At last – the waiting is over for Godmanchester

GODMANCHESTER finally recorded their first East Anglian Premier League win since the opening day with victory over Mildenhall at the weekend.

It was a bottom of the table clash and a fine century by Ghaffer Kazmi - making only his second appearance - swung the game in the hosts' favour.

Godmanchester won the toss and elected to bat but an all-too familiar batting collapse saw them struggling at 39-4.

But Kazmi's introduction saw Goddy turn the tables and the number five was well-supported by Craig Park (30) and the pair put on a fifth wicket stand of 64.

Paul Swannell (30) supported Kazmi well but it was the new boy who starred as he blasted 114 runs in 123 balls, including 62 from boundaries.

It was left to the tail just to stay in and support Kazmi, which they did resolutely, enabling Godmanchester to reach 240 all out at the close of their innings.

Mildenhall had high hopes of reaching the target and securing a much-needed win but got off to a bad start when they lost their openers cheaply.

A wicket from Goddy skipper Bevis Moynan and a run out left the visitors with an uphill struggle.

The Mildenhall batsmen did begin to edge their way back into the match but the introduction of Godmanchester's off spinners slowed the rate.

Paul Swannell took two vital wickets and prevented any visiting batsman from recording a half-century.

David McCallum was busy working his way through the middle order at the other end and finished with his best EAPL haul of 4-43.

Mildenhall's last wicket partnership remained at the crease for 25 minutes, trying to force the draw but opening bowler Paul Wilkinson returned to take the final wicket.

Swannell with 2-52 and Moynan's 2-50 completed the wicket-takers as Mildenhall slumped to 191 all out, losing by 49 runs.

Godmanchester claimed 28 points to Mildenhall's seven to give them some much-needed breathing space at the foot of the division.