Victors Two relegated … Victors One title hunting

Victors Two have been relegated to the first division once more after they lost on first innings to the News Spartans in the lone fixture of the National Lotteries Authority Premier Division last weekend, played at the Sion Hill Playing Field.{{more}}

After being dumped into the pits of the lower division, as a result of placing last in the Premier Division in 2011, Victors Two responded manfully by taking the first division title in 2012, and the right to return to the top flight of local cricket in 2013.

But, despite some reinforcement, Victors Two felt the grind and were hit with another demotion.

With the odds heavily stacked against them, Victors Two knew from the outset it was improbable they would get an outright win, plus bonus points.

And, when they were dismissed for 114, batting first, the inevitable was evident.

Nicholas Baptiste top scored with 45, as the spin and pace combination of Teron Simon, 4 for 18 and Dawnley Grant, 3 for 16.

Left-handed opening batsman, Gidron Pope then hit 65, to lead Spartans to 133 all out in response. Dexter Small took 4 for 20, bowling for Victors Two, who were 57 for 4, when a heavy shower brought the heavenly tears that closed their chapter in the premier division for this year.

However, some members of the Victors Two team chose to drown their sorrows with some beverages.

But, the Victors clan is keeping hope alive, as Victors One will be attempting to topple Team Rivals in the race for the top premier division place this weekend at the Arnos Vale Two Playing Field.

Originally set for last weekend at the same venue, the match was postponed last Friday.

The wait is just as sweet, as Team Rivals are on 108 points, while Victors One trail on 102.

Both teams weigh in with several current and former national players, which should make the encounter more interesting.

Victors One’s trump card, batsman Donwell Hector, has been having a good season, having scored three centuries thus far, while the well balanced Team Rivals will be looking to their bowling ace, off-spinner Olanzo Jackson.

The other premier division match pits Police Two versus LIME Radcliffe at Sion Hill. The matches are set to begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. on Sunday.(RT)