Stanford’s 1st XI match against West Essex was called off due to a water-logged pitch. Nathan Shearer, the club’s overseas player this year, returns to Australia this week and the club would like to thank him for his contribution this year and wish him well for the future.

The team finished in mid-table this season, but were encouraged by some promising performances from younger players who stepped up to the mark, such as Kevin Smith, who found his form again, bowlers Daryl Woodford and James Drain and batsmen Luke Dennis and Sean Barker. As always, Ross Poulton made significant contribution with bat and ball and skippered the side at the latter end of the season. Hopes are high for improved performances next year and a real challenge for promotion.

Southend on Sea II 204 – 6 (52 overs) Stanford II 153ao (41.5 overs)

Both teams came into this match, still harbouring hopes of promotion. However, Billericay’s win against Ongar rendered the outcome of the game meaningless. Mindful of the weather, Southend chose to bat and began with real intent. Speer (86) ensured the score rattled along between 5 and 6 runs per over, along with the much more reserved Humby (69no). At 20 overs, the visitors were 120 for no wicket and Stanford had lost their grip of the game. However, Luke Dennis removed the dangerous Speer and Andy Powley (5-47) slowed the Southend charge to a crawl. Humby stayed to the end, but Southend were grateful to get to the 200 mark by the end of there 52 overs.

Stanford’s reply began solidly enough, as Powley (30) and fellow opener Mark Knight (18) added 50 for the first wicket. Thereafter, young Matthew Higgins (52) played an almost lone hand as he battled vainly to bring the side to within reach of the total, as Horne (5-30) found plenty of help in the sticky pitch.

Southend on Sea won by 51 runs.

The 3rd XI match against Chingford 4th was abandoned after only 1.3 overs as the heavens opened. This confirmed that Chingford would join Stanford as they both drop to Division 1 next year.