NETHERFIELD handed Lancaster their first defeat after their closely fought match.

Winning by just two wickets, Netherfield sees its first win in the new 40 over cup season, despite initial delays caused by rain at Lune Road last weekend.

The overs had to be reduced to 30, which meant each bowler were given just six overs each to bowl.

Netherfield had used its time well in lockdown to gather its side.

They had put together a considerably youthful side for their return, and even saw newcomer Oli Wileman make his debut for the team.

Joining them was Tom Anderton, Finlay Richardson, Joel Derham, as well as Samuel and Isaac Medhurst were part of the starting 11.

Also playing was Team Captain Ben Barrow, Josh Dixon, Brad Earl, Matt Jackson, and Marc Hadwin.

The team won the toss and took the chance to bowl first which reduced Lancaster to 84-4.

The track was difficult, and runs were hard to come by, but Netherfield kept up the pressure throughout the match and never let up against the known to be formidable Lancaster squad.

Samuel Medhurst was noticed as the pick of the bowlers.

He returned figures of 3-17, while Isaac Medhurst closed on a return of 2-14.

The very experienced Marc Hadwin used his well-known spin bowling skills to full affect throughout and achieved a steady return of 2-2.

The match also saw Matt Jackson pick up one wicket closing on 1-14 for his side.

Netherfield did not let these setbacks by Lancaster go unanswered.

They made a strong start after Ben Barrow and Tom Anderton posted a first wicket stand of 30.

A good starting point for their victory.

Lancaster struck back.

They saw the game briefly begin to turn in their favour once Ben Simm contributed with impressive figures of 4-26.

Unfortunately, Netherfield had begun to lose wickets on a very difficult surface where scoring boundaries were at a premium.

Refusing to let up, they increased the heat and held their nerve after a crucial undefeated knock of 13 by Isaac Medhurst helped them on their way.

After the hard-fought performances of both teams, the game had to go on into the last over.

Three balls remained when Samuel Medhurst, who was at the crease with his brother Isaac, scored the winning runs as Netherfield closed on 86-8.

By just two wickets, Netherfield tasted victory over Lancaster.

They will host Lancaster again this coming Saturday at Parkside Road, before travelling to Garstang on Sunday in The Twenty-20 group competition.

Both sides congratulated one another for their performance and look forward to their next encounters in the cup.

It was clear that their time in lockdown had not reduced the skill and dedication any of the players had for the game.