RAMSBOTTOM wicketkeeper Tom Parton says they only have themselves to blame for missing out on lifting the Holland Cup for a second season.

Rammy needed a win to secure second spot in the Lancashire League – a position they have held all season behind champions Burnley.

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But their batting frailties showed up at the worst possible time, as they were all out for just 72 at Nelson, who reached the target fairly comfortably.

“We should have really ensured that we finished second, but Sunday probably sums up our season as a whole really,” said Parton.

“We’ve been quite a weak batting side throughout the year.

“Apart from our professional Daryn Smit, who has had an exceptional season, the batters – myself included – haven’t performed as required and that was exposed on Sunday.

“We didn’t apply ourselves on what was quite a tricky wicket when 120-130 would have been sufficient.”

But Parton believes they can only learn and improve from this year’s experience, and come back stronger for the 2016 Lancashire League campaign, when they hope to have the services of the South African for a third year.

“My understanding is Daryn has signed and agreed to come back next season, which is great news for all concerned,” he said.

“We’ve got a young batting line-up. One of the opening batters, William Turner, is only 15, and Brad Fielding, who batted at three, is only 15. I’m one of the most experienced senior players at 20.

“I’m not using our age as an excuse – we’re more experienced than our ages suggest, but hopefully next year will be better.”

The season may have finished but there will still be plenty of activity at Ramsbottom Cricket Club this weekend as it hosts the fifth Ramsbottom Festival.

And Parton says it has become a vital fundraiser for the club.

“It’s a great event each year,” he said.