Russell Lane has been in good form with the ball recently
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Finchampstead CC edge away from danger
By Ben FisherAugust 08, 2012
With Finchampstead desperate for points against fifth-placed Amersham in Division 1 on Saturday, the hosts came up with the goods, securing a welcome 25 points following a stunning 81-run win.
Teetering precariously near the drop zone prior to the game, the victory lifted Finches up to sixth, stretching the gap between themselves and second-from-bottom Henley 2nd to 18 points.
Electing to bat first, Finches started poorly in the good conditions.
Both openers Matt Jones and Russell Lane were bowled with just 24 on the board, but a good innings from Gary Loveday ended at 92 when he played on for 46.
This brought together a fine batting partnership from Dan Marles and Dan Lincoln, who saw the score progress to 159 before Lincoln was well caught off a skier.
Marles (81) was then well assisted by Simon Bell as the pair ensured a sound total of 223-9.
Finches gained the start needed as both openers Rob Viney and Joe Shuttle were back in the pavilion with 12 on the board.
But Amersham fought back before losing two more wickets with 79 on the board, both falling to seamer Lane.
With 25 more runs added, the visitors were six down as Lane took two more.
The innings was then in dire trouble at 116 with Lane taking his fifth wicket by a second fine catch by wicketkeeper Simon Bell.
A good innings from Chris Owen was brought to an end by spinner Matt Harper, and with Harper and Simon Hards then taking the final two, Amersham were all out for 142.
Lane returned a fine 5-33 with two for Hards and Harper as Finches recorded a much-needed win.
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