THE top two in the Nidderdale top flight battle it out tomorrow with Newby Hall skipper Matt Uffindall eager to get one over workmate Eddie Myers when Alne make the trip south.
The two Northallerton College teachers have been talking about their top of the table clash this week with Uffindall aware another six-point win will pull them further clear in the table.
Alne are currently eight points behind Uffindall’s men but
that could quickly become 14 if Newby continue their excellent early season form.
“I work with Eddie and we’ve talked about this week and how they’re doing this season,” said Uffindall.
“We also know one or two of their players so it will be nice to have a chat with them too.
“Regardless what happens we’ll just be looking to go out there and keep the run going.
“Whatever the result we’ll still have a beer afterwards and put the world to rights.”
It promises to be an interesting fixture with the two battling for early season dominance in Division One.
Uffindall knows Alne possess the batting prowess to seriously hurt Newby with their top order in fine form with the willow this season.
The dangerous Chris Beaumont has been scoring runs for fun and Newby’s captain knows they must approach the game with caution.
“They are a good side and they’ve made a good start to the season,” he said.
“We’re all looking forward to the game and we’re sure it will be a good one.”
Uffindall is then back in action a day later when he will represent the Nidderdale side in their trip to face the cream of the Scarborough Beckett League at Staxton CC.
He is also waiting with bated breath to see if he is part of the Nidderdale League which will travel down to Lord’s for their annual fixture against the MCC at the Nursery Ground.
The game will take place on August 1 and Uffindall is hoping he can be a part of it.
“They haven’t named the squad yet but I’ve played for the Nidderdale side for the last few years now and I hope that will be taken into consideration,” added Uffindall.
Elsewhere in the division tomorrow MASHAM have a crucial bottom of the table clash when they welcome Bolton Abbey and KIRKBY MALZEARD continue their quest for survival when they travel to Pannal.
andrew.groves@ypn.co.uk
The full article contains 420 words and appears in Ripon Gazette newspaper.
