AFTER recording their first league win at Highfield the previous Monday, Sutton were brought back to earth with a bump by high-flying Caldy at New Street on Saturday.

Batting first against the powerful visiting attack, Sutton were rolled over for just 79 runs with only a fighting innings of 32 by opener Dave Hodgson and a few good blows by Sean Anders and Andy Brogan worthy of mention.

The visitors contemptuously knocked off the runs in 14 overs for the loss of two wickets to Brogan. An accurate spell by newcomer Ray Foster promised better when he has something to bowl at while new keeper Barry Evans performed competently behind the sticks in an otherwise dismal home display. The seconds also lost on the Wirral but at least salvaged some Sutton pride with a fine effort. Batting first Sutton forged a century start through the reliable John Lawton who cracked another splendid half-century. A welcome return to form by Brian Wearden saw him bat right through the innings for a super 68 n.o. while stand-in skipper Stu Rimmer (24) and Dave Ashurst (18) made hay at the other end. Sutton declared at 186-3 but the home side are equally strong in their batting and set off in pursuit of the target. Wickets fell regularly to Mike Toole (2), Rimmer (2) and Eric Lanchin (2) but the runs flowed regularly and with just seven balls to go, the home side took the win .

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