85 runs.
In 2006, James Tilsley (82) and Neil Goodridge (54) put on an opening stand of 140 as the 2s score 241 for 5 against Chappel & Wakes Colne 2s. Mersea going on to win by 56 runs. Debuts on this day, Bruce Cock in 1951 at Lexden, and in 1978 brothers Andrew and Martin Game started their careers against NALGO.
2nd July
In 1972, a rare success on the bowling front for Mel Hughes (6 for 14) against Dog & Pheasant (pub team) in a 61 run victory for cricket club.
In 1988, it was a D1 success at The Glebe over neighbours Abberton, batting first Andy Harvey (53) and Paul Sorrell (44) got Mersea up to their total of 179 for 7. A decisive four over bowling spell by Stuart Mills (5 for 9), then saw Mersea bowl out the Lions for 144.
A year later in 1989, it was 1st Round Cup success at home to Great Cornard. Mersea batted first and scored 205 for 5, with half centuries for Paul Sorrell (57) and Mel Hughes (56no), before skittling Cornard for 58.
In 2006, it was more NECL Cup success in the 2nd Round at Clacton Ramblers. Luke Conway smashing an unbeaten 111 from 58 balls, including nine sixes, and enjoying an unbroken 5th wicket stand of 160 with Ian Young (53no). The pair blasted 93 from the last 8 overs as Mersea reached 292 for 4, and went onto win by 123 runs.
Debut in 2005 for Gregor Irvine in a friendly against Belhus.
3rd July
In 1982, a D1 victory at The Brow, as Mersea defeated Abberton by 31 runs. Trevor Vince (57) top scored for Mersea in their 145 for 7. Abberton were bowled out for 114, with Derek Wheat (3 for 25), Dabby Hempstead (2 for 11 from 10) and Richard Bond & David Green, 2 wickets each sharing the wickets.
In 1983, the D2 championship team were nearly derailed at Little Clacton. Having bowled Little Clacton out for 147, Mersea were in trouble at 45 for 6. Martin Cock (30) lifted the score to 81 for 7, before an unbroken 67 run partnership for the 8th wicket between Kevin Hewes (35no) and Michael Laver (38no) saw Mersea to a 3 wicket success.
In 1993, Mark Mahon (75) top scored in the 2s, 200 for 9 against Halstead Fenns. Mersea winning by 34 runs, as Phil Hammond (4 for 28) was the most successful bowler.
In 1994, Paul Sorrell (131no) scored a career best, as Mersea posted 222 for 1 against Taverners. He shared a second wicket stand of 127, with Ian MacDonald (43no) as Mersea won by 44 runs.
In 2010, James Tilsley (77) top scored in a Two Counties victory over Easton 2s. Mersea posted 207 for 9, before bowling Easton out for 158 - Luke Bruce (4 for 66) in the wickets.
In 2011, there was Cup success in the 2nd Round at Cavaliers. Mersea bowled Cavaliers out for 128, with Matt Wilkin (5 for 21) leading the attack. Mersea went on to win by 6 wickets.
4th July
In 1953, Mersea beat St Osyth in a friendly at The Glebe by 8 wickets. Osyth were bowled out for 15 !, with Sid Vince taking 6 for 7 from his six overs.
In 1971, Michael Laver was still taking five wicket hauls, todays one came at Wickham Bishops where he took 5 for 35 in a 17 run win. Earlier Winston Cock (48no) and Peter Sales (28) had top scored in the Mersea effort of 136 for 8.
In 1998, Mersea beat Bures in D1 at The Glebe by 8 wickets. Stuart Mills returning figures of 5 for 11 from his nine overs, as Bures were bowled out for 131.
In 2009, the Two Counties side entertained St Margarets 2s, and despite posting over 200 for the second time against them in the season (see 2nd May), were defeated this time by 8 wickets. Michael Laver (88) top scored in the Mersea score of 238 for 9.
A run fest at The Glebe in 2010 in the 3rd Rnd of the Cup. Purleigh were the visitors, and batting first Mersea piled up 424 for 6. Adam Rutter (183) broke the club record, while their were half centuries for Luke Conway (60), Alex Young (56) and Stuart Mills (51). In reply Purleigh reached 248 all out. I also recovered an anecdotal email (Must have kept it for Golden Balls purposes – regarding one piece of Mersea fielding)….Off Matt Wilkin’s bowling, their number 10 hits the ball in the air, as Batty runs around at Mid-Off…the ball flying through the air, he sets himself and decided to clap his hands three times before the ball gets to him…only to find the ball sailing over his head and get a hand to it and drops the ball, as all 21 players and supporters sing out in a chorus of W**ker !! He then drop the same bloke again 2 balls later, off of Matt Wilkin !!
5th July
Keith Salter enjoyed this day against the same opponents ! In 1968 he took 5 for 11 as Mersea beat Paxmans by 61 runs, a year later he was at it again with 7 for 35 as Paxmans were bowled out for 85 and defeat by 25 runs.
Also in 1969, the 1s were involved in a tied match at NALGO. NALGO scored 156 for 9, with Michael Laver (6-43), however, despite Ian MacDonald (86), Mersea were unable to force the win. A last wicket partnership of 11 drawing the scores level, before David Green was run out.
In 1987, Mersea were heading towards a Plate Final, and in the 1st Round came up against Tendring Park. Tendring batted first and made 186 for 4. A second wicket stand of 100 between Andy Harvey (46) and Paul Sorrell (53) got Mersea a long way towards the target...Harvey being run out with a 50 beckoning. Brother Michael Harvey (43) and Mel Hughes (30no) then saw Mersea to a 5 wicket success.
The most recent success on this day, was in 2008, when the 2s beat Real Oddies by 54 runs, Mersea scoring 200 for 9 with James Tilsley (48) top scoring.
6th July
Dabby Hempstead has good memories of this day, in 1974 he claimed 6 for 30 in a 23 run win against Eight Ash Green, while in 1975 he took 7 for 18 against McKenna & Co (Solicitors, Boat makers...who knows ?), despite his bowling figures it a was the company team who won by 9 runs.
In 1985, Mersea defeated Kelvedon in D1 at Kelvedon by 5 runs. Struggling at 78 for 6, Richard Bond (34) and Michael Harvey (38no) got Mersea up to 144 for 7. Tight bowling from Dabby Hempstead (1 for 19 off 10), Percy Sadler (1 for 19 off 9) and Harvey (1 for 22 off 10) saw Mersea restrict Kelvedon to 139 for 7.
A 'dig in' performance in 2003, from Kevin Hewes, who carried his bat and gritted out an unbeaten 40 from 119 balls in Mersea total of 142 for 9, on a sticky Glebe wicket, against Birch. Stuart Hempstead (4 for 35) and Hewes (3 for 12) then saw Mersea to a 22 run victory.
In 2008, a Cup match at Gosfield, saw Mersea 30 for 4, and Stuart Mills hospitalised. The umpires decided the wicket was dangerous, and abandoned the match. In the resulting bowl off, Mersea won 3-2 to progress to the next round.
In 2013, Eight Ash Green inflicted the highest ever score on a Mersea side, when posting 460 for 7 against the 2s. To add insult to injury (literally as three Mersea players were injured !!) they bowled Mersea out for 74 to record the biggest ever defeat of 386 runs.
Better fortunes for the 1s, on that day as they beat Felixstowe 2s by 41 runs. Adam Rutter (67) and Stuart Mills (41) sharing an opening stand of 110 in Mersea score of 205. Darren Rumble (4 for 50) was the pick of the Mersea bowlers in the reply.
7th July
In 1973, Dabby Hempstead became the second Mersea bowler to claim 10 wickets in a match, when returning 10 for 34 in a 47 run victory over Eight Ash Green. For good measure, he also top scored for Mersea with 26. (Scorecard attached)
In 1985, Mersea beat Abberton at The Glebe by 8 runs in D1. Batting first Mersea posted 140 for 4, with Michael Harvey (50no) top scoring. In reply, Abberton were bowled out for 132, with Paul Sorrell (3-11) impressing with the ball.
In 2001, Mersea scored a then record highest score at Cressing, Ian Young (119) and Stuart Mills (83) sharing a club record 3rd wicket stand of 208, as Mersea posted 315 for 5 in a 149 run victory.
In 2002, Daniel Harness went Eight Ash Green battering, as he equalled the 2nd XI highest score with 144 against EAG 2s. He shared a 2nd wicket stand of 191 with Ian Young (91) as Mersea scored 296 for 4, and won by 100 runs.
In 2013, there was a much closer affair between the 2s and Boxted 2s. Ten man Mersea, were indebted to skipper Neil Goodridge (93) for the bulk of their 191 for 5, they then managed to restrict Boxted 2s to 188 for 4, and victory by 3 runs.
A debut on this day for George Shephard, in 2012 against Earls Colne.
8th July
In 1978, yet another close encounter in D1 with Eight Ash Green. Mersea prevailing by 6 runs, with Mick Sutton (59) top scoring in the 149 all out. John Pope(3 for 27) was the most successful Mersea bowler as the Green were bowled for 143.
A year later and the masters of the tied match in the early days of league cricket were at it again, as Mersea tied with Colchester & E.E. Mersea scored 131 for 9, with Mick Seeley (54) top scoring, and then restricted CEE to 131 for 8, Dabby Hempstead 3-27 and Mick Laver 3-39 with 3 wickets each.
In 1990, there was success in the Plate Semi Final for the 2s at home to Great Cornard. Ian MacDonald (59no) & Dabby Hempstead (32no) putting on an unbroken 5th wkt stand of 73, after Mick Seeley had earlier scored 49, in the Mersea score of 169 for 4. Cornard were bowled out for 153, and defeat by 16 runs, with Terry Gander (4-14) and Dabby Hempstead (3-19) in the wickets.
In 2017, there was a double victory in the Two Counties. The struggling 1s beat eventual champions, Stowupland, by 10 runs. Adam Rutter (50) and an entertaining Tom Sanderson (43no) getting Mersea up to 172. Luke Conway (4-35) then impressed with the ball.
Meanwhile at Maldon Prom, the 2s were achieving a 4 wicket win over Maldon 4ths. Allan Highfield (6 for 37) was the outstanding bowler for Mersea as Maldon posted 144 for 8, before Ian Young (63no) guided Mersea from 9 for 2, to 147 for 6.
Finally, congratulations to Reg 'The Analyst' Sheldrick, who becomes youngest member of the Mersea Over 50s squad, having recorded a half century today.
9th July
In 1961, Mersea defeated Halstead by 4 wickets chasing 179-8. Basil Cock (58) and Winston Cock (45) putting on 110 for the first wicket.
In 1988, LouiseIan Young (101no) hit the first of his eight career centuries in a drawn match with Chappel & Wakes Colne.
In 1994, that wasted talent, Stuart Thomas Hempstead hit a career best 155no against Tendring Park in a 139 run victory in D1 for the 1st XI. At the time it was a club record, it now stands as the seventh highest score.
Meanwhile at Halstead Fenns, Bob Judd (95no) was also compiling a career best in a 167 run victory. Plenty of juddering on that afternoon.
In 2006, the 1st XI beat Colchester & E.E. by 7 wickets. Alex Young (5-29) was the strike bowler as CEE were bowled out for 120, before showboater Stuart Mills (74no) dominated the reply.
In 2016, Mersea defeated Felixstowe Corinthians by 48 runs after being restricted to 158 for 9. Matt Wilkin (5-33) doing the damage in the reply
10th July
In 1954, Mersea bt Kelvedon 2nd's by 10 wickets, chasing just 17 for victory ! Ted Mills had returned exceptional bowling figures of 8 for 6.
In the 2nd Round of the 1988 NECL Cup, Mersea defeated Great Bentley at The Glebe, by 39 runs, Stud Hempstead (28) top scored in the Mersea innings of 147 all out. Kevin Hewes (2 for 18 from 10), Martin Game (2 for 23 from 10) bowled tightly early on, before Dabby Hempstead (4 for 36) saw Mersea to victory.
In 1994, there was heart break for Graham Brown for the 3s against Abberton 3s. Brown was left high and dry on 99, as Mersea were bowled out for 203. To make matters worse, Abberton strolled to an eight wicket success.
In 2010, a comfortable seven wicket victory for the TC side over Coggeshall 3rds, Coggeshall were bowled out for 106, with Luke Conway taking 6 for 29. Matt White (53) then top scored in the run chase.
11th July
In 1953, Phillip Elias took 7 for 11 as Great Bentley were bowled out for 57, and defeat by 71 runs.
In 1981, Mersea defeated Copford by 14 runs in D1. Martin Cock top scored with 30, and also took 3 outfield catches, while Percy Sadler (3-23) and Richard Bond (3-36) were the main wicket takers.
In 1984, the first day of the second Mersea tour, saw the tourists win by 16 runs at Stonegate, after being bowled out for 103. Dabby Hempstead (4 for 18) and MIchjael Harvey (3 for 16) proving decisive with the ball.
In 2004, a sublime century from Matt Golding (105 off of 50 balls, including 14 fours and five sixes) saw Mersea post 270 for 6 in a 90 run victory over Abberton. Ian Young (56) was involved in a third wicket stand of 113, while 75 runs came from the last five overs as Alex Young (29 from 18) joined in the fun
In 2015, an excellent run chase at Nowton saw the TC 1st XI win by 5 wickets, chasing 250 for 5. Adam Rutter (100), Luke Conway (51) and David Taylor (48) all made significant contributions in the Mersea innings.
12th July
In 1980, Mersea defeated high flying Copford by 8 wickets at The Glebe, after routing them for just 33. George Watson (3 for 8), Derek Wheat (3-12) and Percy Sadler (2-8) causing the damage.
In 1984, the second match of the second tour at Horley ended in an abandonment with Mersea 43 without loss, not much about the cricket, but I do believe it was where RRG commented on the opposition getting a bit arsey about payment of the teas !
In 1986, the 2s bt Wivenhoe 2s by 8 runs in the Reserve League, after being bowled out for 150. Richard Bond (5 for 37) causing Wivenhoe to come up short.
In 2009, an historical day as Mersea posted their record total, posting 486 for 8, against the nine men, a boy and a dog of Ardleigh in D1. Daniel Harness (167) and Alex Young (130) shared a record 2nd wkt stand of 239, as Mersea ran out winners by 338 runs.
In 2014, another high scoring game at the Glebe saw Mersea 1s prevail by 17 runs over Long Melford 2s. David Taylor (70), Chris Storrar (42 off 19 balls) and Matt Wilkin (46 off 33 balls) seeing Mersea up to their total of 241.
In 1969, John Pope made his club debut in a game against Anchor Press.
13th July
In 1952, Sid Vince's 7 for 35 saw Mersea to a 14 run win over St Osyth, after posting 95.
In 1983, sixteen tourists set off on the very first Mersea cricket tour to Somerset. Four days of baking hot weather, good cricket and plenty of japery, started off with a six wicket defeat at the hands of Long Sutton. Mick Laver (37no) top scored in the Mersea effort of 143.
In 1984, the third match of the second tour took Mersea to Northend and Felbridge. A disappointing game ended in a 10 wicket defeat. Although highlight of the day saw Andy Harvey (28) top score in Mersea total of 140...he will tell you it was worth 50, as he had to see off Sussex fast right arm seamer, Andy Babington (no never heard him !)..apparently he got Mike Gatting out the week before in Benson & Hedges game. No he was pretty sharp ! The reply saw Harvey fielding in two different counties, Surrey and Sussex, as he traipsed from long off to long on. While the reply was dominated by opener Connelly, who was unfortunately (although pre-planned by the Mersea skipper Mick Laver) high and dry on 99 not out. The skipper lifting his foot and allowing a push back to run into Surrey or Sussex for four for the winning runs.
In 1996, Mersea entertained Eight Ash Green in D1, and after conceding 220 runs, were in trouble at 13 for 2. Stuart Hempstead (44) helped the recovery, but when another clatter of wickets fell, Mersea were 125 for 6. Kevin Hewes (103no) and Phil Hammond (36no) then put on a stand of 99 to see Mersea to a four wicket success.
In 2008, a close fought victory over neighbours Abberton in D1, with Mersea prevailing by 2 wickets. Chris Storrar hitting a rapid unbeaten 27 from 20 balls to see Mersea past their target of 161.
In 2013, there were wins for both the TC1 and TC2, over Coggeshall 3rd & 4th respectively. James Rutter (51) top scored for the 1s in a 92 run victory after posting 261 for 7.
While the 2s chased down Coggeshall's 152 to win by 3 wickets. Angus Lockhart (74) and Tony Bailey - a career best 32no seeing Mersea to victory.
14th July
In 1967, a horror story after Tolleshunt D'Arcy post 184, Mersea lose by 176 runs being bowled out for 8 ! Winston Cock top scored with 3, in an innings that contained no less than 8 ducks.
Dear old David Green enjoyed this day, particularly on tour. In 1983 on the first tour of Somerset he scored an unbeaten 56, while Bob Judd had earlier scored 55. However, our secret weapon that day was giving Mere, our scorer Chris Hewes as their eleventh player. And so was born the phrase, 'Chrissy Hewes is under it.....and he's dropped it' followed by hysterical laughter. To say the ball followed him was an understatement, as it must happened three times at least !
In 1984, on the last day of the second tour, David Green scored an unbeaten 58 in a Drawn match with Scaynes Hill. Peter Sales also had a successful afternoon with the gloves taking four catches.
In 1990, a drawn match at Wivenhoe 3rds, saw Terry Gander (76no) and Tom Wilcox (53), a maiden fifty, put on 152 for the first wicket.
In 1991, the 2s beat Lexden 3s by 139 runs. Ian Young (74no) top scoring for Mersea in their 182 for 5, before Dabby Hempstead 6-19 ripped through Lexden who were dismissed for 43.
In 2018, a TC double over Maldon 3s and 4s. The 1sts won by 3 wickets chasing 194, with Ali Manhire (66) and Steve Smith (40no) scoring well.
The 2s had Maldon 4s at 3 for 5, with Roger Goodwin (3 for 8) causing early damage. Maldon recovered to 127 for 9, which Mersea knocked off for the loss of six wickets. Graham Pryke (30), Daniel Youngman, on debut (27) and Elliot Drage (23no) all puting in crucial knocks. And Middlesex infiltrator Rob Miller also debuted in the same game.
15th July
In 1983, it was the third day of the tour, and a picturesque ground in the sticks to play Lydford. Michael Laver won the toss again (he was to win all four tosses on this innaugral tour) and Mersea batted, and the immortal 'can corner' was created. As a party of tourists enjoyed spectating from the far corner, with cans filled with stones to celebrate boundaries. Andy Harvey, coming into the game on a particularly poor run, scored a fluent 49, including 10 fours, while Mel Hughes was unbeaten on 69 in the Mersea total of 201 for 5. In reply Lydford were bowled out for 195 to leave Mersea victors by 6 runs. Returning to the Dolphin Hotel it was a night of surprise for Graham Woods...lured into the courtyard by the younger members of the touring party, who were conveniently sat under a large golfing umbrella, he suddenly found himself soaked through as a large amount of water cascaded from above, Dabby Hempstead the culprit. Unfortunately, Woody's revenge later that night went horribly wrong, as poor David Green found himself soaked in his own bed...Woody having got the room numbers wrong for Dabby ! Oh what japery !
In 1990, Mersea lost a friendly at Coggeshall 2nds by 49 runs, despite Martin Game claiming 7 for 36, and Ian Young an unbeaten 50.
In 1995, Mersea were victors at Eight Ash Green, chasing down 207 to win by 3 wickets. Stuart Thomas Hempstead scoring an unbeaten 80 in the run chase.
In 2007, a return match against Galleywood in D1, after some shenanigans in the first game of the season in June. Mersea redressed the balance with a three wicket victory. Luke Bruce had taken 5 for 36, to bowl Galleywood out for 151. Alex Young (46) top scored in the reply.
And in 2017, probably one of the strangest defeats for Mersea, chasing 118 scored by 10 man Kelvedon 3rds, and given an extra two overs to get to the target, Mersea ended up 117 for 9, and defeat by one run ! Graham Pryke (12no) and Tony Bailey (1no) opting for their average, rather than team success ????????
Debuts on this day, in 1989 against Weldon, Tom Wilcox, while in the ill fated game with Kelvedon 3rds in 2017 there was debut for Jerry Morgan
16th July
In 1955, Basil Cock claimed a double of a fifty and fivefor in the same game, when scoring 50no and then taking 8 for 35 as Mersea beat Earls Colne by 23 runs.
In 1983, the final day of the first ever tour, saw the tourists defeated by 5 wickets by Wincanton, led by a talisman by the name of B Hansford (88no). Bob Judd (54no) and Dabby Hempstead (40) top scored for Mersea.
On the same day back in Essex, a friendly side were beating Dedham by 103 runs. Mick Sutton (110) and Ian Young (75no) sharing a third wicket stand of 192, before Derek Wheat (6 for 25) saw Mersea to victory.
In 1986, the opening match of the tour of Gloucester, saw Mersea defeat Gaurdian Royal Exchange by 6 wickets. Spin twins Hec Hewes (4 for 16) and David Green (3 for 28) had seen the home side bowled out for 102. Dabby Hempstead (33no) and Andy Harvey (22no) guided Mersea to a comfortable victory.
In 1989, in a friendly Mersea were bowled out for 76 by Royal London. Terry Gander (7 for 23) nearly helped Mersea claim an unlikely win, with the insurance side eventually winning by one wicket.
Poor weather had blighted the 1993, 10th anniversary tour, with the opening games against Long Sutton and Brompton Ralph cancelled....we did travel to Brompton Ralph, where a senior tourist did leave his mark on a length ! Anyway, on the 16th, the side played an evening game against Long Sutton, losing by 3 wickets after being being bowled out for 97. Stuart Hempstead took 4 for 18 in the Long Sutton reply but was unable to stave off defeat.
In 2005, father and son, Ian (100no) and Alex Young (55no) combined to put on an unbroken fifth wicket stand of 117, as Mersea scored 219 for 4 at West Bergholt. Unfortunately, it was not enough as Bergholt won by 4 wickets.
In 2006, the 2s chased down Lexden's 233 for 6 at The Glebe, to win by 4 wickets. Jon O'Regan (69) and Graham Pryke (50) had put on a third wicket stand of 66, before the former was run out (now I wander who's fault that might have been !) Simon Lambert (36) then ensured a victory for the 2s.
17th July
Two five wicket performances on this day against Wivenhoe, with different results. In 1965, Jim West took 7 for 15 as Mersea won by 43 runs, while in 1971, Trevor Greenleaf took 5 for 53 as Mersea were beaten by 104 runs.
In 1986, Mersea got the second win of the Gloucester tour, with a 7 wicket victory over Somerset & Avon Police. Chasing 202, Michael Laver (76no), Trevor Vince (42no) and John Keating (41) led Mersea to the win.
In 1993, a first ever tour century as Matt Golding (108no) and Graham Pryke (57no) put on 126 for the 5th wicket to take Mersea to 272 for 4, in a 96 run win over Exford.
In 1994, Stud Hempstead (96) just missed out on a well deserved century, but led Mersea to a 3 wicket win over Maldon in D1, chasing 177 for the win.
In 2010, there was a career best 6 for 33 for Martin Humphreys in a 58 run defeat for the Two Counties side at the hands of Sudbourne Hall.
18th July
In 1959, Basil Cock took match winning figures of 9 for 27 as Great Bromley were bowled out for 53, leaving Mersea victors by 19 runs !
In 1965, Des Carter starred with both bat and ball in a 150 run win against Dedham. Unfortunate, bot to register a ton (98) in the Mersea total of 187-5, he then took 5 for 16 as Dedham were bowled out for 37.
In 1986, the third match of the Gloucester tour ended in the closest ever result. Mersea beating Cinderford St John by one run. Michael Laver (50) scored his second fifty of that tour.
In 1992, the 2s beat Mile End by 50 runs. Mel Hughes (89no) and Stuart Mills (51) both recording fifties in the Mersea total of 227 for 7.
In 1998, a D1 victory by 67 runs over Chappel & Wakes Colne, was inspired by a match winning bowling spell from Russ Wilkin (6 for 21) as Chappel slumped to 91 all out.
In 1999, Mark Mahon carried his bat for an unbeaten 61 in the Mersea total of 92 against Tendring Park, who went on to win by 10 wickets. The game also marked a debut for Adam Rutter.
In 2010, Luke Bruce (90) was the match winner in a D1 game with Chappel. Mersea posting 193 for 8, and going on to win by 22 runs. Bruce being the most successful bowler also, with 3 for 39.
Finally, in 2015, half centuries for Adam Rutter (69) and Luke Bruce (51no) guided the TC firsts to an eight wicket win over Eight Ash Green.
19th July
In 1986, Mersea made it a clean sweep of victories on the Gloucester tour, with a six wicket victory against Lydney 3rd. Michael Harvey (4-28) and Michael Laver (3-26) saw the hosts dismissed for 102. Father and son Hector and Kevin Hewes opened the batting (the only time as far as I can remember), with the elder out lasting the younger in a partnership of 7! RIchard Russell-Grant (38*) equalled his career best as Mersea eased to victory.
In 1992, a low scoring match saw the 3s prevail by 19 runs against Birch 2nd. Mersea were 58 for 7, before David Green (28) added some much needed runs to get them to 115. Iain Farries then claimed a career best 7 for 13, as Birch were bowled out for 96.
In 1996, the first day of the tour to God's Country...'Orkshire' , saw the tourists defeated by 28 runs, chasing 255 at Nawton Grange. Michael Laver (47) top scored in a Mersea innings in which ten of the eleven players reached double figures....the 11th was Stuart Thomas Hempstead who was out for a duck ! ...probably wasted.
In 1997, another low scoring close encounter in D1, saw Mersea beat Little Clacton by 10 runs. Stuart Thomas Hempstead (37), top scored at the top of the order, before Mersea slipped to 39 for 6. Tom Golding (24) and Mark Mahon (12*) scored some valuable runs to get Mersea to 115. Matt Golding (4-15) was the outstanding bowler as Little Clacton were bowled out for 105.
In 2015, the 2s won a D4 game at Kirby by 9 runs. Luke Conway (58) was dropped first ball, and with Jason Hoggarth (42) got Mersea up to 193 for 9. Mersea were able to restrict Kirby to 184-6 in reply.
20th July
In 1956, Mersea bowled out Tolleshunt D'Arcy for 87, however, they came up a bit short losing by 74 runs as they were dismissed for 13 !
In 1996, the touring party of 'Orkshire', played in spectacular surroundings under the derelict abbey of Rievaulx...however, the scene was probably better than the pitch ! Mersea batted first and made 216 for 8, with Graham Pryke (48) and Stuart Hempstead (47no) top scoring. Mersea then bowled out Rievaulx for 111, for a 105 run victory. I believe this was the evening Phil Hammond took on the famed 'pickled egg' !
In 2012, the first day of a Bournemouth tour, saw Mersea pull off an unlikely 2 wicket win over Ferndown Wayfarers. The Wayfarers had scored 203, and had Mersea 97 for 7. Luke Bruce (36) appeared to stave off the inevitable, but when he was dismissed it left Ricky Provan and Matt Wilkin at the crease, whilst in the hutch last man Dan James Lambert (seemingly a little worse for wear, was itching to go out and hit the ball over the Electricity Pylon which had been his fielding position all day. 65 runs were required in ten overs, incredibly Matt scored 30no and Ricky a career best 39 in a ninth wicket stand of 67, whilst Dan was left dreaming of what could have been !
In 2014, the annual Rain Men fixture, saw a maiden fifty for Jason Hoggarth (57) as Mersea chased 150, to win by 3 wickets.
A year ago in 2019, a double for the TC sides, the first XI were indebted to guest debutant Thomas Fulk, who scored 81 & took 6-25 to become the most recent member of the Fifty & Fivefor club, in a 77 run win over Bardwell. You are welcome back at any time !
While on the second pitch, chasing 106 against Kelvedon 3rd, Mersea raced to an eight wicket success. Debutant Wayne Smith hitting 35 from 12 balls, including five sixes to make victory a formality.
Other debutants in 1985, saw Shaun Mills and Matt Newton play in an abandoned game against Lexden. Mersea only made 84, and Lexden were closing in on victory at 65 for 1.
21st July
In 1984, Mersea won a close low scoring encounter at home to Birch. Mersea were bowled out for 97, with left handers Paul Sorrell (22) and Michael Harvey (19) top scoring. They then both figured with the ball, Sorrell taking 3 for 11, while Harvey took 3-28 as Birch were bowled out for 87.
In 1990, a tied D1 match at Braintree Crittals. Mersea made 203 for 8, with Paul Sorrell (69) and Terry Gander (43) contributing the most. In reply, despite Stuart Mills (4 for 47), Crittals got the equation down to three runs required with two wickets in hand in the last over. Martin Game, claimed a wicket with the first ball and then the last two batsmen could only muster two runs.
In 1996, a case of a long night before, for the last game of the 'Orkshire tour. Mersea trounced by 9 wickets by Malton & Old Malton.
In 2001, Mersea won a D2 match against Clacton Ramblers by 9 wickets, Stuart Mills (56*) and Ian Young (51*) sharing an unbroken 2nd wicket stand of 89.
In 2012, day 2 of a Bournemouth tour, saw the tourists lose by one wicket to Sturminster Marshall. James Tilsley (55) had top scored in the Mersea effort of 174-9. In reply, Sturminster were 66 for 6, as Darren Rumble (4 for 6) - claimed the first ever tour hat trick and Tom Sanderson (3 for 23), before W Gage (97no) guided the hosts to a narrow success.
In 2013, in D1 Mersea beat Halstead by 61 runs. David Taylor (62) and James Tilsley (52) sharing a third wicket stand of 100 in the Mersea total of 261. Luke Conway (4 for 42) and by a quirk of fate Darren Rumble (3 for 37 - including a hat trick...see 2012) saw Halstead bowled out for 200.
In 2019, Ben Rumble was claiming the accolades with a career best 6 for 57 in an 18 run win over the Rain Men.
22nd July
In 1967, Lou Green took 8 for 35 as Wivenhoe 2nd were bowled out for 115. However, it was in a losing cause as Wivenhoe won by 35 runs.
In 1990, in D1 Mersea defeated Eight Ash Green by 35 runs. Paul Sorrell 59 and Stuart Hempstead 51, both hitting fifties in Mersea total of 184 for 9.
In 2000, Stuart Hempstead, returned his best ever bowling figures for the club with 7 for 17, including a hat trick, as the 2s beat Wormingford by 60 runs. Ian Young (69) had earlier top scored for Mersea.
In 2001, Kevin Hewes produced his best bowling figures for the club. After top scoring with 48 in the Mersea total of 167 for 8 against Kelvedon, he was introduced into the attack with the visitors 56 without loss. He then, took 7 for 3, including four wickets in four balls as Kelvedon crashed to 66 all out.
In 2012, the last game of the Bournemouth tour saw a 4 wicket defeat to Lytchett. From tour briefings it seems the highlight, apart from a Luke Conway fifty (52), was Matt White pulling off his nominated shot "trapping the rat" to the bemusement of the fielding side , while Digs Taylor failed in his attempt at a tip and run...hitting the ball back to the bowler and being run out for a golden duck !
In 2017, Mersea won a TC D6 match with Long Melford 2nd at The Glebe. David Taylor (83) top scored in the Mersea score of 164 for 8, from 35 overs, before Steve Smith (5 for 26) saw the visitors bowled out for 107.
Debutant, 70 years ago in 1950 at 14 years old, Hector Hewes, against Dedham.
23rd July
In 1961, Mersea posted a then club record 273 for 9 in a 159 run victory over Great Braxted. Basil Cock (85) and Winston Cock (67) put on 172 for the first wicket (still the 5th highest opening stand for the club), while Sid Vince weighed in with an unbeaten 50.
In 1983, Mersea defeated Woods by 23 runs after scoring 124 for 7. The architect of the Woods collapse was Eddie Gamble, who returned figures of 8 for 22.
In 2000, the 1s were involved in another tied league match in the NECL. After being bowled out for 156, with Ian Young 46 top scoring in the game at Colneside, they then managed to restrict the home side to 156 for 6 in reply.
In 2016, the TC 1s won a nervy encounter with St Osyth in D6. After bowling the Osyth out for 86, with Luke Conway (4 for 6) and debutant Haseeb Talib (3 for 22) in the wickets. Mersea made hard work of the reply, eventually winning by 2 wickets, with Chris Graham (21) making a career best.
In 2017, a drawn match in the annual fixture with Rain Men, saw Rory Green post a maiden century with an unbeaten 100. A game that also saw Mersea's oldest debutant Geoff Carpenter.
Other debuts on this day, in 2005 against East Hanningfield Croc Bruton, in 2011 at home to Chelmsford Tom Daines, and on the same day away to Nowton, Max Khan
24th July
In 1954, Bruce Cock returned 6 for 8, as Coggeshall 2nd were bowled out for 23, and a Mersea win by 125 runs.
In 1977, debutant Kevin Hewes could only watch in awe as he saw a new cricketing legend first hand, Dabby Hempstead who returned 8 for 19 as Boxted were bowled out for 74. Hewes (2no) was there at the end as Mersea won by 3 wickets.
In 1982, the saga of the 1st XI opener selection continued ! With no league game, there was a friendly against Mersea FC. The football club scored 170 for 9, and the captain of the cricket club must have been strict orders to open with Andy Harvey and David Fahie. Harvey was bowled by a footballer for 0, while Fahie was once again an unfortunate victim of a run out for 13. Who knows where the selection committee will go with this one now. The footballers won by 44 runs, and that was closer than it should have been due to a last wicket stand of 48, between Michael Harvey and Andrew Golding.
In 1998, the first tour of the Bournemouth area, saw Mersea lose the opening match to Branksome by 3 wickets. Matt Newton (45) top scored in Mersea's 159.
In 2011, the 1s run up 299 for 7 against Little Baddow in NECL D1. James Tilsley (108) scored a career best, while David Taylor (55) and Chris Storrar (52 from 28 balls) also posted fifties. Mersea went onto to win by 86 runs.
In 2016, Ben Rumble made his debut for the club in a drawn friendly with Rain Men
25th July
In 1981, Mersea defeated Wormingford in a friendly by 25 runs, after being bowled out for 86. Martin Game (5 for 5) bowled an impressive spell to turn the game in Mersea's favour.
In 1993, the 2s defeated Clacton at The Glebe by 96 runs. Jonathan Webb (59) top scored for Mersea, before Tom Golding (5 for 10) and Diddly Dave Maiden (3 for 14 from 10) saw Clacton dismissed for 94.
In 1998, a tour victory on the first Bournemouth visit, with a 102 run win over Micklemersh, John Webb (48), Mel Hughes (45no) and Matt Newton (42no) all scoring well in the Mersea total of 228 for 8.
In 1999, a win for the 1s in D2 of the NECL over Kelvedon by 86 runs. Mersea had made a disappointing 157 for 9, with Mel Hughes (23) top scoring. In reply, Dabby Hempstead returned 5 for 15 from his 10 overs as Kelvedon were bowled out for 71.
In 2008, it was day 1 of the Worcester tour, and a trip to Temple Grafton. The drunken tourists batted first and slumped to 23 for 4, before a chanceless 86 from Matt Golding, and support from Stuart Mills (28), Graham Pryke (25) and Alex Yoiung (24) got them up to the heady heights of 234. Unfortunately, the liquid lunch and the heat took its effect in the field, as Temple Grafton raced to an 8 wicket win in 28 overs.
In 2010, an innings full of promise was unable to get the 2s out of a mess at Earls Colne and Bures. Mersea had slumped to 30 for 7, when James Rutter arrived at the crease. He went onto to make a run a ball 75, including 13 fours, as Mersea recovered to 135 all out. Despite Trevor Vince (5 for 53) taking 5 wickets, the home side won by 4 wickets.
On the same day, at The Glebe, Rory Green was making his debut, in the familiar blooding ground of a friendly with Rain Men.
In 2014, it was the first day of the Nottingham tour, and a thrashing at Colston Bassett. The home side batted first and made 239 for 7, with David Taylor (3 for 23) the most successful bowler, while Jon O'Regan claimed three catches. O'Regan (33) then top scored in the dismal reply of 94 as Colston Bassett won by 145 runs.
26th July
In 1987, there was success in the Plate Semi Final at Shalford. Mersea winning by 63 runs after posting 152 for 7. Richard Bond (3 for 7 from 10) impressed with the ball, while the game will also be remembered for an outrageous diving boundary catch by an athletic Michael Harvey.
In 1992, Richard Bond scored an unbeaten 106, in what was his last game for the club in a 5 wicket friendly victory over Grasshoppers. Jack Rumble had earlier taken 5 for 16.
Plenty of tour action on this day,
In 1998, chasing 246 at Bryanstone, Mersea came up short losing by 4 runs, a ninth wicket stand of 50 not between Michael Laver (34no) and Mel Hughes (18no) almost getting them across the line, after Matt Golding (66) had earlier top scored.
In 2002, the first day of the tour, saw Mersea defeated by 6 wickets by Broadstone. Matt Golding (44) top scored in the Mersea effort of 197, but with opener Broom scoring an unbeaten 111 the hosts cruised to a comfortable victory. The game also saw Martin Judkins and Fred Crouch make their Mersea debuts.
In 2008, a rare tour victory in recent years at Coombes Wood as Mersea won by 25 runs. A full onfield mobbing of a fifty maker by the Mersea tourists was witnessed, as Andy Wargent (53) hit his maiden fifty.
And in 2014, it was an eight wicket defeat on the second day of the Nottingham tour, this time to Old Dalby. Daniel Lambert was given the honour of captaining as it was his 100th appearance for the club, and did at least go on to claim both wickets to fall. Luke Conway (53) posted a half century, while Jon O'Regan picked 'ducking the ball' as his first ball when batting. He managed to duck the ball perfectly to avoid a fine, but unfortunately the ball was pitched up and smacked into the middle stump...meaning that he was fined anyway for scoring a duck...a golden one at that ! Such are the vagaries of touring. There was also a football match after the game, that was a little more competitive .
27th July
In 1958, Mersea bowled out Great Braxted for 22, with Sid Vince returning 7 for 7. Mersea going on to win by 6 wickets.
In 1980, Mel Hughes scored an unbeaten 51 in a six wicket victory over Dedham, chasing 81 to win in D1. The performance went on to be awarded as Performance of the Season. To put it in context, Dedham were riding high in D1, and Mersea were fighting relegation. Dedham also had a lively opening bowler by the name of 'Friend', who in previous years had demolished Mersea.
2000, saw the opening day of the the only overseas tour, as the tourists travelled to Holland. The match against VOC was abandoned due to rain, with Mersea staring at another tour defeat. The game also saw a debut for Graham Bowers. The day will probably be remembered for the pre-match football match, that resulted in Mel Hughes obtaining the infamous aubergine bruise !
In 2002, a tour victory at Martinstown by 25 runs. Michael Laver (50) and Graham Bowers (58) both scoring half centuries in the Mersea total of 218 for 7.
2003 saw a D2 success against Kirby. Alex Young (5 for 21) ripped through the Kirby top order, with Mersea going on to win by 7 wickets. James Tilsley made his debut in the game.
In 2008, despite an unbeaten 101 from Adam Rutter and Matt Golding (54), getting Mersea to 258-7, they were beaten by 7 wickets by Norton Lindsey & Wolverton. Opener I Morgan scoring an unbeaten 203 for the host.
Another tour century in 2014 was again in a losing cause. Luke Bruce (103*) and Ollie White (41) top scored in the Mersea total of 212 for 7 against Mansfield Police. However, the Police completed a Nottingham whitewash on the tour, with a comfortable 8 wicket win.
28th July
In 1951, Mersea bt Kingsford by one wicket, chasing 107. Brian Dobson (9-42) had put the hard yards in, dismissing Kingsford.
In 1968, Michael Laver took 6 for 18 as Boxted were bowled out for 34, and a Mersea win by 60 runs.
In 1973, a case of history repeating itself, as Michael Laver took 6 for 8 to dismiss Wormingford for 14 ! Mersea winning that game by 70 runs.
In 2000, on day 2 of the Dutch tour, it was a 7 wicket thrashing at the hands of CC Groenendaal. Mersea struggling to get to 126.
In 2002, a much better tour performance at Lytchett Manor, where Daniel Harness (108), and Matt Golding - professional tourist (56) top scored in Mersea's 285 for 8. Mersea going onto win by 183 runs, with the little known bowling skills of Jonathan Webb (2-0) on a hat trick for the next game.
In 2006, Mersea recovered from 34 for 4 to score 286 in a tour match at Speldhurst. Alex Young (97), Graham Pryke (39) and Jon O'Regan (35) all contributing down the order. It was not enough though to deny the hosts a 3 wicket win.
In 2012, a maiden century for James Wargent (110no) recovered the TC side from 120 for 7 to 217 for 9 at Witham. However, Witham eased to a four wicket success with three overs in hand.
29th July
In 1950, in what was his first recorded appearance for Mersea the prolific Brian Dobson took 8 for 15 in a 5 run defeat to Kelvedon.
1981 was a Wednesday, and the Charles - Diana Royal Wedding Day...eleven players escaped the pomp and ceremony on our TV screens for a midweek friendly game in deepest Suffolk, against Wetherden...probably now a bog standard TC venue ! At the time it was miles away, and probably a pre-empt to the first tour in 1983. Mick Seeley (38) and John Woods (25no) top scored, but Wetherden eased to a 6 wicket success.
In 1989, a friendly against Copford saw Mersea post 245 for 4, with Stuart Thomas Hempstead (75), Chris Hempstead (65) and Stuart Mills (57no) all showing blossoming potential with the bat. In reply Copford were 203 for 5, for a Drawn match.
In 1995, an unbeaten 85 from Stephen Rumble saw the 3s to a 4 wicket success against Paxmans 2nd in D6.
2000 saw a victory on the Dutch tour, as the tourists beat Haagse, an under 17 dutch side by 29 runs. Daniel Harness top scored with 29, but certainly had willies put up him by the fast bowling of brothers Mark and Maurice Jankman. So much so, that he relayed to the rest of the team that the 13 year old and 15 year old were twins ! Stress does a funny thing !
In 2006, Luke Conway (62 off 28 balls) top scored for Mersea in their total of 169 on tour against Rustington. The hosts cruised to a 4 wicket success.
In 2007, Captain Daniel Harness (66) led his D1 side to a 48 run win at home to Copford. Mersea posted 231 for 7, and with Darren Rumble (3 for 26) and Alex Young taking early wickets had the visitors on the rope at 41 for 5, from which they never recovered.
In 2016, the most recent tour began with a shambolic performance against Sandwich Town. Mersea were bowled out for 84 in 21 overs, as the morning tinnie drinking took full affect. The hosts smashed the runs required in less than ten overs, to record a nine wicket win.
30th July
In 1965, Jim West took 9 for 34 to bowl Abberton out for 95, and leave Mersea victors by 14 runs.
In 1989 the 2s posted 268 for 3 in a 187 run win over Birch 2s. Terry Gander (82) and Michael Cooper (100no) sharing a third wicket stand of 135.
In 2005, David Taylor scored the first of his five centuries to date, with an unbeaten 113 in a one wicket friendly victory over Nacton.
2004, saw the start of the third tour to Somerset, with a game against old adversaries Long Sutton. Luke Bruce (66) and an unbeaten 41 from guess who...Matt Golding got Mersea up to 192 for 9. However, the hosts had enough in the tank to win by 2 wickets.
2006 saw the Mersea tourists beat Westfield Bohemians by 13 runs, after posting 225 - with no one scoring more than 37 ! Chris Storrar (4 for 20) and Darren Rumble (3 for 43) saw Mersea to the win.
The 2010 Norfolk tour began with a six wicket defeat at the hands of Castle Rising, Alex Young (69no) top scoring from the number nine berth.
And in 2016, a much better performance on the Kent tour against Harbledown, with the tourists scoring 240, thanks largely to the efforts of Jon O'Regan (90) and Trent Pollard (63). However, like most Australians these days they were to end up on the losing side, as Harbledown won by 4 wickets. This being the Saturday of the tour, might also have been the night that a drunken Callum Drage was put on tour lockdown (a first for a drunken tourist), with heavies David Taylor and Luke Conway guarding his door !
31st July
In 1988, Chris Hempstead (107no) scored his only century in a five wicket win over the Presidents XI.
In 1993, it was a one in a generation game, as Mersea 3s bt Paxmans 2s by 75 runs in D6. Mersea batted first and at 33 for 8 were seemingly facing an early finish. A ninth wicket stand of 60, between Graham Pryke and John Everett just seemed to delay the inevitable. However, an unbroken club record stand of 145 for the 10th wicket between Pryke and Nick Mussett took Mersea to an incredible 238 for 9. Graham ending his innings on a career best unbeaten 153, while Mussett was 22no. Tom Golding then took 6 for 37, as the bewildered Paxmans team were bowled out for 163.
The 2004 cricket tour took in the dramatic Valley of the Rocks with a game against Lynton and Lynmouth. Chasing the hosts 266 for 6, Mersea were well placed after Matt Golding (103no) and Mel Hughes had put on a club record 114 for the 7th wicket. With Golding in full flow, and 50 runs required from 7 overs, the game was tragically halted as news came from the pavilion that Fred Crouch had been taken ill. Sadly it was to become one of the clubs darkest days, as Fred sadly was unable to be resuscitated. RIP Fred Crouch.
In 2005, the 2s had a tied match with St Osyth 2s. Mersea batted first and made 189 for 6, with Michael Laver (44) top scoring. In a dramatic conclusion Osyth lost three wickets in an over, and with the scores level their number 11 was run out by....Graham Pryke
In 2010, a blank day on tour was to prove an intoxicating mix for one tourist in particular. The tourists had amused themselves with beach cricket and crazy golf, and drinking beer in Yarmouth, before making the short trip back to the hotel. A trip that saw Graham Pryke become intoxicated as he over indulged in Jagermeister, and all sorts of the other big boys booze. After stumbling off the bus he was last seen performing a one man bobsleigh up the stairs, crashing from side to side, giggling like a little girl. He then spent the night acquainting himself with the toilet, while the rest of the tourists went off to a foam party in a Yarmouth nightclub...the last venue for Stuart Mills' expensive glasses !
In 2011, Mersea beat Bocking in D1 by 23 runs in a high scoring match. Alex Young (54) and Darren Rumble (49) top scoring in Mersea 258 for 8. Chris Storrar (4 for 44) was the most successful Mersea bowler as Bocking were restricted to 235 for 8.
Finally, in the tradition of marking special birthdays this year, a very happy 60th birthday to one of our favourite tea ladies LouiseIan Young.
1st August
In 1959, Sid Vince took 7 for 13 against Abberton, but still ended up on the losing side as Mersea lost by 12 runs.
In 1993, the 1s beat Colchester & E.E. at Castle Park by 6 wickets, with debuts given to Richard and Stephen Cornhill. RIchard scored an unbeaten 30.
In 2004, a subdued tour match at a ground voted as the most beautiful in Britain at the time, Bridgetown, saw Mersea post 170 and defeated by 6 wickets.
In 2009, an exciting match at West Bergholt in the Two Counties was abandoned with just 27 balls remaining and Mersea requiring 41 to chase down Bergholt's 263 for 4. Matt Golding (98no) was still at the crease, while earlier he had combined in a partnership of 162 with Luke Bruce (77).
The morning after the night before in Yarmouth, and unsurprisingly Graham Pryke was up and ready for a Full English ! A cricket match at Redgrave & Bressingham saw the tourists defeated by 6 wickets, with David Taylor (40) top scoring in the Mersea total of 150.
2nd August
In 1969, Mersea beat Wormingford in a friendly by 3 wickets, chasing just 85 to win. John Pope took 5 for 15, and then top scored in the reply with 26.
In 1987, a tied friendly was the result of a match with Royal London. The insurance side were buoyed by the bowling performance of Mersea regular Michael Harvey who took 5 for 23 as Mersea posted 105. In reply, Royal London reached 86 for 7, before an 18 run partnership took them to the brink of victory. Stud Hempstead (2 for 14) broke the partnership, and then Kevin Hewes (2 for 17) claimed the wicket of Andy Harvey, leg before to an inswinging yorker for 12. Royal London got the scores equal before Jonathan Webb initiated a dramatic run out for the tie.
In 1992, the 1s beat Colchester & E.E. by 81 runs at The Glebe. Paul Sorrell (102) and Michael Harvey (41) top scored in Mersea's 256 for 7, before David Maiden (5 for 29) claimed a fivefor in the reply.
In 2003, the 1s were chasing promotion in D2 of the NECL and beat Clacton Ramblers by 66 runs. David Taylor (56) and Mike Srinivasan (40) top scored in Mersea's 186, which seemed below par, as the Clacton Ramblers openers got the score to 96 for 0. Stuart Mills (4 for 24), Alex Young (3 for 24) and Jerome Leonard (2 for 15) then ripped through the Ramblers to see 10 wickets fall for 24 runs !
In 2008, the 1s chased down West Bergholt's 167 to win by 4 wickets inside 26 overs. Adam Rutter (41) and skipper Daniel Harness (44) making rapid knocks.
On the same day the TC side recovered from 36 for 6 against Coggeshall 3rd, with Mel Hughes (40) leading the recovery to post 122. Mersea went on to win by 22 runs, as James Rutter (3 for 20) and Neil Goodridge (3 for 35) got amongst the wickets. The game also marked Nick Gray's debut for the club.
In 2015, a tight Plate Semi Final against Abberton ended in a two run defeat. Abberton's 191, appeared to be a walk in the park as Mersea openers Adam Rutter and David Taylor put on 92 for the first wicket. However, a collapse then saw 40 required with just three wickets in hand. Chris Graham (12) and Cam Williams (20), including one huge six, almost got Mersea over the line, but they were bowled out with one ball to go.
3rd August
In 1957, Mersea beat the old enemy Abberton by 62 runs. Sid Vince (59) top scoring in the Mersea total of 106, before Alan Dawson (6 for 18) helped dismiss Abberton for 44.
In 1991, there was D1 victory over Copford by 96 runs. Stuart Thomas Hempstead (63) scored highest in the Mersea total of 209 for 8.
Hempstead was top scorer again in 1997, with 76 in the Mersea total of 204 against Colchester & E.E. He then took 3 for 39, and Darren Rumble (4 for 21) as Colchester were bowled out for 169.
In 2008, Stuart Mills (76) led the onslaught with a 32 ball fifty in the Cup Quarter final against Stebbing. Mersea posted 253 for 9 from 30 overs, with Luke Conway (45 from 16) and David Taylor (36 from 28) also entertaining. Mersea went on to win by 73 runs, as Luke Bruce took 4 for 50.
In 2013, the TC 2s beat Great Bromley 2s by 77 runs. Callum Drage scoring an unbeaten 166, including a club record 27 fours in the Mersea total of 287 for 5. He also shared a second wicket stand of 168 with Trevor Vince (38). It was all downhill from there for Callum.
In 2019, virtual cricket co-commentator, Tom Butler, made his debut in a friendly against Kelvedon.
4th August
In 1963, Mersea won a home friendly against Highgate by 5 wickets. Basil Cock top scoring with an unbeaten 97, as Mersea chased down 141.
In 1984, there was a double over Copford. The 1s won at The Glebe by 27 runs, Mel Hughes (25) and Kevin Hewes (24) top scoring in Mersea 144 for 9. Hewes suffering an unsavoury 'Mankad' dismissal. Paul Sorrell then took 6 for 20 as Copford were bowled out for 117.
The 2s won at Copford 2s by 18 runs. Bob Judd (64) and Andy Harvey (58no) - dropped again from the 1st team - put on 112 for the 3rd wicket in Mersea's 181 for 6, before Martin Game (5-34) eased Mersea to victory.
In 1996, there was another D1 win over Copford, this time by 33 runs. Kevin Hewes (71) top scored in Mersea's 183 for 8, while David Maiden (4 for 37) was the most successful with the ball.
In 2001, a side missing a number of first team regulars went to Kirby, and chased down their 200 for 8, to win by 3 wickets. Ian Young (79) and Kevin Hewes (55) put on a second wicket stand of 136, before 14 year old Alex Young (25no) and John Woods (12no) brought Mersea home.
2012 and it was Super Saturday at the London Olympics. It was also a pretty special day at The Glebe, with the first ever match on the second pitch. A successful day on and off the pitch, saw the TC side bt Coggeshall 4s by 147 runs, with Luke Conway (75) and James Wargent (56) both posting half centuries. Conway backed up his fifty with a five for, taking 5 for 24 as Coggeshall were bowled out for 98.
On the second pitch the friendly side beat Mistley by 146 runs, with Neil Goodridge (84no) and Callum Drage (53) in Mersea's 229 for 8. Thomas Wargent (4 for 31) then took a career best as Mistley were bowled out for 83. After match celebrations included Olympic success, and Andy Wargent by plenty of jugs for his sons recent cricketing successes.
In 1968, Steve D'Wit, who was on the first ever tour in 1983, made his club debut in a friendly defeat at Birch.
5th August
In 1950, Mersea 2s won an astonishing game against Turner Village. Bowled out for 29, Vic French (5 for 1) and Wally Murray (5 for 2) bowled the opponents out for 3 ! (Not surprisingly the lowest recorded score against Mersea) to see Mersea victors by 26 runs.
In 1957 Basil Cock took 7 for 23 in a 38 run victory over Aveley.
In 1967, another seven wicket haul for a Mersea player but in a losing cause. Martin Cock returned 7 for 72 v Abberton, who were bowled out for 230. Mersea were bowled out for 53, and defeat by 177 runs.
In 1995, Stephen Rumble hit a record 144no for NECL 2s in a 111 run win at Braintree. Mersea posted 330 for 8, with Rumble sharing a fifth wicket stand of 113 with Graham Pryke (57).
In 2001, the NECL 1s completed an amazing weekend of run chases, with a two wicket success at Great Totham. Chasing Totham's 228 for 9, they were indebted to Ian Young (86) scoring his second fifty of the weekend, and a mature match winning 31no from 14yo Adam Rutter.
On the same day at home to High Easter for the 2s, Alex Pacey made his debut for the club.
6th August
In 1967, Lou Green returned figures of 8 for 64, as Grasshoppers were bowled out for 147. However, Mersea were a long way short bowled out for 31, and defeat by 116 runs.
In 1995, there was a double in the NECL. The 1s were at home to Tattingstone, and with Stuart Thomas Hempstead (4 for 19 from 10) and Stuart Mills (3 for 15) in good form with the ball, bowled the visitors out for 84. However, it was a nervy run chase with the top score being just 15, with Daniel Harness (9no) and Scot Farthing eventually getting Mersea to a 2wkt win.
The 2s had much a stiffer run chase at Eight Ash Green 2s, but cantered to a six wicket victory chasing 251. Robert Cornish , a career best (102no) and Graham Pryke (44no) putting on an unbroken 5th wicket stand of 75.
In 2006, Mersea came up agonisingly short of Cup upset in the Quarter Final against a strong Colchester & E.E at Castle Park. CEE made 278, but with Adam Rutter (43) and Alex Young (94) contributing big scores, and useful additions from LouiseIan Young (27) and Luke Conway (27), Mersea were bowled out for 265 with two overs left.
In 2016, there was a TC double. The 1s beat Long Melford 2s by 82 runs at The Glebe, with Rory Green (72) and Luke Conway (56) both recording fifties in the total of 251 for 9. Edward Gibson (3 for 21) claimed a hatrick in the Melford reply.
The 2s pulled off a shock win at second placed Cavaliers. Bowled out for just 138, with Peter Jackson (33 on debut) and Graham Pryke (25) top scoring it seemed that victory would be a formality for Cavaliers. However, Steve Smith (6 for 35) and Amit Tiwari (4 for 40) had other ideas as the home team were bowled out for 84.
7th August
In 1982, with a league restructure coming Mersea were trying to stay out of the bottom five to avoid relegation. The visitors to The Glebe were Elmstead, and Mersea won by 35 runs. Mersea batted first and scored 133, which was to be a winning score on more occasions during the latter stages of that season. Kevin Hewes took 4 for 20 as Elmstead collapsed, with Bob Judd taking two ridiculous catches at silly mid on.
In 1983, in D2 Mersea were back in league action after the tour, and defeated Little Clacton by 61 runs. Mel Hughes (58) and Mick Sutton (5 for 33) performing with bat and ball.
In 1993, the 2s beat Wivenhoe 2s by 67 runs. Bob Judd (52) and Lloyd Rayner (50no) both scoring fifties for Mersea.
On the same day the 3s lost by 2 wickets against Birch 2nd. Tom Golding, a career best 71no and Roy Jones 52 top scoring in Mersea's 206 for 7.
In 2005, despite an opening partnership of 147 between Graham Pryke and David Fahie (49), and Pryke going on to record his second career century with an unbeaten 125, Mersea were unable to defend 198 against Redgrave & Bressingham, and were beaten by 8 wickets in 23 overs !
In 2010, Luke Conway starred with an all round performance in the Two Counties D8 match with Eight Ash Green. Nick Gray (66) and Conway (65no - fifty off 24 balls) were the significant scorers in Mersea's 192. Conway then took 5 for 53 as Eight Ash Green were bowled out for 107.
8th August
In 1964, there were fifties for Dick Cudmore (66), Basil Cock (65) and Des Carter (55) in Mersea's 209 for 8 against Earls Colne. However, despite Tony Butcher taking 5 for 62, Mersea were unable to prize the last wicket and Earls Colne finished at 127 for 9, with the Match Drawn.
In 1970, Michael Laver took 7 for 35, and John Pope 3 for 20, as Mersea defended 77, to bowl out Earls Colne for 55 and win by 22 runs.
In 1993, Dale Wright's much talked about army colleague, Darren Cornhill made his debut in a league game at Tattingstone. The home side posted 229 from their 45 overs, and quickly removed Ian MacDonald for a duck as Mersea set about the reply. Cornhill came to the wicket and gave a master class blasting an unbeaten 148, including nine sixes, and sharing an unbroken 2nd wicket stand of 233 with Paul Sorrell who was unbeaten on 54. Victory by nine wickets came in the 22nd over !
On the same day at Chappel, the friendly side were winning by 134 runs. Matt Golding (51), Tom Golding (36) and Shaun Mills (30) top scored in Mersea's 203 for 8, before John Everett (4 for 26) and Robert Cornish (3 for 18) saw the hosts dismissed for 69. The game also marked a debut for Graham Brown.
In 2004, the 2s beat Boxted 2s by 78 runs at The Glebe. James Tilsley (65) and Graham Pryke (51) sharing a second wicket stand of 109, as Mersea went on to post 266 for 6.
In 2008, or 08/08/08, a Friday friendly against Hatfield Peverel saw Mersea win by 42 runs. Adam Rutter (52) and James Rutter put on an opening stand of 91, with James (106no) carrying his bat through the innings to become Mersea's youngest recorded centurion at 16yrs 9 days, as Mersea scored 250 for 5. Ricky Provan took 4 for 27 in the Peverel reply.
In 2010, there was an NECL double. The 1s bowled out Bocking for 172, with Matt Wilkin (4-38), and then chased down to win by 4 wickets with Luke Conway (58no) at the end.
The 2s were home to Lexden, and after faltering to 15 for 3, recovered to 172 for 8. David Fahie (36) top scoring in a good middle order effort. Trevor Vince (4 for 28) then weaved his magic as Lexden were bowled out for 146.
9th August
In 1964, Winston Cock (89) and Lou Green (5 for 48) lead Mersea to a 69 run win over Lexden.
In 1981, a friendly side crossed the bridge into Kent, for a match against Eridge. Bob Judd (50) and John Pope (37) top scored for Mersea in their 154 for 7. Eridge were 123 for 6 in reply, as the match was Drawn.
In 1992, there was a double over Tattingstone. The 1s won by 41 runs, with Paul Sorrell (79) and Mick Laver (60) putting on 136 for the first wicket, in Mersea's 245-5. Derek Wheat (4-36) and Scot Farthing (3-27) then ensured that Tattingstone came up short.
The 3s bt Tattingstone 2s by one wicket in a much closer encounter. Mersea bowled out the host for 100, and at 37 for 0 seemed well in control, with skipper Robert Cornish (25). However, wickets started to fall and it was left to David Green (16no) and Iain Farries (1no) to hold their nerve for a last wicket partnership of 7 to see Mersea home.
In 2009, there was another double in the NECL, with Mersea in free scoring mode. The 1s bt Bocking by 174 runs, after posting 272. Matt Golding 70 and Alex Young 69 putting on a fourth wicket stand of 139.
The 2s went even better scoring 276 for 4 in a 110 run victory over Boxted 2s. Richard Fuller (107) and Graham Bowers (54no) both scoring well.
In 2014, there was a tight match against Abberton 2s in the TC, which Mersea won by 2 runs. Mersea were bowled out for 154, and gave Abberton 12 extra overs to reach the target. With the captain clutching at straws for recognised bowlers, he turned to James Tilsley (5-40) who swayed the game in Mersea's favour. The game ended (and I can't believe I am writing this), with Matt White taking a 'diving' catch off the bowling of Darren Rumble.
Debuts on this day, saw Roy Jones make his first appearance in 1987 against West Bergholt, while the Gibson brothers Edward Gibson and Will Gibson did so in 2014 against Frinton 3rd.
10th August
In 1974, Mersea defeated MCTC by 65 runs, Keith Salter taking a career best 9 for 27.
In 1986, Paul Sorrell scored an unbeaten 100, and Michael Laver (55) as Mersea scored 213 for 4 against Great Bentley in D1, going on to win by 14 runs.
In 1997, there was a 26 run win for nine man Mersea at Clacton Ramblers in NECL D1. Fifties for Michael Laver (67), Stuart Mills (55) and Mel Hughes (53no) helped get Mersea to 247 for 7.
2007 saw a high scoring friendly at Hatfield Peverel. The hosts posted 284 for 4. Mersea in reply hit 254 for 8, with Steven Sheldrick (62) hitting a career best, and seemingly Graham Pryke (77) getting himself out of low scoring rut...the ace reporter at the time reporting.."the other highlight of the innings was Graham Pryke getting runs !! hiding down the order at number six and taking full advantage of the buffet bowling he his way out of the doldrums with 77".
In 2013, there were two Mersea centurions in different games. In the 1s game at home to St Osyth, Luke Bruce (103no) lead Mersea to a seven wicket success.
While Angus Lockhart (113) out of 219 for 9, was not enough for the 2s to defend against Harwich & Dovercourt 2nd, who won by 5 wickets.
11th August
In 1984, while the 1sts were getting beaten in a league game at Earls Colne, the friendly side inflicted a five wicket defeat on Severalls. Andrew Golding, a career best (5 for 36) and David Bond (3 for 5) doing the business with the ball.
In 1996, the 2s posted 266 for 7, against Grasshoppers 2s, with Nick Mussett (55), Kevin Mays (44) and Graham Pryke (40) all scoring well. Mersea going on to win by 127 runs.
In 2002, Daniel Harness (110) scored his third century of the season, and his second against Eight Ash Green 2s. However, his century was in vain as EAG chased down Mersea's 187 for 5, to win by 10 wickets !
In 2012, Adam Rutter (67no) and Matt White (50no) shared a second wicket stand of 120, as Mersea raced to a nine wicket TC win over Kelvedon 3rd.
In 2013, the 2s beat Chappel & Wakes Colne by 29 runs. Ian Young (55) - his third fifty on this date, and Michael Laver (41) sharing a third wicket stand of 94 in the Mersea total of 190 for 9. James Bibby (4 for 41) and Neil Goodridge (3 for 30) then claimed the wickets in the Chappel reply.
Debuts for Lloyd Rayner in 1991 against Tattingstone, while in 2018 John Gladwell made his first appearance.
12th August
In 1950, a spell of 8 for 18 by Brian Dobson saw Mersea able to defend 80, and win by 36 runs against West Bergholt.
In 1984, there was success in the League Plate Semi Final at Abberton. After bowling out Abberton for 100, with Paul Sorrell (5 for 34), Mersea cruised to a nine wicket success, with Trevor Vince (55) and Andy Harvey (35no) putting on an opening stand of 95.
In 1990. it was League Plate Final day, and the 2s represented Mersea in the final, as the 1s were in league action against Tattingstone. The 2s did not dissappoint bringing home the silverware with a 110 run victory over Great Bentley. Kenny Brush (80) and Jonathan Webb (53) set up the Mersea score of 217 for 7, with an opening stand of 126. The wickets were shared around with Terry Gander and John Pope taking three each, and Richard Bond and David Maiden taking two a piece.
Stuart Mills has had success with the ball on this day. In 1995, playing for the 2s he took 5 for 23 in a five wicket victory over Marks Tey.
In 2000, he returned his best ever figures for the club in an excellent ten over spell at Clacton Ramblers, he took 6 for 11, to see Mersea to a seven wicket success.
Not such a Glorious 12th in 2017, as in a Two Counties D6 match against Braintree 2nd, Mersea failed to defend 338 and lost by 3 wickets. The highest ever run chase by an opponent. David Taylor (141) and Jason Hoggarth (86), 2nd wicket stand of 145 was academic as the home side got home with an over to spare.
Luke Conway (3 for 103) going for a gallon on the day, while Digs solitary over went for 23.
Debut in 1979 for Richard Bond against NALGO.
13th August
In 1950, Mersea played The Fox - and won by 33 runs. G Smerdon top scored with 53no in Mersea's 82, and they saved Mersea's blushes against the Pub Team by taking 6 for 9.
In 1960, Lou Green took 7 for 9 as Mersea dismissed Earls Colne for 58, and won by 106 runs.
A tense finish in 1989 in D1, saw the 1s beat Tattingstone at The Glebe by one wicket. Set 163, the winning boundary was hit by Graham Pryke (4no).
In 1995, another D1 encounter saw Mersea put in an excellent all round performance to beat Elmstead by 34 runs. Stephen Rumble (76) top scored, while Daniel Harness (39), Stuart Mills (32) and Matt Golding (32no) all got starts in the Mersea's 231 for 6. Phil Hammond (4 for 53) was the most successful of the bowlers, although there was a miserly spell from Dabby Hempstead (2 for 18 from 10).
In 2016, the TC 1st XI beat Easton 2nds by 138 runs. Rory Green (89no) top scored in the Mersea total of 242, before Matt Wilkin (6 for 48) had significant input in the Easton reply.
In 1978, a drawn home friendly against NALGO, saw Ian Young make his debut and score his first 11 runs of his career. 686 games later and he is now the highest scoring Mersea batsmen, with over 15000 runs, 8 centuries and 91 fifties.
14th August
In 1971, Michael Laver took his 11th fivefor of the season, returning 7 for 25 as Great Bromley were bowled out for 70. Mersea winning by 4 wickets.
In the 1983 championship winning season, Mersea travelled to Great Bromley and were bowled out for 101. However, Derek Wheat (4 for 3), Dabby Hempstead (3 for 6 from 10) and Percy Sadler (3 for 13 from 10) saw the hosts dismissed for 48.
In 1988, a Cup Final appearance for the club at Great Bentley ended in a six wicket defeat to Kelvedon. Stuart Mills (32no) top scored in the disappointing Mersea score of 131 for 9.
Meanwhile at Langford, Stuart Hempstead (88) was showing the first team what they were missing, top scoring in Mersea's 168 for 6. The game ended in a draw with Langford nine wickets down, and requiring 11 to win.
In 2005, the 1s beat Elmstead by 61 runs after scoring 242 for 6. Adam Rutter (64) and Ian Young (60) scored fifties at the top of the order for Mersea, before Luke Conway (4 for 38) and Dabby Hempstead (3 for 26) performed with the ball.
In 1982, Robert Cornish made his debut for the club in a friendly against West Bergholt, scoring 4 not out and taking 2 for 4 from his 4 overs.
15th August
In 1970, despite Bernie Milgate taking 5 for 31, Mersea were unable to chase down the Birch score of 82, and lost by 10 runs.
In 1981, a low scoring tied match at The Glebe, against D1 champions Abberton. Mersea batted first and scored 104 for 9, with Bob Judd (32) top scoring. In reply, Abberton were also 104 for 9, Richard Bond (3 for 25) and Derek Wheat (3 for 30) bowling important spells.
In 1993, with no first team game during the weekend, a strong second team travelled to Kirby and won by 113 runs. Mark Mahon (57) top scored in Mersea's 199 for 9, before Paul Sorrell (4 for 26) and Dabby Hempstead (3 for 15) took the lion share of the wickets.
In 2004, the 2s beat St Osyth 2s by 63 runs. Graham Pryke (75) and Mike Srinivasan (37) scoring most in the Mersea score of 214 for 7.
In 2010, an opening stand of 128 between Stuart Mills (70) and Alex Young set Mersea on their way to a big league win over Chappel & Wakes Colne. Young went on to record a career best 170, including 10 sixes as Mersea posted 319 for 8. Darren Rumble then claimed 5 for 40, as Mersea won by 195 runs.
16th August
John Pope had success on this day with the ball, the matches in 1969 and 1970 against Great Bromley saw him take 7 for 29 and 5 for 69 respectively. The 1969 game saw Mersea win by 44 runs, but in 1970 Bromley prevailed by 137 runs.
David Green was another who enjoyed the day, in 1969 for the 2s he took 6 for 14 v. Birch in a 44 run win, while in 1987 in a friendly with Eight Ash Green he took 6 for 26, the side losing by 44 runs on that occasion.
In 1980, Mersea went close to toppling Abberton at The Glebe. Set 174 for victory, Trevor Vince (75), a then league best for Mersea, got the team to within 12 runs.
n 1981 a 11th hour call up saw Andy Harvey make his 1st XI league debut against Little Clacton. Jim Stannard (63) opened and set up the Clacton score of 178-8. Mersea were a poor second 111-9, with Trevor Vince 47 the only player in double figures. Harvey batting at 9, made 7.
In 1998, a five wicket victory at Great Bromley in D1, chasing 181 to win. Matt Golding (40no) and Jonathan Webb (19no) shared an unbeaten 6th wicket stand of 72 to see Mersea home.
In 2014, a thrilling match at home to Coggeshall 3rds, saw the TC2s lose by one wicket with four balls to spare. Mersea had posted 223 for 8, with Ian Young 77 and Rory Green 50, top scoring. The Coggeshall openers put on 142 for the first wicket before Charles Gayton (5 for 17) and Rory Green (4 for 41) saw the wickets tumble, but the last wicket pair scored the nine runs required to seal the victory. The game also marked a debut for Henry Gayton.
In 2015, in the NECL, Mersea beat Rayne by 38 runs. Luke Conway (129) top scoring in the Mersea total of 198 for 7, Kevin Hewes (15) was the next highest scorer on the day, and shared a 5th wicket stand of 97 !
17th August
In 1957, Des Carter (29) top scored in Mersea's 102 v Earls Colne, he then took 5 for 5 as Mersea won by 15 runs. The game also marked a first appearance for John Borrie.
In 1963, Carter again figured in a Mersea win. After bowling Great Bromley out for 147, with Tony Butcher (6 for 28) prominent, Mersea slipped to 14 for 3, before Des Carter (62) top scored as Mersea won by one wicket.
In 1986, Michael Harvey (6 for 11) returned a career best in a five wicket D1 win over COLCO. Chasing 117, for victory he claimed the man of the match award, as he top scored with 42no as Mersea stuttered to 14 for 3 in reply.
In 2008, a confident first eleven went to Chappel & Wakes Colne, having the previous week equalled a club record 10 successive league victories. Luke Bruce (6 for 29) set up a realistic chance of breaking the record as Chappel were bowled out for 138. However, in reply the Mersea batting failed, with the exception of James Tilsley (69no), who run out of partners, four runs short.
On the same day, the 2s were beating their Chappel & Wakes Colne counterparts by 69 runs. Richard Fuller (85) and Neil Goodridge (33) top scoring in Mersea's 198 for 8.
In 2013, the TC 2s beat Maldon 4th by 112 runs. Angus Lockhart (73) got Mersea off to a rapid start, while old stagers Michael Laver (31no) and Kevin Hewes (58no) put on an unbroken 6th wicket stand of 103 to see Mersea up to 245 for 5.
18th August
In 1973, Will Scott scored an unbeaten 107, and then took 2 for 8 from 10 as Mersea beat Grasshoppers by 79 runs.
In 1990, the 2s beat Paxmans by 11 runs, defending just 108. Kevin Hewes top scored with 37 in the Mersea innings, and then took 6 for 29.
On the same day in a friendly at Tiptree United, there were half centuries for Martin Game (72) and Stuart Mills (52) in the Mersea total of 231 for 8, before Michael Laver (5 for 39) took the honours with the ball, in a 125 run victory.
In 1996, a sensational run chase at Copford in D1, saw Mersea win by 5 wickets, chasing 240. The victory was set up by openers Daniel Harness (91) and Kevin Hewes (52), whose opening stand of 135 came off just 15 overs (yes you heard that right, and Hewes was first out). Mel Hughes (19no) and Dabby Hempstead (31no) finished off the chase with an unbroken 6th wicket stand of 49.
In 2013, ten man Mersea went down to High Easter in D1 by 17 runs, with more than 15 overs left ! Chasing 191, Darren Rumble (31) and Luke Bruce put on a rapid 92 for the 2nd wicket, before wickets started to tumble. Luke Bruce (86) was 8th man out with the score on 159, and despite the last pair of Chris Storrar and Matt Wilkin edging towards the target they were unable to finish the job.
19th August
Will Scott, who was mentioned in dispatches yesterday, figured in a game on this day in 1972...this time with the ball, he took 6 for 21 as Mersea defended 66 against Harwich & Dovercourt, winning by 13 runs.
In 1961, Scott made his debut for the club in a home friendly with Great Bromley.
In 1973, Mersea bowled Tollesbury out for 43 to win by 40 runs. Percy Sadler (5 for 4) and George Watson (5 for 9) sharing the wickets.
In 1979, Mel Hughes (69) top scored in a D1 encounter at Little Clacton. Unfortunately, the Mersea score of 126 was no where near enough as the hosts won by 5 wickets.
Better fortune for Mel in 1984, where his top score of 70, and a third wicket stand of 107, with Michael Laver (58no) got Mersea to 186 for 3 in a D1 match with Great Bentley. Mersea going on to win by 25 runs.
In 2001, in D2, Mersea defended 109, of which Daniel Harness top scored with 46, to beat Lexden by 33 runs. Kevin Hewes (3 for 7) and Gerhard Prinsloo (3 for 27) and a run out reducing Lexden to 34 for 7 at one stage.
In 2012, the 2s beat Copdock & Old Ipswichians 2s by 14 runs. Michael Laver (58) and Ian Young (74) putting on a third wicket stand of 117 in Mersea's 194 for 7.
20th August
In 1955, Mersea scored the perfect Richie Benaud score, 222 for 2 against Great Bromley. Basil Cock a career best 119no, Des Carter 44no and David Day 39 all contributing. Lou Green 6 for 18 and Sid Vince 4 for 29 then ensure a Mersea win by 141 runs.
In 1983, the battle for the second division championship was reaching its climax, Mersea with four games left were top and went to Cressing. Derek Wheat took 4 for 59 as Cressing were bowled out for 126. However, in reply Mersea were in trouble at 22 for 4, with Andy Harvey, Trevor Vince and Martin Cock all back in the pavilion without troubling the score. Mel Hughes (29) was fifth man out with the score on 47. Percy Sadler (55no) and Richard Bond (27) then put on a match winning stand of 75 to see Mersea to a four wicket success.
In 1995, Mersea edged another tight game at home to Silver End. The visitors were bowled out for 134, with Stuart Hempstead (4-24) the most successful home bowler. Mersea were 90 for 6 in reply, before a 40 run stand between Stuart Mills (26no) and Michael Laver (18) for the 7th wicket saw Mersea almost home, eventually winning by 3 wickets.
In 2006, Mersea beat Copford at The Glebe by 6 runs. Stuart Mills (48) top scored in Mersea's 137, and it appeared that Copford were cruising to victory at 103 for 4. Dabby Hempstead (3 for 8) and Chris Storrar (2 for 4), saw six wickets fall for 28 runs as Mersea won.
In 2016, Nick Gray (105no) scored a career best against Boxted, which included a fifth wicket stand of 167 with Michael Laver (46). Despite Mersea posting 261, Boxted went on to win by 7 wickets !
21st August
In 1954, Mersea bowled out Great Bromley for 45, with Sid Vince taking 7 for 18. Mersea won by 7 wickets.
In 1971, a one wicket defeat at the hands of Birch, despite Michael Laver taking 6 for 28, which included his 100th wicket of the season.
In 1977, the first NECL league season, Mersea beat Great Bentley by 42 runs at The Glebe. Mick Sutton (44) top scored in the Mersea score of 121 for 6, before Dabby Hempstead (4 for 12 from 9) performed with the ball.
In 1982, a friendly win at the very small Cressing ground by 8 wickets. Chasing 210 for victory, Trevor Vince equalled his career best with an unbeaten 91, and shared a second wicket stand of 143 with Mick Seeley (61), who retired hurt after top edging into his chin.
In 1988, despite Michael Cooper (64) and David Green (6 for 19) impressing with bat and ball, Mersea were unable to force a result in a friendly with Royal London, who were 99 for 9 at the close.
In 1994, another impressive run chase of 220, was lead by Stuart Mills (60no) and Stuart Hempstead (74no) with a third wicket partnership of 118, saw Mersea to an eight wicket D1 success over Shalford.
In 2011, a much closer run chase saw Mersea eventually prevail by one wicket at Bocking. Chasing 163 for victory, Adam Rutter carried his bat for an unbeaten 90, and was involved in a last wicket stand of 22 with Tom Sanderson to nick the win.
22nd August
In 1970, two five wicket performances resulted in contrasting results. At Grasshoppers, Michael Laver took 8 for 28 as Mersea bowled out the hosts for 73, eventually winning by one wicket.
Meanwhile, at home to Birch, Trevor Greenleaf took a career best 6 for 28 as Birch were bowled out for 107. Unfortunately, Mersea lost this one by 47 runs, in a game that marked Percy Sadler's debut for the club.
In 1982, in D1, Mersea got to within 15 runs of the Boxted total of 181 for 9. Martin Cock (59) and Mel Hughes (37) top scoring, while Andy Harvey, after missing out on a Cressing belter the day before, was run out for 0. It would appear the arm around the shoulder happened at the next selection committee, as Snudger was omitted from the next 1st XI league match.
On the same day in 1982, a friendly side beat Paxmans by 28 runs, David Fahie top scoring with 36, before Hec Hewes took 5 for 18 with his leggies.
In 2009, the TC side beat Woodbridge & O.W. 2s by 7 wickets. Matt Wilkin (6-32) staring with the ball, while Luke Bruce (61no) dominated the reply.
In 2010, a friendly win over Kelvedon saw Graham Bowers (83) top scoring in Mersea's 195 for 4.
A debut on this day, 46 years ago in 1964, for Trevor Vince in a seven wicket defeat at Tolleshunt D'Arcy. TJ began his illustrious career, as many have done, with a duck !
23rd August
39 years ago in 1981, an unwanted half century birthed a cricket term synonymous with the Mallard Trophy. Richard Bond opened the batting in a D1 match at Boxted, and remained at the crease for 50 balls before being dismissed for a duck ! In today's currency the Bondy would have been worth a massive 6 points in Mallard Trophy terms. Unsurprisingly, it has not been bettered / or worsened in almost 40 years.
On the same day in a friendly against Chappel & Wakes Colne, George Watson claimed 5 for 8 in a four wicket win.
In 1987, a nine wicket success in a friendly match with Eastern Gas, was largely down to an unbroken stand of 114 between Andrew Game (56no) and Ian Young (53no).
In 1992, Dale Wright took 5 for 8 for the 2s as they dismissed Clacton Ramblers for 54, on the way to an eight wicket win.
In 2014, the TC 2s suffered a record equalling low score for Mersea of 13 v. Eight Ash Green 2s. Luke Bruce top scored with 9, and Rory Green was the only other to score with 1, with 8 others suffering ducks to their name.
Debutants on this day, in 1997 Michael Snow made his first appearance against Paxmans, while in 2008 Doctor Amit Tiwari did so against Maldon 4th.
24th August
In 1975, Percy Sadler achieved the double of a 50 and 5for in the same game for the second time that season. Top scoring with 51 in Mersea's 112, he then took 5 for 28 as Mersea beat COLCO by 11 runs.
In 1985, the 2s beat Great Bentley 2s by 6 runs in the Reserve League. Graham Pryke (42) top scored in the Mersea total of 119, while spin twins David Green (3-14) and Hec Hewes (3-20) shared 6 wickets.
In 1986, a trip to Castle Park In D1, with the boards still surrounding the ground after Essex week, saw Mersea beat Colchester & E.E. by 4 wickets. Michael Laver (4-33) and Martin Game (3-11) were the chief wicket takers as Colchester made 123-9.
In 2003, Mersea were putting a good run together in D2 and pushing for promotion. Against Great Bentley at The Glebe, Mersea won by 42 runs.Skipper Kevin Hewes (73), sharing 2nd wicket partnership of 95 with Ian Young (49) and a 3rd wicket stand of 103 with Stuart Mills (49), in Mersea's 235-6.
In 2014, the 2s beat Wormingford by 178 runs, Neil Goodridge and Kevin Hewes (77) setting a new second eleven opening stand of 192. Goodridge went on to score a career best 129.
And in 2019, a Mersea TC record opening stand of 182 not out between Luke Conway (104*) and Matt Wilkin (65*), saw Mersea to a ten wicket success in just 16.4 overs at home to Felixstowe & Corinthians 2s.
25th August
In 1984, the 2s beat Grasshoppers 2s by 7 wickets in the Reserve League. Eddie Gamble, taking 5 for 28, before David Green top scored with 37 in the reply.
In 1985, more success at Castle Park with the advertising hoardings up from Essex Cricket Week the week before. Mersea restricted Colchester & E.E to 121 for 9, with Derek Wheat 4-29 and Dabby Hempstead 3 for 13 from 10 impressing with the ball. Mel Hughes 52no and Andy Harvey 47 then put on 93 for the second wicket, making a seven wicket victory a formality.
In 1990, Kevin Hewes scored his maiden century for the club, and career best with an unbeaten 123 in a friendly match with Bures. Ian Young (54) shared a third wicket stand of 105, as Mersea posted 239 for 3. Despite Robert Coan taking a career best 4 for 21, Mersea were unable to force a result with Bures seven down for 152.
In 1991, Mersea were again enjoying playing in front of the stands at Castle Park, recording a 46 run win over Colchester & E.E. Paul Sorrell (57) and Michael Laver (52) putting on an opening stand of 91, before Michael Harvey (40) hit the boards late on, as Mersea reached 224 for 8.
In 2008, Mersea crushed Halstead in Division 1 of the NECL by 152 runs at The Glebe. James Tilsley (56) the only Mersea batsmen to top 30 in their total of 228, before Luke Bruce (3 for 12) and Kevin Hewes (3 for 23) helped dismiss Halstead for 76.
In 2013, the 2s went to Tendring and won by 111 runs. There were half centuries for Luke Conway (78), including seven sixes and Adam Rutter (71) as Mersea posted 270 for 8. In reply, Trevor Vince was the most successful of the bowlers returning 4 for 30. Unusual quirk of this match was that all four openers in the game, registered ducks !
26th August
In 1974, Trevor Vince 87 and Martin Cock 64 both scored half centuries as Mersea posted 194 for 6 against Wivenhoe. John Pope took 4 for 22 in the reply, but Mersea were unable to force a win as Wivenhoe ended on 99 for 9.
In 1984, there was silverware in the form of the NECL League Plate. Mersea beating Prettygate by 90 runs in the final. Michael Laver (69) and Martin Cock (44) top scoring in Mersea's total of 203 for 8.
In 1990, there was yet another late August win at Castle Park, Mersea beating Colchester & E.E by 5 wickets. Stuart Hempstead 3-26 was the most successful bowlers as the hosts were bowled out for 119, while Mel Hughes 32 and Ian Young 34no top scored in the Mersea reply.
In 1995, a Division 1 victory at Shrub End, chasing Grasshoppers 190, Mersea won by 3 wickets, with Kevin Hewes (91) leading the reply.
In 2007, Alex Young hit an unbeaten 124 in Mersea's 287 for 6 against Boxted in D1. Mersea winning the match by 152 runs.
In 2012, at Spring Lane the 2s beat Lexden by 54 runs. Kevin Hewes (82) and Neil Goodridge (72), sharing a 2nd wicket stand of 127, as Mersea posted 199 for 4.
Debutants on this day, both against Rain Men, in 2012 Steve Daines and in 2013, James Handford
27th August
In 1949, the very first scorecard in this historical series of games, saw Mersea beat Great Bentley by 46 runs. WInston Cock top scored with 57, while Sid Vince claimed the accolades with the ball, taking 8 for 34.
In 1973, a friendly at Wivenhoe, saw the hosts bowled out for 36, with Michael Laver taking 5 for 6, unfortunately, rain intervened and Mersea did not get a chance to chase the score.
In 1983, a friendly against Bures ended in a draw. Mersea posting 215 for 6, with Louise Ian Young 70 and a maiden half century for Michael Harvey 57no top scoring.
A 1988 D1 victory at Tattingstone by 20 runs. Mersea batted first and only scored 136, with Paul Sorrell (34) top scoring. However, a good all round fielding performance, that saw two wickets each for Kevin Hewes, Dabby Hempstead, Derek Wheat and Martin Game, as well as three catches at the wicket for Mel Hughes saw the hosts bowled out for 116.
In 1994, a maiden century for Stuart Mills (116), and useful additions by Stuart Thomas Hempstead (44no) and Kevin Hewes (41) saw Mersea post 257 for 3 at The Glebe against Bures. However, it was not enough as Bures eased to a seven wicket success.
And good performances in losing causes seem to haunt Stuart Mills, as in 2001 he took 5 for 19 from his 10 overs in a one wicket defeat at Hatfield Peverel in D2. Louise Ian Young had earlier top scored for Mersea in their 142 for 9, with 59.
28th August
In 1949, an opening stand of 114 between Basil Cock 67 and Winston Cock 57, set Mersea on their to a 46 run victory over MLNS.
In 1977, in the first season in the NECL, Mersea beat Woods at The Glebe by 28 runs, after only scoring 79. A miserly spell from Dabby Hempstead (2 for 4 from 9), set up Michael Laver (5 for 16) to take a match winning five for.
In 1983, the 1s beat the only team to beat them in the 1983 season, Eight Ash Green. Mersea scored 194 for 8, with Louise Ian Young (59) and Martin Cock (33) top scoring, before Derek Wheat took 6 for 23, as Mersea won by 92 runs.
On the same day the 2s beat their Eight Ash Green counterparts by 53 runs, Trevor Vince (56) top scoring, while Eddie Gamble returned 4 for 27.
In 2000, a career best 71 by Nick Charles Mussett at home to Abberton 2s in a Mersea score of 217 for 6, was not enough to avoid to 2 wicket defeat.
In 2005, a last ball boundary by Trevor Vince saw the 2s to a 2 wicket success at Tendring, chasing 189. Luke Conway (50) and Luke Sawkins (40) had earlier put in important innings. The game also saw Dominic Fuller make his debut.
In 2011, the 2s beat Boxted 2s by 57 runs, Kevin Hewes (75no) and Neil Goodridge (60) top scoring in the Mersea score of 220 for 6. Gregor Irvine taking 4 for 13 in the Boxted reply.
Other debuts on this day, in 1978 at Harwich & Dovercourt, club umpire Graham Woods was called upon to don his whites, while in 1985, Iain Farries made his first appearance against MCTC.
29th August
Lou Green picked up five wicket hauls in both 1959 and 1964. In 1959, he took 8 for 51 as Mersea beat Frinton by 2 wickets. In 1964, his 5-15 helped dismiss Birch for 80, but Mersea were beaten by 5 runs.
In 1977, in the NECL against Wivenhoe, Mersea suffered their lowest ever NECL score, bowled out for 22 and defeat by 138 runs.
In 1982, the year that keeps giving, Andy Harvey found himself dropped to the second team. Luckily, the venue for his Reserve League game was Cressing, the ground he missed out on two weeks ago when captain Trevor Vince told him that the conditions of a big run chase were not right for him and Mersea won by 7 wickets ! On this occasion, he was batting at number three, and watched openers Roy Hammick (46) and David Fahie (41) put on 85 for the first wicket. However, his stay at the crease was short lived, as he was...wait for it...RUN OUT for 2. No doubt it will be a direct hit from the boundary, by a one armed half blind fielder.....although the more likely culprit will be the surviving opener ! We shall see. The 2s went on to score 176 for 9, and won by 6 runs.
A much happier performance for Harvey in 1987, where he was the more fluent partner (42) in a second wicket stand of 65 with Paul Sorrell in the League Plate Final against Kelvedon. Mersea posted 165 for 6, with Paul Sorrell (73), and won by 3 runs with Michael Harvey (4 for 37) the chief wicket taker.
In 1994, Mersea posted 189 for 8 in a drawn friendly against Chappel. The highlight of the Mersea innings was 15 year old Daniel Harness (73) scoring his maiden fifty.
In 2009, the TC team chased down Ipswich's 184 to win by 4 wickets. David Taylor (52) and Luke Bruce (39) leading the successful run chase.
30th August
In 1981, Dabby Hempstead returned 6 for 7, as Kirby were bowled out for 92. Mersea winning by 3 wickets.
In 1986, Michael Harvey (75) top scored in a friendly win at Cavaliers, with Kevin Hewes (5 for 24) taking his first five wicket haul.
In 1987, a day after Andy Harvey had figured in the Plate Final, he scored an unbeaten 53 as Mersea posted 177 for 5, and beat Lexden by 102 runs in D1.
In a 1998 D1 match at Maldon, two classy left handed openers scored fifties for their respective sides. Kevin Hewes (57) top scored in Mersea's 173 for 8, but was outdone by Maldon's 13 year old Alistair Cook (62) I am sure the young lad learnt a lot from the first innings - Stuart Mills eventually claiming the prize wicket of Cook. However, Maldon won by 4 wickets.
In 2004, fifties for Daniel Harness (55) and Alex Young (53) saw Mersea to a 63 run success over West Bergholt in D1.
On the same day, probably the most talented of the Wargent family, James Wargent, made his debut in a second eleven game with West Bergholt 2s.
In 2008, in another NECL D1 game with West Bergholt, Luke Conway took 6 for 19 as Bergholt were bowled out for 87. Stuart Mills (46no) then ensured a rapid end to the game as Mersea won by 8 wickets in the 13th over.
In 2009, a thrilling finish to the 2s match at High Easter saw them win by 2 runs. Mersea had posted 211 for 8, and when the Easter openers put on 104 for the first wicket in less than 15 overs it seemed as though the home side would cruise to victory. However, Trevor Vince (3 for 31) and Mike Srinivasan (2 for 27) turned the tide Mersea's way, before skipper Neil Goodridge nipped in with 2 for 16, including the match winning caught and bowled. Easter still had 3 overs left when the last wicket went down.
31st August
In 1958, despite half centuries from DP Garnon-Williams (60no) and John Borrie 59 in a 3rd wicket stand of 80, as Mersea posted 185 for 4 v. Frinton, the side were unable to claim a win as Frinton reached 80 for 8.
In 1963, Alan Dawson returned a career best 8 for 43 in a two wicket defeat against Tendring.
In 2002, the 1s beat Tendring in D2 by 101 runs. Louise Ian Young (81no) top scored, while Stuart Mills (6 for 19) took wickets. The game will also be remembered for an unfortunate incident that denied Kevin Hewes a crack at the most innings without a duck. Having survived 84 innings and 5 years, he opened the batting with Graham Pryke. Calling for a single to mid off who was set back, he almost reached the non striking end, when he discovered the plump little budgie still sitting on his perch / bat ! Scrambling back to almost complete two he was run out by about a foot, with Prykie exclaiming there never was a single there !
In 2003, a high scoring game at The Glebe resulted in a 2 run win for the 2s over Galleywood. Half centuries, for Alex Young (56), Louise Ian Young (51) and Graham Pryke (50) in the Mersea score of 259 for 5, before Louise Ian Young starred with the ball and took 5 for 39.
In 2009, scores by Luke Conway (48), James Tilsley (42) and Alex Young (41) set Mersea up for a big score at home to Halstead. However, Chris Storrar (93) batting at number nine, put a nice finishing touch as Mersea reached 334, going on to win by 156 runs.
1st September
In 1985, a rare victory in D1 against Earls Colne at The Glebe, Mersea eventually winning by 2 wickets. Richard Bond (4 for 29) had helped bowl Earls Colne out for 138. Michael Laver (32) scored well at the top of the order, before Mersea slipped to 75 for 6. John Keating (40) then saw Mersea to the win.
In 1996, a maiden century for Daniel Harness (105), and a third wicket stand of 127 with Stuart Thomas Hempstead (84no) saw Mersea chase down 248 to win by 7 wickets at Abberton.
In 2001, the 2s beat Cavaliers 2s by 159 runs in D4. Mersea posted 231 for 2, with Graham Pryke (96no) opening the batting and not completing a century...in fact playing out a maiden in the last over...and I get ridiculed for slow play ! John Woods (57) and Mike Srinivasan (51no) were a bit sharper to their fifties. Dizzy Gillespie (3 for 17), Alex Young (2 for 14) and Tommy Driscoll (2 for 4) were the wicket takers as Cavaliers were dismissed for 74.
In 2002, a five wicket defeat by Marks Tey for the 2s, the only highlight being antipodean Matt Simpson (5 for 19) claiming all five Tey wickets to fall.
In 2007, Kevin Hewes (70) and Luke Bruce (43no) saw Mersea post 226 for 6 at Abberton. Bruce then took 4 for 30 as Mersea won by 34 runs.
In 2013, South African Renier Grobler hit 117, and enjoyed a club record sixth wicket stand of 184 with Kevin Hewes, as Mersea 2s posted 275 for 6 against Lexden, going onto win by 94 runs.
Debuts for Tom Golding in 1991 for the thirds against Halstead Fenns, while in 2007, Matt Wilkin played his first game at home to Clacton Ramblers.
2nd September
In 1950, Sid Vince took 7 for 14 as Mersea beat Brightlingsea by 72 runs.
In 1984, and NECL double over Kelvedon. The 1s posted 138 for 8 at Kelvedon, with Paul Sorrell 45no top scoring. Kelvedon were bowled out for 76, with Derek Wheat taking 5 for 14.
The 2s meanwhile were winning by 72 runs at The Glebe, Bob Judd 66, Louise Ian Young 47no and Mick Seeley 40 all scoring well in Mersea's 204 for 4.
In 2000, some serious red ink....see yesterday !! Elmstead Grasshoppers 2s posted 233 for 5, and in reply Mersea 2s were 162 for 2 !! Trevor Vince 51 retired hurt, while the other opener Graham Pryke 78no ....no further comments on this one !
In 2001, Mersea beat Cressing in D2 by 240 runs, Kevin Hewes (121) and Michael Laver (88) putting on a club record stand for all wickets and the first wicket of 262. A lithe (hard to believe but he was once) Alex Young then took 5 for 17 on his 15th birthday, for his first five wicket haul.
In 2012, Mersea lost the League Plate Final to Maldon at Halstead, with the scores tied having lost more wickets. Luke Conway (53) top scored in 208 for 8, while the only person to not hear an audible edge from the Maldon top scorer was the umpire !
In 2017, the 2s beat Coggeshall 3s by one wicket chasing 132. Amit Tiwari (4 for 31) and Elliott Drage (3 for 35) had impressed with the ball. Michael Laver (48) top scored at the top of the order in the reply, before Steve Drage and Graham Pryke put on a last wicket stand of 13 to claim the win.
3rd September
In 1955, Sid Vince was amongst the wicket again taking 7 for 23 in a 76 run victory over Birch.
In 1988, a home league match with Tattingstone, was decided by an emphatic spell of bowling from Stuart Mills, taking 5 for 2 in 25 deliveries, to see Mersea win by 47 runs.
In 1989, there was a double over Boxted in the NECL. The 1s won by 65 runs after posting 254 for 6, with Paul Sorrell (101) hitting a century.
It was a much closer affair for the 2s, Michael Cooper (80no) and Jonathan Webb (40) lead the side to 167 for 3, with the team prevailing by 2 runs.
In 1994, the 3rds beat Tendring Park 2s by 7 wickets, chasing 197. Trevor Vince 60no and Gary Conway 62 leading the run chase, with a little flourish at the end from birthday boy Daniel Harness (33no) on his 16th.
In 1995, a strong second team posted 282 for 4 against Eight Ash Green 2nds, and won by 67 runs. Kevin Hewes (93), Stephen Rumble (64) and Stuart Thomas Hempstead (52) all completing half centuries.
More recently in 2016, the TC side beat West Bergholt by 99 runs, with Darren Rumble (6 for 28) the chief destroyer as Bergholt were bowled out for 80.
A debut in 2000 v Lexden for Trevor Trout.
4th September
In 1971, Michael Laver continued his record breaking season with the ball, by taking a career best 9 for 54 in a 4 wicket win against Eight Ash Green.
In 1983, Mersea won their penultimate game in D2 against Tendring Park to remain at the top of the table going into the last fixture. Martin Cock (76) top scored as Mersea won by 37 runs.
In 1993, the 1s routed Wivenhoe by 245 runs ! Lloyd Rayner 69, Dale Wright 68no and Ian MacDonald 58, all scoring fifties in Mersea's 284-5. Darren Rumble then took 6 for 16 as Wivenhoe were skittled for 39.
On the same day the 3s posted 265-7 and beat Tendring Park 2s by 41 runs. Jonathan Webb (103) scored a career best century, while Trevor Vince also scored 46.
In 1999, another century for Louise Ian Young (106no), enjoying a second wicket stand of 141 with Mark Mahon (58) as Mersea posted 246-2 to beat Tendring by 28 runs.
In 2005, Alex Young was given the privilege of tossing the coin in the league match at Castle Park, against Colchester & E.E. He did call correctly, but for some reason invited Colchester to bat...who duly accumulated 392 for 1 !! Stuart Mills (53) top scored for Mersea but we still registered a 233 run defeat.
In 2010, a successful run chase against Little Baddow. Chasing 195, a third wicket stand of 127 between James Tilsley (79no) and Luke Bruce (66) saw Mersea well on the way to a comfortable six wicket win.
In 2011, more watching paint dry, as Neil Goodridge (89) and Kevin Hewes (87no) put on 165 for the second wicket in a 21 run victory over Lexden.
5th September
In 1959, Basil Cock (107no) and Winston Cock 68 put on an opening stand of 141 against Kelvedon in Mersea's 212 for 2. Lou Green then took 8 for 62 as Mersea won by 41 runs.
In 1981, David Green's career best 79 against Copford was not enough to get Mersea over the line in their D1 game, losing by 7 runs.
In 1987, another victory at home to Tattingstone. Chasing 169, Paul Sorrell 57 and Mel Hughes 46no top scored as Mersea won by 5 wickets.
In 1993, a career best 69 not out for David Maiden in the 3s match with Eight Ash Green 3s. Mersea posted 188 for 8, but lost by 6 wickets.
In 2004, the 1s beat Great Bromley by 7 wickets chasing 150. Adam Rutter (57) top scored, but a remarkable unbroken fourth wicket stand of 43, between Matt Golding (43no) and Graham Bowers (0no) saw Mersea to victory.
In 2015, the last TC match of the season saw Mersea scrambling for players for their home game with Sudbury 3rd, and a number of guest players making their debut (six in all). That included Fijians Rabici Lesuma and Prayash Gansheshalingah, as well as Graham Davies. Four fifties in the Mersea innings from David Taylor 75, Lesuma 61, Ganheshalingah 56 and Luke Conway 52, as well as 42 from Chris Rayner saw Mersea post 298 for 4, and set up a 183 run victory.
6th September
In 1969, an unbeaten 87 from Winston Cock, and then a spell of 5 for 8 by Keith Salter saw Mersea to a 7 run victory over Eight Ash Green.
In 1980, a 55 run defeat at Copford will not be remembered for any on field activity, but for the return journey back to Mersea of David Green, and a car full of juniors. A tricky T junction on the back roads, taking six attempts to negotiate. It must have been a good night, David phoned TJ the next morning to see where the club kit bag was....the retort from TJ....... 'in your boot'
In 1981, Mersea recovered from 62 for 5, with a sixth wicket partnership between Dabby Hempstead 82 and Bob Judd 28no. Derek Wheat 4 for 23 and Kevin Hewes 4 for 46, then saw Mersea to a 27 run victory.
In 1987, Mersea chased 160 to beast Wivenhoe by 4 wickets in D1. Recovering from 37 for 4, Michael Harvey 38, Bob Judd 33 and Louise Ian Young 39no all put in solid contributions.
In 1998, Mersea beat Little Clacton in D1 by 5 runs. Mat Newton (38) top scored in the Mersea score of 155 for 9, and then took 5 for 19.
In 2009, resident number eleven for the first team, Darren Rumble, had his day with the bat. Opening the innings, chasing Kelvedon's 243, he scored a career best 102, with Mersea going on to win by 6 wickets.
In 2014, Mersea beat Sudbury 3rd by 26 runs in TC. Luke Conway and Luke Bruce each scored 30 in a Mersea total of 129. The match winner though was Peter Phillips, who returned career best figures for Mersea of 7 for 20.
7th September
In 1969, Mersea won a friendly against Copford by 15 runs. Michael Laver (28) top scored in the Mersea innings of 76, and then took 3 for 16, while John Pope returned 6 for 10.
In 1986, the 1s defeated Wivenhoe in D1 by 33 runs. Andy Harvey (66), Martin Cock 43 and Michael Laver 40 top scoring in the Mersea score of 225 for 7. David Green then returned 5 for 30.
In 1991, the 2s beat Cavendish 2s by 58 runs. Trevor Vince 78 and Paul Sorrell 69, top scoring in Mersea's 211 for 6.
In 2003, the 2s beat Marks Tey by 162 runs. Adam Rutter (89) and Stuart Mills (54) putting on a second wicket stand of 113. In the reply, there were three wickets a piece for David Maiden and Luke Bruce.
In 2008, Mersea won a rain affected Cup Semi Final at The Glebe against Springfield by 78 runs. In a game reduced to 30 overs per side, and suffering an hour an half delay just before the interval, Mersea posted 189 for 8, with Alex Young (50) top scoring. Springfield were restricted to 111 for 9 in reply.
In 2013, for the only time in the history of the club there were three centurions in the same innings, as Mersea beat East Bergholt 2s by 164 runs in TC7. Mersea posted 430 for 3, with career bests for Luke Bruce 143 and Luke Conway 141no, while David Taylor 116 also reached three figures. The second wicket stand of 231 by Taylor and Bruce, was 8 short of the club record for the second wicket, and the 5th highest for all wickets. Bruce and Conway put on a third wicket stand of 162, with Conway's fifty coming off 15 balls, and his century off 39. He also hit a record 15 sixes in his innings, with the team total seeing a record 25 sixes ! On any other day East Bergholt's 266-7 would have been a match winning total.
8th September
In 1951, Phillip Elias performed a fifty/fivefor double in a 9 run victory over Birch. Mersea only made 90 for 9, with Elias scoring 55, before he took 7 for 29 with the ball.
In 1984, Richard Bond took 8 for 30 and four catches, as Mersea defended 88 to beat Marks Tey by one run.
In 1991, the 1s defeated Braintree Crittals by 107 runs in D1, Louise Ian Young (51no) and Chris Hempstead (32) top scoring in Mersea's 216 for 8.
In 1996, a similar margin of victory in the home game with Elmstead in D1, Mersea winning by 103 runs after scoring 210. Stuart Mills (5 for 33) overseeing the Elmstead collapse.
In 2007, a friendly at Mountnessing saw Luke Conway (126) score a century, and Adam Rutter (63) under the windmill as Mersea posted 313 for 6. Conway alos enjoyed a 5th wicket stand of 146 with Croc Bruton, who hit a career best 34. Mersea going on to win by 113 runs.
In 2012, Neil Goodridge completed a record breaking season with an unbeaten 111 in a 35 run friendly defeat at Chappel & Wakes Colne. In 2012, Neil hit a record nine fifties and one century.
In 2013, the 1s beat Witham by 51 runs in D1 at The Glebe. Adam Rutter (55) and Matt White (52) both completing fifties in Mersea's 198, before Luke Conway took 4 for 55.
In 2015, The Glebe looked its pristine best as the club hosted a first ever international match, Norway v. Vanuatu, in ICC World Cricket League Division Six. Mersea did what it does best with the hosting of the day. On the field Vanuatu won by 4 wickets, with man of the match, Joshua Rasu (95) just missing out on a first international century at The Glebe.
9th September
In 1950, Mersea beat Abberton by 86 runs at The Brow. Winston Cock (36) top scored in Mersea's 121, before Lou Green and Phillip Elias took three wickets each as Abberton were dismissed for 35.
In 1990, Mersea won a D1 encounter with Braintree Crittals by 9 wickets. Chasing 113, Ian MacDonald carried his bat for an unbeaten 53.
In 1995, the 2s beat Tendring by 82 runs after posting 251. Dean Saunders (63), Graham Brown (41), and Darren Rumble at number ten (37) all putting in useful knocks.
In 2007, a high scoring match at Copford in D1, saw Mersea win by 28 runs. Adam Rutter (89) and Alex Young (77) put on a second wicket stand of 139, before Luke Conway (62) weighed in with a fifty as Mersea posted 308.
In 2012, Mersea very nearly got out of jail in the D1 encounter with ten man Great Bromley. Bowled out for 116, Luke Bruce returned a four over spell that saw him take 5 for 4, to reduce Bromley to 105 for 8...effectively 9. The last wicket pairing, however, managed to scrape the visitors over the line.
A debut in 2017 against Hatfield Peveral for Daniel Miller.
10th September
In 1954, Lou Green returned a club record best bowling performance of 10 for 33 as Kelvedon were bowled out for 66. Despite his ten wicket haul, he was to end up on the losing side as Kelvedon won by 11 runs.
A year later in 1955, Basil Cock 5 for 16 and Sid Vince 5 for 16, bowled Dedham out for 33, with Mersea winning by 6 wickets.
In 1989, a D1 encounter saw Mersea beat Eight Ash Green by 60 runs. Michael Cooper 61 and Kevin Hewes 43no top scoring in Mersea's 216 for 7. Martin Game 4 for 11 and Derek Wheat 3 for 42 took the lions share of the wickets in the reply.
In 2000, in D2 Mersea beat Great Bromley by 5 wickets. Stuart Mills 4 for 22 from 10 and Kevin Hewes 3 for 8 from 10, helped to restrict Bromley to 118 for 7. In reply, Mersea stuttered at 12 for 3 and 56 for 5, before an unbroken stand of 66 between Mel Hughes 45no and Graham Pryke 31no saw Mersea to victory.
In 2005, the 2s chasing Lexden's 174 were cruising at 141 for 2, with Graham Pryke (68) and Trevor Vince (38) putting on 107 for the 2nd wicket. A clatter of wickets saw Mersea slip to 169 for 7, but eventually claim a 3 wicket success.
11th September
In 1977, Mel Hughes top scored with an unbeaten 39 in 136 for 7 v. Tollesbury. Despite Percy Sadler returning 7 for 9 from 13 overs, Mersea were unable to force a win, with Tollesbury 86 for 9.
In 1983, an end of season finale to beat any other, as top of the table Mersea travelled to second place Tollesbury in D2, the winner would take the title. With rain around, the wicket had been covered, and a start was made to the game with Mersea batting first. However, the rain returned and a 90 minute delay in proceedings was to prove decisive. Mersea struggled to 96 all out in 44.3 overs, taking almost 4 hours to get through the innings. A last wicket stand of 16, between Richard Bond (15) and Derek Wheat eking out some important runs. Tollesbury began their reply at 6.10pm and were quickly on the back foot at 18 for 3, before recovering to 86 for 5. Mel Hughes taking three catches in the first four wickets to fall. The game to be there for Tollesbury's taking, with the only problem being the fading light. Mick Laver turned to Derek Wheat, and Tollesbury took six runs from his first five balls, before Derek struck with the last ball, 93 for 6. Mick Laver bowled a maiden in the next over, with just a leg bye taken..94 for 6. Derek Wheat returned and the rest was history...four wickets in four balls, all bowled to leave Mersea triumphant by two runs and champions. Some say it was dark, but I can assure you that from my position at short square I saw every ball knock back the off stump ! The game finished at 7.42pm.
In 1988, a D1 game saw Mersea beat Tendring Park by 58 runs, after posting 230 for 5. Paul Sorrell 54, Mel Hughes 47 and Stuart Mills 40no all scoring well.
In 1994, the 2s beat Coggeshall by 171 runs, with Phil Hammond 91 and Dabby Hempstead 45 top scoring in Mersea's 262 for 9. Russell Wilkin then took 4 for 10.
In 2010, James Tilsley (70) and David Taylor (67) put on a second wicket stand of 115, as Mersea scored 266 for 6 v. West Bergholt, in a 119 run win in TC Div 8.
12th September
In 1959, Lou Green picked up for 7 for 26 as Mersea beat Lexden by 111 runs.
In 1987, a D1 victory over Earls Colne by 13 runs. Mel Hughes 45 and Andy Harvey 37 top scored in the Mersea score of 161 for 5, before Stuart Mills impressed with the ball with 3 for 28.
In 1993, an abandoned game with Marks Tey, saw the 2s well placed, having posted 216 for 2. Jonathan Webb (69) and Bob Judd (84no) had put on 161 for the second wicket.
In 2010, the 1s posted 331 for 4 in D1 v. Eight Ash Green, and won by 227 runs. Daniel Harness hit a then club record 190no, and dominated a club record 5th wicket stand of 193 with Adam Rutter (39). Stuart Mills (50) also posted a half century in the game.
In 2015, fifties for Louise Ian Young (51) and Tom Sanderson (50) in a third wicket stand of 91, as Mersea posted 169 for 4 against West Bergholt 2nd in the TC. Peter Phillips (5 for 21) then claimed a fivefor as Mersea won by 83 runs.
13th September
In 1981, run out kings David Fahie (69) and Andy Harvey (53) forged an opening partnership of 131 as Mersea 2s chased down Great Bentley 2s 169 to win by 4 wickets. Seems as though their stand was pretty important with six wickets falling for 39 runs. Andrew Golding made his debut in the same match.
In 2002, Mersea beat the Dutch touring side VOC by one wicket, Michael Laver (53) and Russell Wilkin (48) top scoring in the run chase.
In 2009, the 1s made a total mess of a D1 game against Eight Ash Green. Luke Bruce (60) top scored as Mersea posted 234. Alex Young (4 for 43) then picked up four wickets as Eight Ash Green stumbled to 92 for 7, but recovered to win by 2 wickets !
On the same day, the 2s beat Great Horkelsey by 5 runs, Richard Fuller (52) and Neil Goodridge (42) top scoring in the Mersea's 192 for 7. Trevor Vince took 4 for 45 as Horkesley came up just short.
In 2014, David Taylor (99) and James Tilsley (60) put on 141 for the 3rd wicket as Mersea posted 246 for 5 against Worlingworth. The home side made a spirited response, ending up 9 runs short, as Luke Bruce (4 for 72) and Luke Conway (3 for 58) picked up vital wickets.
14th September
In a 1985 D1 match with Abberton, Michael Laver took 6 for 33 as Abberton were bowled out for 139. However, Mersea were dismissed for 87, and defeat by 52 runs.
In 1996, Mersea beat Eight Ash Green by 36 runs at Fordham Heath, Stuart Hempstead (91) and Kevin Hewes (63) putting on 147 for the second wicket as Mersea posted 248 for 9.
In 1997, another good performance in a losing cause, this time for Daniel Harness (74) out of 170 against Elmstead. The opposition cruised to an eight wicket success.
In 2003, Mersea were pushing for promotion to D1, and hosted Great Totham at The Glebe. The visitors were not too impressed by the wicket, and inserted Mersea on the 'Cabbage Patch' - their name for it..Stuart Mills, a career best 118 and Kevin Hewes (51) put on a partnership of 159, as Mersea posted 295 for 5. Eventually winning by 83 runs.
In 2008, Stuart Mills (73) again figured with the bat, in a disappointing Mersea total of 148 against Copford, with Copford easing to an eight wicket success.
15th September
In 1985, Mersea beat Birch in a friendly by 6 wickets, chasing 148. Bob Judd 57no and Mick Seeley 36no putting on an unbroken stand of 88.
In 1996, the 2s beat Birch in a D4 encounter by 10 runs. Stephen Rumble 37 and David Maiden 34 top scoring in Mersea total of 174 for 8. Maiden then picked up 5 for 26 as Birch fell short.
In 2001, a trip around the M25 to Godstone, saw a tied match. Mersea scored 201 for 8, with guest Dilip Sashan 81 and David Taylor 63 top scoring.
In 2007, a friendly encounter with Purleigh saw Mersea prevail by 26 runs, Graham Bowers (78) leading Mersea to 202-7.
In 2018, Mersea won a must a win final league encounter of the season against Melton St Audry, to preserve their D7 status. Mersea batted first and made 200 for 5, with David Taylor (58) posting a half century. MSA slipped to 95 for 7, before recovering to 187 for 8, Darren Rumble (4 for 61) and Luke Conway (4 for 62) taking four wickets each. In a dramatic conclusion, Graham Bowers claimed two close catches to see Mersea to a 11 run success.
In an end of season friendly on the same day at Chappel & Wakes Colne, there were debuts for Louis Elson and Cameron Findlay.
16th September
In 1973, Mersea beat Bures by 73 runs, Bures bowled out for 66 with Keith Salter taking 7 for 38.
In 1984, Richard Bond 86 and Terry Gander 55, shared a 4th wicket stand of 117 for the 2s, as Mersea posted 225 for 5 against Cressing 2s. John Pope then took 5 for 22, as Cressing were dismissed for 61.
On the same day a close fought friendly against West Bergholt, ended in a one wicket defeat. Mersea only posted 89, but Roy Hammick 7-30 very nearly pulled off an unlikely victory.
In 1990, Ken Brush scored an unbeaten 53 in a 123 run friendly victory over Langford.
In 2001, the 2s beat Eight Ash Green 2s by 30 runs, Graham Pryke 72 and Mel Hughes 69, sharing a third wicket stand of 124 as Mersea scored 225 for 6. Mike Srinivasan took 5 for 41 as Eight Ash Green were dismissed for 195.
17th September
Strangely enough not many games have taken place on this date. In 1949, in the last recorded game of that season, Mersea beat Kelvedon by 17 runs. Winston Cock top scored with 49, while G Smerdon picked up 4 for 67.
In 1961, a rare victory over P Smith XI - I believe was the club president and always provided opposition for the last game of the season. The Presidents side was bowled out for 141, with Bruce Cock 4 for 31 and Alan Dawson 4 for 45 picking up wickets. An unbroken 5th wicket stand of 94, between Des Carter 61no and John Borrie 36no saw Mersea home.
In 1972, a friendly victory over Bures by 7 wickets. Bures were bowled out for 76, with Michael Laver taking 7 for 34. The game also saw a debut for Bernie Sanach.
In 1988, the only league game to have been played on this date, saw Mersea defeated in D1 by Elmstead by 7 wickets. Stuart Hempstead 64 top scoring in Mersea's 160 for 8.
1994 saw the last time a game was played on this date by Mersea, with the side losing a friendly to Blackwater rivals Tollesbury by 1 wicket. Gary Conway (33) had top scored at the top of the order, before Mersea collapsed to 80 for 9. A last wicket stand of 39, between Kevin Hewes (35) and debutant, an 11 year old Luke Conway (5no) got Mersea to 119, which was almost enough.
18th September
In 1988, the 2s were beaten by Great Bentley 2s by 33 runs. Bentley had posted 162 for 5, and Mersea were well placed with Martin Cock (56) and Terry Gander (37no) putting on 74 for the second wicket. However, nine wickets fell for 55 runs after the breakthrough.
On the same day a high scoring friendly at Royal London petered out into a draw. Mersea posted 203 for 4, with Paul Sorrell 92no, while Royal London were 181 for 4 at the close.
In 1994, the 2s beat Birch by 18 runs, recovering from 49 for 7 to 128 all out. Phil Hammond (35) leading the rearguard fightback. Hammond then took 3 for 14, and John Everett 4 for 22 as Birch were bowled out for 110.
In 2011, an unbeaten 54 from James Tilsley lead a successful run chase against Great Bromley, winning by 4 wickets chasing 169.
In 2016, Graham Bowers (67) and Luke Conway (40) top scored in Mersea's NECL D3 fixture with West Bergholt, Mersea posting 207 for 9. They went on to win by 99 runs, with debutant Razza Iqbal taking 4 for 9.
19th September
In 1982, Michael Harvey took 5 for 24 against Earls Colne 2nd, as they were bowled out for 57 and defeat by 50 runs.
In 1999, a second wicket partnership of 128 between Louise Ian Young 79 and Kevin Hewes 62, steered Mersea towards 221 for 4 v. Cressing. Mersea winning that game by 50 runs.
In 2010, the 1s won a seesaw encounter with Great Bromley by 2 wickets. The Great Bromley openers put on 151, before Mersea fought back to restrict them to 216 for 9. Despite good knocks from James Tilsley 42, Luke Bruce 41 and Daniel Harness 41, it took an unbroken 9th wicket stand of 40, between James Rutter 19no and Darren Rumble 22no to see Mersea home.
On the same day the 2s suffered a mauling at the hands of Braintree College, losing by 304 runs. D Garner 218no and A Archer 203no put on 408 for the second wicket as Braintree posted 456 for 1 !
In 2015, Jon O'Regan 101 posted a career best in a friendly win over Chappel & Wakes Colne. Mersea winning by 85 runs, with guest debutant Max Oram taking 4 for 12.
20th September
In 1987, there was double friendly success. At home Mersea beat Boxted by 6 wickets, Terry Gander 3 for 21, Dave Hickey 2 for 0, Scot Farthing 2 for 5 and Shaun Mills 2 for 16 all in the wickets as Boxted were bowled out for 60.
At Wickham Bishops on the same day Andy Harvey (50) and Martin Game (30) top scored in an 80 run victory.
In 1992, a D1 game at The Glebe against West Bergholt was turned by a seventh wicket stand of 84, between Kevin Hewes 39no and Dale Wright 37, the side languishing at 71 for 6 when they came together. Mersea eventually posted 165 for 7, and won by 14 runs.
On the same in 1992, the 3rd XI were getting beaten by Tiptree United by 2 wickets. Roy Jones (54no) top scored in the Mersea score of 100. In the reply, debutants Stephen Daniels (2 for 11) and Nick Charles Mussett (2 for 12) impressed.
Another debutant in 1998 was Steven Sheldrick who scored 14 at Tendring. Mark Mahon 56, top scored in Mersea's 169 for 9, withe Tendring going on to win by 5 wickets.
In 2009, a solid all round batting performance by Mersea got them to 237 for 9 against Great Bromley. Luke Bruce 44 and Luke Conway 34 were the highest scorers, although a last wicket stand of 45no between Tony Madden 19no and Darren Rumble 22no got them up to the score which was more than enough. Bromley were shot out for 100 in reply, with Rumble (3 for 13) and Bruce (3 for 23) amongst the wickets.
21st September
In 1980, half centuries for Andrew Game (64) and Mel Hughes (50), as well as Mick Seeley (44) saw Mersea to 206 for 4 v. Grasshoppers. Michael Laver then took 4 for 3, as the Hoppers were shot out for 25.
In 1985, in D1, Mersea chased down Elmstead's 186 for 8, to win by two wickets. Skipper Michael Laver lead the way with the Performance of the Season, scoring 80 in Mersea's run chase.
In 1986, a friendly at home to Marks Tey saw Mersea win by 112 runs. Kevin Hewes (83) top scored, while Paul Sorrell picked up a career best 7 for 3.
In 1997, the 2s beat Halstead Fenns by 72 runs. Graham Pryke (59) top scored in Mersea's 205 for 5, and then Oliver Clarke picked up 6 for 33 in the Fenns reply.
In 2003, the 1s clinched promotion and the runners up spot in D2, with a 28 run win over Tollesbury. Adam Rutter (53) top scored in Mersea's 214 for 7, while Luke Bruce returned 6 for 48.
In 2008, Mersea put in a disappointing performance in the League Cup Final at Castle Park against Abberton. Stuart Mills (31), Adam Rutter (20) and Ian Young (20) the only players to reach double figures in Mersea's 116 all out. Despite the loss of an early wicket, Abberton won by 9 wickets.
In 2013, an end of season friendly at Chappel & Wakes Colne, saw Amit Tiwari (64) hit a career best as Mersea won by 6 wickets. Amit enjoying a first wicket stand of 82, with Darren Hewett (29) who also hit a career best. Victory came from an unbroken fifth wicket stand between Graham Pryke (45no) and debutant Charles Gayton (15no). Bob Robert Handford also made his debut in the same game.
In 2014, the 2s suffered a heavy home defeat...almost four years to the day (see September 19th) they lost by 304 runs again ! Stebbing were the victors this time posting 377 for 3, before Mersea were bowled out for 73.
22nd September
In 1996, Daniel Harness 101 v. Grasshoppers in D1 proved important, as Mersea slumped from 169 for 1 to 216 all out, going on to win by 57 runs.
In 2001, Mersea needed to glean five points from their final fixture against Kelvedon to avoid relegation from D2. Kevin Hewes (69) and Louise Ian Young (64) put on a stand of 121 to ensure Mersea's survival. Mersea losing by 14 runs chasing 206.
In 2002, Mersea beat Witham in D2 by 4 wickets. Jerome Leonard 3 for 26, and Alex Young 3 for 39 picking up wickets as Witham were bowled out for 157. Louise Ian Young 38no and Alex Young 30 top scored in the successful run chase.
In 2007, half centuries for Luke Conway (83) and James Rutter (60) were not enough to avoid a 127 run friendly defeat to Harwich & Dovercourt.
In 2013, in D1, Mersea beat Maldon by 5 wickets, bowling Maldon out for 133. Luke Bruce 5 for 24 was the most successful bowler, while Adam Rutter (48) top scored in the reply.
23rd September
The last game of the 1989 season saw the 1s just fall short in a run chase at Elmstead. Needing 208 to win, they slipped to 10 for 2, before Louise Ian Young 43, Bob Judd 38, Stuart Mills 32 and Derek Wheat 28, got them to within nine runs.
In 1990, the 1s beat Cavendish in D1 by 16 runs. Louise Ian Young (65) top scored in Mersea's 160, before Stuart Thomas Hempstead (4 for 38) and Paul Sorrell (3 for 23) took important wickets in the reply.
In 2000, the 2s beat Great Horkesley by 82 runs, with half centuries for John Woods 63, Daniel Harness 56 and Louise Ian Young 55 in Mersea's 242. Woods and Young put on 120 for the 2nd wicket.
In 2007, ten man Mersea beat West Bergholt in D1 by 54 runs. Labouring at 88 for 6, David Taylor (62) cajoled the tail in to getting Mersea up to 210 all out. Chris Storrar then claimed 4 for 33 in the reply.
24th September
In 1994, probably the best ever Mersea partnership in a losing cause ! Abberton scored 327 for 3, but Mersea replied with 261 for 3, as Stuart Mills 113no and Stuart Thomas Hempstead 112no put on a club record 4th wicket stand of 232.
In 2000, the 1s beat Kelvedon by 5 wickets. Mersea bowled Kelvedon out for 115, with Russell Wilkin (3 for 25) the most successful bowler. An opening stand of 50, between Kevin Hewes (28) and Michael Laver seemed to put well on their way, before a collapse, that needed Mel Hughes (29no) to see Mersea home.
In 2006, Mersea bowled out Abberton for 98, with Darren Rumble (5 for 30) and Alex Young (3 for 12) sharing the bulk of the wickets. Mersea then romped to a seven wicket victory in 13.4 overs, with Adam Rutter (44) leading the charge.
25th September
In 1994, a day after batting like a pro at Abberton, Stuart Thomas Hempstead top scored for the 2s against Marks Tey. His 39, and David Maiden's 29 were the highest scores in Mersea's 146. Despite Phil Hammond taking 3 for 46, Marks Tey sneaked home to win by one wicket.
In 2004, a close game for the 2s saw Mersea win by 3 wickets over Wormingford. Peter Phillips 3 for 32, and Michael Laver 3 for 37 were the main wicket takers as Wormingford were dismissed for 115. James Rutter made his Mersea debut in this game.
In 2005, another close match saw the 2s edge out Abberton 2s by 1 run at The Glebe. Simon Lambert 35 and Mike Srinivasan 33 top scoring in Mersea's 206 for 7.
Meanwhile at Abberton the 1s were in end of season mood, with the batting order drawn out of the hat. It backfired as Mersea slumped to 65 for 9, before an unbroken 10th wicket stand of 60 between Adam Rutter 26no and Stuart Mills 33no got Mersea up to 125-9. Darren Rumble 3 for 13, Kevin Hewes 3 for 29 and Alex Young 2 for 27 then took 8 wickets as Abberton scraped home by 2 wickets. Steve Rutter made his only appearance for the side in this game.
In 2011, the only fifties on this day came from Michael Laver 73 and Kevin Hewes 52, in a 130 run 4th wicket partnership in a drawn friendly with Rain Men.
26th September
In 1971, the cricket club beat Mersea FC by 86 runs, dismissing the footballers for 39, John Pope taking 5 for 15.
In 2004, an 8 wicket win at Abberton chasing 192. Zane Kennedy 66no and Louise Ian Young 50no putting on an unbroken 3rd wickets stand of 105.
In 2010, the 2s beat Abberton 2s by 121 runs, after scoring 228 for 7. Louise Ian Young 119 and Neil Goodridge 57 putting on 112 for the 3rd wicket.
In 2015, the end of season friendly at Chappel & Wakes Colne saw guest player Sam Blackman (98) top score in the Mersea total of 150 for 7. Chappel winning by 5 wickets.
27th September
The last game of the 1971 season against Tollesbury saw Michael Laver take his 16th fivefor of the season, with 5 for 30, to take his seasonal tally to 128. Tollesbury were bowled out for 66, but the match was abandoned as rain set in.
In 1987, the 2s beat Lexden by 65 runs. Neil Goodridge 31 and Michael Cooper 25 top scored in Mersea's 148, before Lexden was bowled out for 87, 15 year old Stuart Mills returning 3 for 4 from his seven overs.
In 1992, the 2s beat Paxmans by 5 wickets. Bob Judd 4 for 15, Dale Wright 3 for 26 and Phil Hammond 3 for 36 bowled Paxmans out for 108. Gary Conway 39 and Trevor Vince 33no lead the successful run chase.
In 2009, the 1s lost at Abberton by 104 runs. Stuart Mills figures both bat and ball, taking 4 for 67 in Abberton's 292 for 8, and then top scoring with 53 in 188.
On the same day, the 2s beat Boxted 2s by 46 runs. Michael Laver 62, lead the innings, before a 123 fifth wicket stand between brothers RIchard Fuller 87no and Dominica Fuller 37 got Mersea up to 252 for 6. Trevor Vince then took 5 for 41 in the Boxted reply.
In 2014, in an NECL D3 game at Chappel & Wakes Colne, Mersea posted 229 for 5, with Sam Blackman (119) and Louise Ian Young (49) putting on 179 for the 3rd wicket. Despite the score, Mersea lost by 5 wickets.
On this last Sunday in September, I was reminded earlier this week of the ritual September Sunday for some of us, of playing Sunday football in the morning, a short liquid lunch and then on to the earlier cricket starts (as the nights drew in)...all good fun, and then we felt the pain on Monday morning !
28th September
In 1986, the 2s beat Silver End 2s by 111 runs. John Pope (36) and Michael Laver (35) top scored in Mersea's 181. Jone Pope then took 3 for 16 as Silver End were bowled out for 70.
In 2003, the Presidents match saw Mersea win by 5 wickets. Alex Pacey took 5 for 23 as the Presidents were dismissed for 200. Luke Bruce (51) and Adam Rutter (46) top scored in the reply.
In 2008, the 1s beat Galleywood by 6 wickets. Stuart Mills 3 for 28, and Luke Bruce 3 for 44, helped bowled Galleywood out for 169. Mills then top scored with 65, as Mersea raced to victory in 22 overs.
At home the 2s were beaten by Real Oddies by 4 wickets, despite having the Oddies at 1 for 3. Michael Laver (57) top scored in Mersea's 152 for 8.
In 2019, Louise Ian Young scored 50 in an end of season friendly, which resulted in a 3 run win over Chappel & Wakes Colne.
29th September
In 1985, despite Mel Hughes (50) top scoring in 176 for 5, at home to Tollesbury in a friendly, Mersea lost to the Blackwater rivals by one wicket.
In 1991, an end of season friendly at home to Royal London saw Mersea prevail by 3 wickets. Mark Mahon (44) top scored in the Mersea reply.
In the 2002 edition of the Presidents match, Mersea lost a high scoring match by 10 runs, chasing 242. Mel Hughes (55) and Graham Pryke (42) top scored in the run chase. The match also saw Peter Phillips make his Mersea debut.
In 2018, despite Roger Goodwin (57*) making a maiden fifty for the club, Mersea lost a friendly at Twinstead by 5 wickets.
30th September
In 1979, Mel Hughes ended the season with his only career century, 101 in a Drawn friendly with COLCO. In Mersea's 173 for 5, he shared a fifth wicket stand of 122 with Percy Sadler (44no).
In 2007, the last day of the season saw the 1s travel to Chappel & Wakes Colne. Despite losing by 48 runs, Luke Conway hit two more sixes in his 15 to end the season with a record breaking 62, while his seasonal aggregate of 1100 runs for that year remains a club record.
In 2012, a relegation decider at Bocking in D1, saw the 1s prevail by 5 wickets and remain in the top flight of the NECL, and condemn their opponents to the drop. Darren Rumble (4 for 22) was the pick of the bowlers as Bocking were restricted to 153, before Adam Rutter (49) lead the successful run chase.
So there it is a season that will be like no other, hopefully the 153 days worth of many memories of seasons past will inspire you to look forward to a full 2021 season, where new memories can be made.
Thank you to all the players still playing, retired, and sadly those that have passed who have made these jottings possible, and also to the many other contributions from others, that have enhanced some of the stories.