The runs slow as Downham Stow 4th lose at home to Norwich Association of Mayalees 2nd

Sam Gilbert hit a brilliant ton as a youthful Downham Stow 4th side fell just short against Norwich Association of Mayalees 2nd at the Memorial Ground.

The game proved to be a high-scoring and entertaining encounter after the visitors won the toss and chose to bat first on a flat pitch that offered plenty of value for shots.

Opening bowlers Hooton and Cooper toiled hard in the early stages, with Oliver Cooper eventually breaking through by jagging one back to bowl the opener.

Unfortunately, Downham Stow were dealt an early blow when Rob Hooton suffered an injury and was unable to bowl for the remainder of the match.

Mayalees capitalised on the short-handed attack, playing positively throughout the innings.

Despite a few missed opportunities and some debatable umpiring decisions, Downham Stow managed to take wickets at intervals.

Simon Brooking (3-52), Hayden Page-Hayes (2-38), and Jonny Williams (4-42) were the standout bowlers as Mayalees posted a strong total of 281 all out.

In response, Downham Stow began their chase steadily, with both Edwards and Brooking getting starts before falling in quick succession.

This brought together the young duo of Joe Allen and Gilbert, who built an impressive partnership.

With intelligent running and controlled stroke play, both batters passed fifty, keeping the required rate in check.

Allen was eventually dismissed for an excellent 61, edging behind just as the run rate began to climb.

This brought Jason Porter to the crease, who, alongside Gilbert, launched a spirited counter-attack.

Porter struck a couple of towering sixes into the gardens, while Gilbert anchored the innings superbly, bringing up a brilliant century.

With the game in the balance, a couple of late wickets saw Downham Stow fall agonisingly short, finishing 10 runs adrift after 45 overs.

Notably, 13-year-old Will Eagle provided a memorable moment, launching the shot of the day - a six over extra cover - to the delight of a growing crowd of returning DSCC players.

Despite the narrow loss, it was a performance full of promise and character from a young and developing side - a hugely encouraging sign for the future of the club.